MYRA – KALE – DEMRE

Though a small touristic town of Antalya province, Demre is renowned the world over, not only for its natural beauty, clear waters and the ancient Roman town of Myra, but also as a pilgrimage stop for believers to pray in the Church of St. Nicholas. Santa Claus, the name known worldwide as Father Christmas, once upon a time lived in Demre as a priest. Santa Claus, or Saint Nicholas, is the patron saint of the island of Sicily, Naples and Bari in Italy, Freiburg in Germany, and even the city of New York in the United States today.

Believers from all over the world come together in an international organization to commemorate the religious ceremonies and rituals performed in the Church of Santa Claus in Demre on December 6th every year. Santa Claus is considered a symbol of Demre and has been for centuries.

LOCATION

Demre is a small town located in Antalya province, in the Mediterranean region, 145 km from Antalya city-centre. It is bordered by Finike to the east, Kas to the south and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. The town is nestled in a land surrounded by mountains on three sides, featuring a very fertile alluvial soil carried by the Demre stream. The climate of the Demre district is typical of the Mediterranean region, with hot summers and warm, rainy winters.

TRANSPORTATION

Demre is located 145 km away from the Antalya International Airport and is accessible via a well-maintained highway. During the high season, which runs from May to November, there are scheduled buses that depart from Antalya on a daily basis at specific times. The Antalya-Demre highway is a picturesque route lined with trees that offers views of the sea and takes approximately two hours to travel. Those who choose to drive to Demre often find the journey to be an enjoyable one.

Myra has been renowned throughout the ages as one of the most significant cities of the Lycians. It is believed to have been founded during the 5th century BC and saw its height of prosperity during the Pax Romana, i.e. the period of Roman peace, between the 1st and 2nd centuries. St. Paul visited Myra prior to his departure from the Andriake harbor to Rome. During the Byzantine period, Myra served as a prominent administrative and religious centre. St. Nicholas was appointed Bishop of Myra at the start of the 4th century AD and was much beloved by the people of Myra.

Myra became a renowned pilgrimage centre for Christians, and Demre has consequently gained the attention of the Christian world. Every year on December 6th, a Santa Claus religious ceremony has become a tradition in Demre. During the Ottoman Empire, Demre was a small village known as Eynihal. In 1968, four villages joined together and were given the new name of ‘Kale-Castle’. In 2005, the Turkish government changed the name to Demre.

Demre, located in the Mediterranean region of Antalya, is a unique town with a colorful history. It is perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, the historical figure from which the modern Santa Claus legend is derived. It is also known for its ancient ruins, its charming beaches, and its traditional food. Throughout the ages, Demre has been home to civilizations ranging from the Lycians, the Romans, and the Byzantines. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of these ancient civilizations, such as the Myra Rock Tombs, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the ancient city of Andriake.

It is also home to a number of beautiful beaches, ranging from pebbly to rocky, which can be reached by boat or by car. Demre is also known for its delicious local cuisine. The fish caught from the Mediterranean sea is some of the freshest around, and it is often served in traditional dishes such as köfte (meatballs) and meze (appetizers). For dessert, visitors can sample local delicacies such as lokma (fried dough balls) and keskül (rice pudding).

Tour Maker Turkey offers a unique way to explore the beauty of Demre and its surrounding area. Our tour packages are tailored to each individual’s needs, so that each person can experience the best that this area has to offer. On our tours, you will visit some of the most famous sites, including the Church of St. Nicholas, the Myra Rock Tombs, and the ancient city of Andriake. You will also have the opportunity to take boat trips to the nearby beaches, sample local cuisine, and take part in cultural activities. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Tour Maker Turkey also offers a range of tailor-made tours to suit your needs and budget.

We offer packages that include accommodation in traditional Turkish-style homes, visits to local markets, and traditional cooking classes. At Tour Maker Turkey, we are dedicated to providing the best possible experience for our clients. We are passionate about making sure that you get the most out of your trip to Demre, and that you create memories that will last a lifetime. Our knowledgeable tour guides will be on hand to answer any questions and show you the best that the area has to offer.

So why not book one of our tours today and experience the beauty and culture of Demre for yourself?