Antiochia (Antakya, also called Hatay) is a charming city located in the south of Turkey. Thanks to its rich history, diverse culture and stunning natural landscapes, it offers tourists its authentic origins. One of Antiochias’s main attractions is its historical importance. This city is known as ancient Antioch, which was once one of the largest and richest cities in the Roman Empire. Tourists can explore remnants of this glorious past, such as the ancient Roman bridge and the Hatay Archaeological Museum, which has an impressive collection of artifacts from the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Location
Antiochia, a populous city of ancient Syria and now the main city of south-central Turkey. It is situated near the mouth of the Orontes River, approximately 12 miles (19 km) northwest of the Syrian border and 14 miles (22 km) from the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, at the foot of Mount Silpius. The city is the capital of Hatay Province, the southernmost province of Turkey.
Mosques
Antioch has several historic mosques (the most interesting are Ulu Camii from Seljuk times and Habibi Neccar Camii, which was originally a church built by the Crusaders and then turned into a mosque by the Mamluks) and mostly 19th-century churches (including a Catholic one run by the Capuchins, nearby Habibi Camii, and the Orthodox church, with a pleasant courtyard, located at Hürriyet Cad.).
Beaches near Antiochia
Beaches (up to 30 km away):
– Cevlik beach
–Titus beach
– Cevlik beach II
– Kapisuyu beach
– Arsuz Samandag II
– Ilhan beach
– Merve beach
Popular Attractions
Hatay Archaeology Museum
Hatay Archaeological Museum is the archaeological museum of Antioch. It is famous for its rich collection of mosaics from Roman and Byzantine times.
Church of Saint Peter
The Church of Saint Peter, outside of Antiochia, is a cave church. It was carved into the side of Mt. Starius. While its date is unclear, traditions say it was founded at the beginning of Christianity. According to tradition, the church was founded in the Apostolic Era. The oldest surviving parts of the church building date from at least the 4th or 5th century. The Crusaders who captured Antioch in the First Crusade extended the church. Its façade was rebuilt in the 19th century.
Habib-i Nejjar Mosque
Habib-i Nejjar Mosque is a historical mosque in Antiochia, Hatay Province, named after Habib the Carpenter. The mosque is to the east of Orontes River. The mosque was severely damaged by earthquakes in February 2023.
Ulu Camii (The Grand Mosque)
This mosque, at the heart of Antiochia is one of the oldest mosques of the town. It was built in 1268 by the Mamluks. It has a lovely garden with citrus trees.
Harbiye Waterfalls
Antiochia is characterized by natural landscapes, as well as the wonderful “Harbiye” waterfall, which has recently witnessed a great turnout from nature lovers as well as those fleeing the summer heat. The waterfall is about 50 meters high, offering a magical panoramic view to all its visitors. The waterfall is surrounded by lush trees, with water flowing from its sides onto rocks carved like stairs, and the view of the waterfall’s flow is most beautiful in the spring and autumn seasons.
Antiochia Super Cragum
Antiochia super Cragum is a Hellenistic city in ancient Cilicia, Anatolia, at the mouth of the Lamos (or Lamus) River. The site is located on the coast, a few kilometers southwest of Erdemli in Mersin Province. Antiochia ad Cragum was built on a mountain slope, right next to steep cliffs going straight to the Mediterranean Sea. Between the promontories jutting out into the sea, there was once a huge port belonging to the city – the source of its power and a former pirate hideout.
