About Kusadasi

Here's a bit info on our closest neighbouring resort of Kusadasi :

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Kusadasi, one of Turkey's principle holiday resorts, offers an excellent environment for an unforgettable holiday. Situated on the west coast of Turkey- 90km south of Izmir, Kusadasi, is reputed for one of the most attractive cities of the Aegean, as it is close to the important historical sites including Ephesus, Didyma, Priene and Miletos, the principals of ancient times.

Kusadasi has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, providing a long tourism season. The city is bathed in sunshine for 300 days of the year. Numerous powdery sandy beaches with warm and clear waters, providing a peaceful atmosphere, allow a great variety of water and beach facilities. Windsurfing, water skiing, sailing and beach volley are only a few choice for the lovers of active life.

After sunbathing restfully during the day, the city awaits the superb sunset. As the sun sets the attractive cafes and restaurants through the palm-lined boulevard get busier. The restaurants, serving a variety of fresh seafood and Aegean specialties, offer a delicious meal in Kusadasi. Dancing and entertaining at a lively bar or a disco until dawn, may end an ideal day in Kusadasi.

History

The early settlements in Kusadasi were formed by the Lelegians and Carians who moved from the central Anatolia around the year of 3000BC. They were the establishers of a colony on the skirts of Pilav Mountain in Kusadasi, and founded the cities Ania and Melia. Mild climate allowed the inhabitants to grow essential products such as olive, grape and figs for extracting oil or making wine and sweets on the fertile lands around the city.

Kusadasi began to be ruled by the Ottoman Empire after the invasion of Sultan Mehmet Celebi in the year of 1413. During the reign of Ottomans, Kusadasi was introduced to glorious structures, giving a new look to its former spectacular view. Okuz Mehmet Pasa Caravanserai, the principal of Ottoman architecture in the city, was built by the man of the same name, who was the vizier during the reigns of Sultan Ahmet I and Osman II. The fortress gates &walls and many mosques in the center of Kusadasi, as well as the citadel of the castle in Pigeon Island, were built in the Ottoman period, reflecting the architectural style of the era. "Kusadasi " that means "bird island" took its name from the Pigeon Island.

After the First World War, Kusadasi was invaded by the Greeks (1919). The city won after a long struggle and in 1922 became a part of Turkish Republic. Izmir was the capital of Kusadasi until 1954, then the capital was changed to Aydin and since then, the city of Kusadasi has shown a good deal of development, especially in tourism.

Today, Kusadasi is one of Turkey's most sophisticated holiday centers; a perfect place for vacation with its sandy beaches and glassy water. The contrast of the lively holiday life with the quietness of ancient ruins create the special atmosphere of the city.