Manavgat is the second largest town in Antalya province, covering an area of 2,283 square kilometers. It boasts a magnificent waterfall, known as Turkey’s Niagara, located on the Manavgat river, which is Turkey’s most consistently flowing river. Turkish visitors not only enjoy the breathtaking waterfall, but also the cool atmosphere that surrounds it, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.
Manavgat is also home to one of the Turkish Riviera’s most popular holiday resorts, Side, which attracts millions of tourists from all over the world.
LOCATION
Manavgat is located 52 kilometers from Antalya airport and is bordered by Sütçüler and Derebucak to the north, Ibradı, Akseki, and Gündogmus to the east, and Alanya to the west. To the south, it is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, with a 64-kilometer coastline. Getting to Manavgat is very easy as there is a well-built highway from Antalya.
The town’s population is approximately 75,000, with an additional 165,000 living in the surrounding villages. The area is one of the most densely populated settlements in the region due to the favorable weather conditions and the abundance of touristic opportunities.
HISTORY
According to recent research, Manavgat’s history dates back to the 11th century BC, when it was first settled as one of the Greek colonies near present-day Side. Hittite cuneiform inscriptions indicate that the area was referred to as Pamphylia. In the 6th century BC, King Croesus of Lydia ruled the area until it was later invaded by the Persians, who occupied it for about three hundred years until the time of Alexander the Great.
In 334 BC, Alexander the Great liberated the entire area, but after his death, his generals divided the empire, with Pamphylia, Lycia, and upper Phrygia being given to General Antigone. However, another general, Seleucid, later captured the region and became the king of Syria.
In 188 BC, following a naval battle over Rhodes around Side, Pamphylia was annexed to the kingdom of Pergamum by the Roman senate. The Roman period began in 133 BC, when the kingdom of Pergamon was bequeathed to Rome by Pergamene King Antiochus III. In 78 BC, the Roman general Pompey established permanent sovereignty of Rome over the region by defeating all of the pirates in Pamphylia.
In 33 BC, Marcus Antonius gifted the region to Cleopatra as a wedding present, and it was ruled by the Egyptians for a brief period. However, Augustus annexed the region to Rome after winning the victory over Marc Anthony and Cleopatra. During the Roman period, from 27 BC to 192 AD, Pamphylia was one of the most significant sources of income for the Roman Empire, due to its natural resources, agricultural products, and the supply of slaves.
At the end of the 4th century AD, when the Roman Empire split into two, the region fell under the control of the Byzantines and became an episcopal see of Christianity. In the 7th century AD, the area was ravaged by Arab raids, resulting in the destruction of all the monuments. The pirates from Rhodes also caused significant damage to the Roman monuments during the medieval age. In the 12th and 13th centuries AD, Seljuk Turks arrived and settled in the area as nomadic tribes to tend to their thousands of flocks of sheep and goats. The Karamanlids, Hamids, and Teke Turkish states ruled the region until the Ottoman period in 1462, when Mehmet the II conquered the Mediterranean region. Manavgat then became another naval base in the area after Alanya. In 1923, it became one of the towns of Antalya province.
MANAVGAT RIVER
The Manavgat River boasts the distinction of being the world’s longest underground river, fed by a single source. It is home to a variety of fish and bird species, including trout, carp, chub, perch, tench, hen, duck, goose, and kingfisher. The river is surrounded by a diverse range of flora, including willow, sycamore, poplar, and mulberry trees. Tourists can also spot freshwater turtles basking on logs during boat trips along the river. The riverbanks are lined with fertile lands covered in citrus orchards and greenhouses. Two dams, the Oymapınar and Manavgat, are located on the river to generate electricity for the region and provide irrigation for crops. The water in the river is crystal clear and rich in minerals, with a distinctive turquoise hue. Boat trips along the Manavgat River have become a popular attraction for both local and foreign tourists in recent years.
MANAVGAT WATERFALLS
The Manavgat Waterfalls are indeed a beautiful natural wonder and a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The waterfall is formed by the Manavgat River cascading down from a height of about 3 meters, creating a picturesque scene surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees. The sound of the water falling and splashing against the rocks is quite soothing and refreshing.
The area around the waterfall is also home to many wild animals such as turtles, rabbits, and various bird species, which add to the natural charm of the place. There are also several souvenir shops and restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine. The picnic areas and walking trails around the waterfall provide a great opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of nature and enjoy a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
At Tour Maker Turkey, we are passionate about helping travelers discover the beauty of Turkey, and Manavgat is one of the hidden gems of this stunning country. With its long history, rich culture, and stunning natural landscapes, Manavgat offers visitors a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
We offer a variety of tours to Manavgat Antalya, tailored to meet the diverse needs and interests of our clients. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, we have the perfect tour for you. Our knowledgeable and experienced guides will take you on a journey through time, sharing fascinating stories and insights into the rich cultural heritage of this region.
Our tours include visits to the ancient ruins of Side, boat trips along the Manavgat River, and exploration of the stunning Manavgat Waterfalls. You’ll have the opportunity to sample the delicious local cuisine, shop for unique souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the Turkish people.
We take care of all the details of your trip, ensuring that you have a stress-free and enjoyable experience. From airport transfers to hotel accommodations, we handle everything, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your vacation.
So why wait? Book your tour to Manavgat today and let us take you on a journey of a lifetime. Contact us at Tour Maker Turkey to learn more about our tours and to start planning your dream vacation in Antalya Manavgat. Let us help you create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime!