An idyllically serene resort bathed in warmth
and surrounded by the natural beauty of southern Turkey, holidays to
Kalkan are most often based around the golden sand beaches and the
plethora of first class restaurants in the town. Listed by The
Independent as one of the top tourist destinations of 2007, described
by the Sunday Times as a viable alternative to Tuscany or the Dordogne
and praised by The Guardian as being like ‘…the Italian Riviera minus
the poseurs’, it is deservedly regarded as a uniquely charming resort
of international reputation.
But Kalkan is not a purpose built tourist destination, and can lay
claim to more centuries of history than most other resorts in Europe.
Beyond being a leading choice for romantic or family holidays, Kalkan
is a living example of Turkish heritage.
Beginnings
Kalkan has always been based around its harbour, one that has been
utilised since at least Roman times. As a safe shelter for ships
passing along the coast between Ka& #351; and Fethiye, the region
was often visited by travellers seeking respite from rough seas. It is
no accident that ‘Kalkan’ is the Turkish word for ‘Shield’. Equally,
its harbour and secluded bays have offered a perfect hiding place for
pirates seeking to ambush good laden merchants who would have passed
by.
Growth of Settlement
Around 200 years ago the modern town of Kalkan began to grow into
the settlement that we see today. Populated by both Greek and Turkish
peoples the town became a key port for the Ottoman empire. Goods were
transported by camel from the surrounding Xanthos valley and ferried
from Kalkan (or Kalamaki as it was known) to the far reaches of Ottoman
control. These goods included Olive Oil, Cotton, Silk, Wine, Lumber and
Grapes. Silk and Olive Oil, two of the most attractive of these
products, are still produced in the town today, the Mulberry trees used
to manufacture silk quickly becoming familiar to anyone on holiday in
Kalkan.
20th Century Fade and Re birth
Following the Turkish War of Independence, 1923 saw an exchange of
population whereby the Greek citizens of Kalkan were resettled, many of
them to new villages surrounding Athens. The remaining inhabitants of
Kalkan began to drift away in search of work when the improved road
systems in Turkey rendered their port obsolete. However, the 1960’s
brought a change of situation that altered their fortunes. Just as the
town was about to disappear from the maps it was rescued by the arrival
of rich English yachtsmen who came to indulge in leisurely pursuits and
to holiday in Kalkan. Their wealth allowed the town to enjoy a
resurgence with tourism as its main source of income.
Kalkan today is controlled by many planning restrictions which
ensure its continuation as a real Turkish town that is funded by
tourism, not a tourist resort altered by the whims of international
demand.
Visitors are attracted to holiday in Kalkan by the 300 days of
sunshine a year, the charm of the local people and the luxurious
facilities offered by the many hotels and restaurants. It is a resort
that provides a peaceful haven today as it has done for hundreds of
years before.
About the Author:
Shereena Lingiah is the Marketing Manager for Anatolian Sky, a
specialist travel company that can tailor make the perfect holiday in
Kalkan (http://www.anatoliansky.co.uk/Home/Turkey/Holidays-in-Kalkan.aspx) for you. They provide holidays to Turkey and North Cyprus, including the entire Anatolian region.
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cozy posted on May 18, 2009
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