The History of Kalkan, Turkey — A Ture Escape

Kalkan holidays are most centred around the golden sand beaches and the town’s variety of first-class restaurants, which are bathed in warmth and surrounded by the natural beauty of southern Turkey. It is correctly regarded as a uniquely charming resort internationally, having been named one of the top tourist destinations of 2007 by The Independent, described by the Sunday Times as a viable alternative to Tuscany or the Dordogne by the Sunday Times, and praised by The Guardian as being like “…the Italian Riviera without the poseurs” by The Guardian. So, apply for your Turkish visa online and behold the history of Kalkan with turkeyvisaonline.com.

On the other hand, Kalkan is not a purpose-built tourist attraction and can boast a more extended history than most other European resorts. Kalkan is a living symbol of Turkish tradition and a popular destination for romantic or family vacations.

Beginnings

Kalkan has traditionally been centred around its harbour, which has been in use since the Roman era. The area was frequently patronised by tourists seeking refuge from the high seas as a haven for ships sailing along the coast between Kaş and Fethiye. It’s no coincidence that the Turkish word for the shield is ‘Kalkan.’ Similarly, its harbour and quiet beaches have served as ideal hideouts for pirates looking to ambush goods-laden sailors passing through.

Growth of Settlement

The present town of Kalkan began to expand into the community that we knew today some 200 years ago. The city, populated by Greek and Turkish peoples, became an important port for the Ottoman empire. Goods were carried from Kalkan (or Kalamaki as it was known) to the distant limits of Ottoman authority by camel from the neighbouring Xanthos valley. Olive oil, cotton, silk, wine, lumber, and grapes were among the products. Silk and Olive Oil, two of the most appealing of these goods, are still manufactured in Kalkan today. The Mulberry trees used to make silk soon become familiar to anybody visiting the town on vacation.

20th Century Fade and Re-birth

The year 1923, After the War of Independence in Turkey, the Greek residents of Kalkan were relocated, with many settling in new communities around Athens. When Turkey’s better transportation systems provided Kalkan’s port outdated, the surviving residents began to migrate away searching for a job. However, in the 1960s, conditions changed, and their fortunes changed as well. The presence of wealthy English yachters who came to enjoy gentle activities and holiday in Kalkan saved the town just as it was about to vanish off the charts. Their treasures enabled the city to resurge, with tourism serving as its primary source of revenue.

Today, Kalkan is regulated by several planning limitations that safeguard its survival as a genuine Turkish town supported by tourism rather than a tourist destination subject to the whims of worldwide demand.

The 300 days of brightness a year, the charm of the locals and the excellent amenities given by the various hotels and restaurants all lure visitors into spending their vacation in Kalkan if they have turkey visa. It is a resort that continues to provide a tranquil sanctuary, as it has for hundreds of years.