- 22.07.2022
Kusadasi History
In 1413, Kusadasi came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire of I. Mehmed (Çelebi). After this date, the city began to fill with Turkish artworks under the control of the Ottomans. Mehmet Pasha built the caravanserai and the fortress walls of Kusadasi. At that time, the walled city could be entered only through the gates of the fortress walls, of which there were only three. Today, only one of these gates remains, which separates Barbaros Hayrettin Paşa Street from Kahramanlar Street. The upper part of this gate was used as a regional traffic management office in the past.
Guvercinada (Pigeon Island), which served as an important military base for the Byzantines, was extensively renovated in 1834, during which the famous castle was built. Kuşadası (with the literal meaning "bird island") derived its name from Guvercinada.
Kuşadası was occupied by Italy and Greece between 1919and 1921 during the War of Independence and liberated from army invasion on September 7, 1922, during the same war under the command of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. Today, Kuşadası proudly celebrates September 7 as its Independence Day.
Endemic Plants
Aydın Ölmez Flower
The distribution area of the Aydın-Olmez flower is only Kuşadası in our country, and it is an endemic species found only in this region. It grows on calcareous soils near the sea. It is a perennial herbaceous species with a flowering period of 4-5 months. It is one of the most important medicinal plants. The tea prepared from the flowering parts of the plant is used as a diuretic, for the removal of kidney stones, against allergic skin diseases, bilious diseases, and migraine.
Kusadasi Tüllüşahı
The species was introduced to the scientific world from Kusadasi, taking its name from Mount Samson (formerly Mykale) on the Dilek Peninsula. According to IUCN, it is an endangered (CR) endemic plant.
It is locally known as Aydın Gaşağı, Tüllüşah and Delice Artichoke. In our country, it is common in Kuşadası and Muğla cities. It is a perennial, semi-herbaceous species. Its flowering period is between the 6th and 7th months, and it is usually found in dry shrublands and calcareous bushes, as well as on roadsides at altitudes up to 300 m above sea level. It can be used in the landscape. The plant has medicinal properties, and it is said that the substances extracted from it are used in cancer research.
The valley where this rare plant species grows is a unique must to see for all nature lovers.
Yakalı Çan Flower
Flowering time is in the 5th to 6th month. Generally prefers rocky areas and walls, edges, and edge surfaces. It is a good landscape plant. It is an endemic species for Kuşadası and its surroundings.
Peony
The peony is one of our most important endemic species. In our country, it grows in southern and western Anatolia at an altitude of 1800 m in forests, along streams, and in moist soils. The flowering period is in the 7th month. It is one of the most important species that can be used for landscape works.
Dilek Peninsula – Büyük Menderes Delta National Park
Dilek Peninsula - Büyük Menderes Delta National Park, located in the coastal springs from the Mediterranean Sea to the Caucasus Delta, is generally a garden like any other; it has breeders with a wealthy fish population. Moreover, 209 species of birds can be observed in this rich ecosystem. The area is also one of the most important breeding grounds of the endangered Crested Pelican. In addition, the globally imperiled Lesser Cormorant lives here.
It has been recognized as a "Flora Biogenetic Reserve Area."
This astounding natural wonder, where all the colors of nature meet with the crystal clear waters of the sea, the sight of the size of the swimming fish, and the thoughts of the spirits in the face of the colorful fauna, will be experienced comprehensively.
Zeus Cave
The Zeus Cave is located within the boundaries of Guzelçamlı, known in ancient times as Panionion, and was the meeting place of the federation of the 12 city-states of Ionia. Zeus Cave, located in this important ancient center, takes its name from the mythological sky god Zeus. It is said that the mythological goddess of beauty, Aphrodite became beautiful after swimming in this cave. According to another myth, the mother of the prophet Jesus, the Virgin Mary, also visited the cave of Zeus on her journey from the island of Samos to Ephesus and bathed in its waters. For this reason, it is believed that the water in the cave of Zeus has a beautifying effect on women's skin.
Zeus, the god of heaven, sought refuge in this cave whenever he escaped the wrath of his brother Poseidon; he waited there until his brother calmed down, rested, and took a bath in the cave water.
The cave, which looks like a natural pond in a rock, is 60 meters long, 20 meters wide, and 10 meters deep. The average temperature in the cave is 5 degrees Celsius all year round. The water in the cave comes from small outlets in the rocks and changes very slowly. In the cave, it is freezing in summer and warm in winter. The cave water contains no living things and has no taste.
The Cave of Zeus awaits you in all its natural splendor and legendary setting. Please watch your steps in the cave, because the path is very slippery.
Öküz Mehmet Pasha Caravanserai
The caravanserai looks like a small castle. The rooms are lined up around the large courtyard. It has been restored in different periods and is in good condition. At the northwest and southeast corners, two stairs lead to the upper floor from the back. The entrance of the caravanserai is in the north, and its marble door is closed with an arch.