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Kusadasi, which means "bird island"Kusadasi, is set in a superb gulf in the Aegean region of
Turkey and is known for its turquoise sparkling water, broad sandy beaches,
bright sun and large marina with a capacity for 600 boats.
The glorious ancient city of Ephesus stands beside it,
with over hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
The town is not far from Adnan Menderes Airport, Izmir (only 80 km).
Numerous holiday villages and hotels line its shores and hundreds of
restaurants serve food from all around the world and of course
Turkish Cuisine, which is one of the largest cuisines of the world.
We must not forget discos, bars, cafes, pubs and "Turkish Nights"; all these to cater holiday-makers.
Beaches close to town tend to get crowded during summer. If you prefer more serenity, head for Dilek Peninsula
National Park, known locally as Milli Park about 28 km (17 miles) from Kusadasi.
Güvercin Adasi (Pigeon Island)
This tiny island off the west coast of the town is just a few hundred meters from the mainland,
and connected by a walkway. The island has a fortress, which was constructed by the Ottomans and
restored and strengthened in 1834. Kusadasi was an important defensive port along the Ottoman Aegean
coast, and the fortress helped prevent attacks from the islands. It is now a relaxing place with
landscaped terraces and several teahouses and snack bars. Its romantic setting includes a
well-maintained flower garden which surrounds the restored 14th or 15th century fortress.
Housing a restaurant and disco frequented by lovers or those hoping to find one by the night's end.
Kale Ici Mosque
Located in the center of Kusadasi is the Kaleici Mosque. It was built by Okuz Mehmet Pasa in the
17th century, and is the most impressing and monumental mosque in Kusadasi. Constructed in the area
of 1800m2, the mosque has a 550 person capacity. The main part of mosque is square-planned and covered
by a large leaden dome with the supports of 12 arches. Inner parts of the dome are ornamented by
geometrical designs and plant motives. The entrance door is an example of the best Ottoman
wood- working and is with mother of pearl. Between the 16 stained-glass windows, are the oil
paintings decorated with Ion styled columns.
Ephesus
Ephesus, the most renowned of the ancient towns founded in the Ionian region in Western Anatolia,
is located on the south of Izmir's Selcuk County. It is considered as one of the most important
centers not only in Western Anatolian civilization but also in the history of word civilization.
The ruins of Ephesus take on a value and a special significance among the innumerable sites of an
archaeological interest: this is due to its inestimable artistic patrimony, its enormous
heritage of history and culture, and the inexhaustible beauty and charm of its archaeological site.
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