Antalya is small in terms of area; However, Finike, one of its very large districts in terms of its historical structure and natural beauties, dates back to BC. 5th century was also established. The city, which was built by the Phoenicians, was used as a port city by the Lycians. With this aspect, the district, which became the most famous trade center of the period, still has fertile lands and hosts tourists from many parts of the world.
The first place where the foundations of urbanization were laid in Finike is İskele Mahallesi. This neighborhood took the name of Pier because various loads were loaded into the water canal passing through it and sent to the port.
Since many different civilizations dominate the region, the number of historical buildings that can be examined is also quite satisfactory. Historical buildings, especially from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods, have survived to the present day and can be visited comfortably.
Limyra Ancient City (Limyra Ruins)
Transportation to the ancient city, which is approximately 6 kilometers from the town center of Finike, can be made by following the Finike - Elmalı road for an average of 5 kilometers, and then turning right at Yuvalılar junction. The ancient city, which can be reached by continuing for about 1 kilometer, is among the popular historical structures of the region.
There are ancient theatre, mausoleum, house, church and acropolis that you can visit in the ancient city. It will be necessary to climb to the peak to examine the structures that are in a slightly steep position. The most striking structure in the city, which was founded 2 thousand years ago, is the ancient theater. The building, which was able to accommodate approximately 3700 people at the same time, has survived until today. The Lycian influence on the structures is quite high, since the Lycians ruled the region for a long time. In addition to this, visiting the ancient city, where Roman architecture is also used, will be a fruitful activity for discovering the history of the region.
Entrance to the ancient city is free of charge and there is no age restriction.
Arykanda Ancient City
The ancient city, which is about 29 kilometers from the town center of Finike, is located in Arif Village. Transportation to the city can be made by private vehicles or by minibuses of Arif Village departing from the district center.
The meaning of its name is 'the place next to a high rock', and it is accepted as the oldest settlement established in the region. According to the data obtained in line with the archaeological studies on the ancient city, the life in the city dates back to BC. It is thought to date back to the 5th century. Coins thought to belong to Kuprili and Aquwami were found during the excavations, and it was recorded that these coins point to Arykanda.
The buildings in the city, which was established on a sloping land, are arranged in layers. Examining the city can be a bit tiring because it is built on a hillside.
There are amphitheater, historical houses and structures that you can visit in the ancient city. Entrance to the ancient city, which was strategically very important at the time of its establishment, can be made free of charge.
Kafi Baba Tomb
The tomb, which is approximately 6 kilometers away from the town center of Finike, is very close to the ancient city of Limyra. You can also go to the area, where transportation is provided by following the Elmalı - Finike road in the north direction, by turning left from Yuvalılar junction and continuing straight for about 1 kilometer, by Saklısu minibuses departing from the district center.
Various events are held in June at the tomb, which is also the subject of Evliya Çelebi's Travel Book. Regarding the tomb built in the name of Abdal Musa, the narration as a judge in the region is as follows: One day, the daughter of the Egyptian Sultan fell ill. Kafi Baba, who gave his name to the tomb, sets out for Egypt with his followers. After the girl recovers, she asks Kafi Baba, the Sultan of Egypt, what she wants in return for this favor. Kafi Baba also demands that the container he has in his hand be filled with oil. If they pour the oil into the container, the container will never be filled. Kafi Baba then says 'Sufficient' and the vessel begins to fill. The tomb of the dervish, known as Kafi Baba after the narrations, was given the same name. In the tomb, which attracts attention especially by local tourists, wishes are made and prayers are read.
Entrance to the tomb is free of charge.
Kırkgöz Arch (Limyra Bridge)
The structure, known as the Limyra Bridge at the time it was founded, and now called the Kırkgöz Arch, is located on the Alakır Stream, within the borders of Hasyurt. Access to Kemer is made by following the coastal road in the east direction in the district center, turning left at the third biggest turnoff and proceeding for approximately 5 kilometers.
The structure, which is the lowest arched bridge known worldwide, is 700 meters long in total. The building, which has 41 arches on it, has a very flat appearance. This bridge with flat arches was only able to be built a few centuries after it was built. Many academics from Turkey and abroad continued to work on the building, which has an extraordinary architecture for its period. The bridge connected the cities of Rhodiapolis and Limyra during the times when the Lycians dominated the region.
The building, part of which is in ruins, can be visited free of charge.
