Turkish Cruise Destinations

Explore the Enigmatic Sunken City of Kekova

Located along Turkey's stunning Mediterranean coast, the Sunken City of Kekova offers a unique glimpse into the past, where history and nature beautifully intertwine. Originally built on Kekova Island, this ancient city was a thriving harbor town before it met a tragic fate. Earthquakes and invasions led to the submersion of much of the city, leaving behind a fascinating underwater site. Today, visitors can marvel at the ruins from the comfort of a boat, offering an experience that transports you back in time to an era of maritime commerce, architectural grandeur, and untold stories.

Dolchiste: A Glimpse into the Past

Once a modestly bustling harbor town, Dolchiste was home to shipbuilders, merchants, and fish sauce producers. In the 2^nd century, a massive earthquake struck, submerging much of the town into the sea. Though the city was rebuilt, it was abandoned after Arab invasions. What remains today is a fascinating blend of submerged and terrestrial ruins, collectively known as the Sunken City of Kekova.

The Sunken City Today

This protected archaeological site offers visitors a glimpse into antiquity. While access to most of the island and its ruins is prohibited to preserve the site, boat tours provide incredible views of the remnants. Stone walls, staircases, and carved surfaces hint at a world long gone. Beneath the water, foundations and artifacts such as amphora fragments remain visible, particularly on calm days.

Tersane Bay: A Shipyard Turned Anchorage

Tersane Bay, located on the northwest side of Kekova Island, features ruins from the Byzantine era, including a centuries-old church. Unlike the rest of the island, this area lies outside the protected zone, making it a popular stop for boats in the region. Visitors can swim in the bay and enjoy its serene beauty, and can even access the historic structures on the small beach.

How to Visit the Sunken City of Kekova

Getting There

The Sunken City of Kekova is accessible via gulet cruises, daily boat tours, or even kayak excursions from nearby towns like Kaş, Demre, and Üçağız. While the boat tour over the ruins is brief, pairing your visit with nearby attractions, such as Simena Castle Village, enhances the experience.

Step Back in Time with Images of Kekova's Sunken City

Explore our photo gallery of Kekova's Sunken City and Tersane Bay. From submerged ruins to coastal highlights, these images capture the allure of this ancient wonder.

Click on any image to expand.

Goats scamper through the ruins of ancient buildings on Kekova Island

Stone walls built in the 4th century still standing on Kekova Island

The low walls of a submerged building can be seen along the shore of Kekova Island

Evidence of a peaked roof and slatted floor are etched into the flat stone above water in the Kekova channel

Partial stone walls and archways can still be seen on the shore of Kekova Island

Building foundations and low stone walls are clearly visible in the turquoise water at Kekova's Sunken City

Stone walls with openings for doors and windows still stand on Kekova Island

Foundation of an ancient building is clearly visible under the crystal clear turquoise water

Low stone wall is clearly visible under the crystal clear turquoise water at Turkey's Sunken City

Remains of a wall made of stone blocks with openings for doors and windows

Evidence of floors, ceilings, and roofs can be seen etched into the flat stones that once formed back walls of buildings at Turkey's Sunken City of Kekova

Partial remains of a wall crafted from stone blocks in the 4th century

Aerial view of the shore of Kekova island, including the submerged foundations of buildings, lending the name sunken city to the area

Aerial view of Kekova island and its coastline, including the submerged foundations of buildings, lending the name sunken city to the area

Aerial view of the shoreline at Turkey's Sunken City on the Mediterranean Coast near Antalya

Aerial view of the shoreline at Kekova Island's Sunken City

Aerial view of the shoreline and turquoise water at Turkey's Sunken City of Kekova

Aerial view of the shore of Kekova island showing evidence of buildings which have been submerged over time

Stone blocks forming a low stone wall with an opening for a door and window

Stone blocks forming a low stone wall with openings for a door and windows facing the former harbour area on Kekova Island in Turkey

Remains of stone buildings on the shore of Kekova Island

A small motor boat taking passengers on a tour of the Sunken City of Kekova

Two women kayak past the ruins of stone buildings at the Sunken City of Kekova in Turkey

Partially submerged stone stairway carved into the side of Kekova island

Foundation of a submerged building can be seen under turquoise water at the Sunken City of Kekova

Why Visit Kekova's Sunken City?

The Sunken City of Kekova is a testament to history and resilience, blending natural beauty with cultural intrigue. Marvel at the remnants of a thriving ancient town from a respectful distance, enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the region, and connect with Turkey’s rich past in a way few destinations can offer.

For the ultimate convenience and adventure, experience the Sunken City of Kekova on a gulet cruise to the Kekova region with Arkadaslik Yachting. Let us guide you through the wonders of Kekova and beyond, offering expert insight and exceptional hospitality every step of the way. Contact us today to begin planning your unforgettable journey!