Origins of the Mevlevi Order

The Mevlevi Order traces its roots to 13th-century Konya, inspired by the teachings of the Sufi poet and philosopher Mevlâna Celaleddin Rumi (1207–1273). Following Rumi’s death in 1273, the order was formally established in Konya, then a thriving centre of art and learning under the Seljuk Turks. Rumi’s writings focused on love, inner peace, and spiritual growth. As he said: “Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.”

The Mevlevis embrace the idea of shedding worldly attachments to achieve harmony and union with God. For them, death is not an end but a celebration of this ultimate spiritual connection.

The Sema Ceremony

The Sema, the signature ritual of the Mevlevis, evolved from Rumi’s habit of whirling in ecstatic joy through Konya’s streets. Today, it represents a mystical journey of the soul’s ascent toward perfection. Dervishes can whirl for hours, their white skirts flaring as they spin, entering a trance-like state that brings them closer to the Divine.

As they whirl, dervishes raise their right hands toward the sky and extend their left hands toward the earth, symbolizing: “What we receive from God, we give to man; we ourselves possess nothing.” Their spinning reflects the rotation of the universe in the presence of God and the shedding of earthly ties.

Recognition and Celebration

In 2008, UNESCO named the Mevlevi Sema Ceremony a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.” Each year, Konya hosts a ten-day festival culminating on December 17th, the anniversary of Rumi’s death, often called his “wedding night.” Dervishes perform the Sema in circles, achieving inner peace and offering a breathtaking testament to centuries of devotion, love, and spiritual tradition.

Be mesmerised as the Whirling Dervishes whirl—a living embodiment of harmony, faith, and transcendence.

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Located in the Foça neighborhood, the Çalış Bird Sanctuary serves as both a migratory stopover during certain times of the year and a long-term home for many species.

Photography enthusiasts arrive early in the morning, blending into the landscape with camouflage clothing and setups, patiently waiting for the perfect moment. Those specifically aiming to photograph kingfishers prepare small perching branches near the water and reeds, hoping the swift birds will stop long enough to be captured in frame. In return, the sanctuary’s feathered residents frequently reward them with striking poses.

“The kingfisher is a unique bird and teaches us patience.”

Photographer Hamdi Yaman, who has been taking photographs for 20 years and focusing on birds for the past decade, told AA that the sanctuary becomes especially lively during migration season.

“In winter, we usually see white and grey herons, kingfishers, marsh harriers, and similar birds,” he said. “The kingfisher is a rather interesting and very fast bird. That’s why we place small branches for it to land on. When it lands, we take photos and videos. It’s a unique bird—it teaches us patience. If you wait long enough and remain invisible, you can get some very beautiful shots.”

Yaman added that birds perceive the presence of cameras as a potential threat, which is why photographers put effort into remaining unseen. “We set up tents or wear camouflage clothing to observe the birds without disturbing them,” he explained.

“I spend about three to four months of the year in this area.”

Photographer Şefik Akkurt, who has been photographing nature for nearly 30 years, shared his joy of spending time at the sanctuary.

“Observing the birds, tracking their movements, and capturing their beautiful poses brings me great happiness,” he said. “We have an osprey that winters here every year. Waiting all day for it to arrive relaxes me. When I go home with beautiful photos, I’m even happier.”

Akkurt said he dedicates several months each year to the sanctuary. “The kingfisher is a bird I admire. My photographer friends and I observe this swift bird here. Capturing its dive or the moment it catches a fish is one of the most rewarding experiences for a photographer. I haven’t yet captured the pose I dream of,” he added.

Determined, Akkurt said he would continue working toward achieving that perfect shot.

Photos: Ali Rıza Akkır / Şefik Akkurt / Hamdi Yaman / AA

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The seminar is being held on the Suzhou University of Science and Technology campus and will continue until November 5th. It brings together 44 participants from countries including Nigeria, Uganda, South Africa, Gabon, Ethiopia, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, Cambodia, and Sierra Leone.

Fethiye Municipality was the only institution from Turkey invited to participate, with all expenses covered by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and Suzhou University of Science and Technology. The municipality is represented by unit managers Tahir Başaran and Mehmet Kavruk, along with presidential advisor Yavuz Topateş.

Delivering the opening address on behalf of all participants at the request of the organizing committee, Yavuz Topateş said:

“Today, tourism worldwide is no longer merely an economic activity that generates foreign currency. It also plays a critical role in many areas, such as strengthening intercultural communication, building friendships between nations, creating employment, developing infrastructure, and preserving cultural heritage.

The tourism sector brings societies closer together, supports cultural diversity, and is a key component of sustainable development. With its structure that promotes local development, creates employment, and preserves cultural heritage, tourism has become an indispensable part of social life. In today’s world, digitalization plays a pivotal role in the transformation of tourism. Smart technologies, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital marketing not only improve service quality but also make the visitor experience more effective and accessible.”

The seminar series, which will conclude on November 5th, will feature a range of presentations by Chinese academics on tourism and the digital age.

Huzhou After Suzhou

Following their participation in Suzhou, the Fethiye Municipality delegation—visiting China as official guests—will travel to Huzhou, with which the Fethiye Municipal Council recently approved a sister city agreement.

During meetings with Huzhou Municipality officials, both sides will discuss technical details and future cooperation projects.

Thank you to Yavuz Topateş for the update and photographs.

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Emre, a volunteer environmentalist, has spent 45 years safeguarding the nesting grounds of loggerhead turtles along Çalış Beach and Yanıklar Beach, ensuring thousands of hatchlings make their way safely to the sea each summer. His pioneering spirit led to the development of Turkey’s first wire cage protection system for turtle nests — an innovation now used internationally, even in California.

“This cage project began in Turkey about 30 years ago,” Emre explained. “We improved the design so that the cages wouldn’t rust and would protect the eggs better. It became the most beautiful nest protection cage in the world.”

A Visionary Conservationist

Beyond turtle conservation, Emre played a vital role in identifying a 150-acre area near Çalış Beach as a key stopover for migratory birds — a haven that later became the officially registered Fethiye Bird Sanctuary in 2007. His decades of bird census work revealed the presence of over 230 bird species, making the area one of southwestern Turkey’s most ecologically valuable habitats.

“These birds have been migrating from pole to pole for millions of years,” Emre said. “Wherever they stop, that place has value. We’ve been conducting censuses in Fethiye for 35 years. This sanctuary is a breathing space — for both nature and people.”

Personal Sacrifice, Global Impact

Emre’s dedication came at a personal cost. In his first 20 years of volunteer work, he spent $40,000–50,000 of his own money on conservation activities, including supporting teams of student volunteers from the University of Vienna who joined him each summer to monitor the turtles.

Despite having no financial gain, Emre says the rewards lie in the survival of the species he protects. “I’ve been working for 35 years. I dedicated half my life to this. There was no government support back then — we managed it ourselves, and it turned out wonderfully.”

A Guardian of Fethiye’s Natural Heritage

Emre’s influence extends beyond science — his work underscores the connection between conservation and tourism.

“Loggerhead sea turtles come to Fethiye’s beaches from thousands of kilometers away,” he said. “In a survey we did 20 years ago, 22 percent of tourists said they came to Çalış to see the turtles. Without them, there’s no tourism.”

The turtles, he explains, are vital to marine balance. They keep jellyfish populations under control, contributing to cleaner seas and healthier ecosystems.

The Ongoing Mission

Today, Emre continues his volunteer work with the same passion, collaborating with Pamukkale University and the Ministry of Environment. Recent studies show around 120–150 turtle nests annually in Fethiye, producing up to 8,000 hatchlings each year.

He regularly sets up public awareness stands, teaching locals and visitors alike about loggerhead turtles, migratory birds, and the importance of protecting natural habitats.

“On-duty protection only lasts for a short time,” Emre said. “But volunteers continue the work — 24 hours a day, seven days a week. As long as I can, I will keep working for Fethiye’s nature.”

Through his tireless efforts, Ali İhsan Emre has become a symbol of grassroots conservation — a man who turned personal devotion into lasting environmental change, ensuring that both the loggerhead turtles and the birds of Fethiye continue to thrive for generations to come.

Source: Fethiye TV

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Uysal begins his day at dawn, crafting sandals and yemeni shoes to order. Outside his workshop, the neatly displayed footwear draws the curiosity of both local and international tourists, who are fascinated by the blend of simplicity, comfort, and history in each pair.

The Teke region sandal, unique to areas of Antalya, Burdur, Isparta, Muğla, Aydın, and Denizli, is deeply intertwined with Yörük traditions. Uysal is one of the last masters of this craft, promoting it at trade fairs across Turkey and abroad and traveling to Yörük Turkmen festivals to share his knowledge.

“I continue to make sandals to introduce them to today’s youth,” says Uysal. “We are Ministry artists, trying to bring our values — which are on the verge of extinction — to light. There are only four or five sandal makers left in Turkey.”

Every pair of sandals takes about ten days to make, handcrafted entirely from the back hide of an ox. Natural, durable, and even beneficial for foot and joint health, the sandals are practical for daily wear and particularly useful for mountain walks, when paired with traditional socks.

Despite their cultural importance, Uysal faces challenges in keeping the tradition alive. “The younger generation doesn’t value this craft. We face the same challenges as barbers, tailors, and tinsmiths,” he explains. Yet his passion is undiminished. In addition to full-size sandals, he creates miniature versions, which have become popular keepsakes for residents and visitors alike.

Tourists and locals alike recognize the value of his work. Sibel Dural, visiting from Ankara, said, “Those who pass on craftsmanship-based professions are very important. I wanted to buy a pair, but they didn’t have my size!”

Local resident Izzet Sülek, 70, has worn Uysal’s sandals for years. “We can’t find these anywhere else. They’re light, comfortable, and perfect for walking. When we wear sandals with socks in the mountains, we move fast. Young people should learn from the old ways.”

Through his dedication, Tunahan Uysal is doing more than making shoes — he is preserving a living piece of Fethiye’s history, one handcrafted sandal at a time.

A small workshop, a big step for tradition.

Source: Anadolu Ajansi

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Tucked away in southwestern Turkey, Fethiye enjoys a milder winter than many other regions. Towering cliffs, some reaching 350 metres, rise dramatically above the coastline, making the area not only a haven for those chasing sunlit beaches but also a playground for adventurers eager to scale heights and wander through the remnants of ancient civilizations. Nestled at the foot of Babadağ, Fethiye’s mix of natural beauty and history ensures its year-round appeal, even in the cooler months.

In winter, Ölüdeniz takes on a different magic—its turquoise waters gleam beneath brooding skies, or glow as the setting sun washes the horizon in radiant colours.

These stunning images were captured by photographers Hamdi Yaman and Şefik Akkurt, whose lenses showcase the breathtaking colours and landscapes of Ölüdeniz in winter.

With easy access, a mild climate, and plenty to do beyond the beach—from hiking and paragliding to exploring ancient ruins— Ölüdeniz (and Fethiye) remain great choices even in winter. Add them to your Turkey travel plans for a destination that delivers year-round.

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Fethiye, one of Turkey’s most picturesque coastal towns, is now being featured prominently on digital platforms across the United Kingdom and Ireland, thanks to a new collaboration with Kingfisher Publishing, a leading travel guide publisher based in the UK.

As part of this initiative, Ian David Heads, owner of Kingfisher Publishing, recently visited Fethiye and met with Mayor Alim Karaca to discuss the promotional project. The meeting was also attended by Karaca’s chief advisor, retired diplomat Yavuz Topateş, and Chairman of the Fethiye Hoteliers Association, Bülent Uysal.

The Fethiye Municipality confirmed the partnership in a public statement, highlighting the campaign as a major step in its strategy to enhance the city’s international visibility, especially in key tourism markets like the UK and Ireland. The initiative is part of a broader plan to promote Fethiye’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance to a global audience—and to support the long-term goal of making tourism a year-round economic driver for the region.

“Kingfisher has been producing travel guides since 2006 and has created both print and digital content for over 70 destinations,” the statement read. “This marks the first time they are introducing a Turkish destination in their collection, and we are proud that Fethiye has been chosen as the starting point.”

The digital guides will be distributed through hotels and luxury accommodations, as well as via QR code cards that link travellers directly to detailed destination content online. This approach ensures that information about Fethiye’s attractions is easily accessible and in line with today’s travel habits.

Mayor Karaca praised the initiative, noting the importance of embracing digital tools in tourism marketing: “We are now living in the digital age. Everything—from television broadcasts to education—is moving online. As Fethiye Municipality, we intend to harness the power of digital media to promote Fethiye to the world.”

The campaign is expected to strengthen Fethiye’s appeal among UK and Irish tourists, who already form a significant part of the region’s visitor base. By working with Kingfisher, the municipality hopes to build on this foundation and attract even more travellers seeking authentic experiences and year-round sunshine on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.

This collaboration marks the beginning of a broader project by Kingfisher Publishing to feature seven Turkish destinations in its guides—positioning Fethiye as a leading example of digital tourism marketing done right.

Discover Fethiye by scanning the QR code 👇

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Presented annually by the International Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), the Blue Flag recognises destinations that meet a range of international criteria including water quality, environmental management, safety and environmental education. Fethiye’s success this year further strengthens its position as a leader in eco-conscious tourism along the Turkish Riviera.

With this latest recognition, Fethiye has become the district with the third-highest number of Blue Flag beaches in Muğla Province, known for its rich natural beauty and pristine coastline.

Fethiye’s Blue Flag Beaches for 2025:

• Liberty Fabay
• Büyük Samanlık Beach
• D Resort Beach
• Club Tuana Fethiye
• Hillside Beach Club
• Lykia Botanika Fethiye
• Akra Fethiye Sensatori
• Sugar Beach Club
• Green Pine Beach & Bungalows
• Suncity Beach Club
• Meri Hotel Beach
• Kumburnu Public Beach
• Belceğiz Public Beach
• Liberty Hotels Lykia

The Blue Flag certification not only highlights Fethiye’s commitment to environmental standards but also supports its appeal as a premier holiday destination that balances tourism with ecological responsibility.

Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/fethiyede-14-plaj-4-marina-ve-5-tekne-mavi-bayraga-kavustu

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The Çalış Boat Cooperative has come a long way since a handful of captains started working together taking tourists out fishing in Fethiye Bay in 1987.

In the early days, there were no tables or chairs or even any onboard toilets.

But today there are over 30 vessels involved carrying thousands every summer on quality Blue Bays tours as well as running tourists backwards and forwards on the water taxis between Çalış and Fethiye itself.

These days, members have to commit to first-rate customer service for a set price. There can be no “special deals” to give one boat an edge over its marina rivals.

But there are advantages too for the captains who play a part – not least a steady flow of customers and help in emergencies.

How does it work

Each year, every boat in the cooperative is allocated a number, which is displayed on the vessel’s windscreen

Although all of the boats in the cooperative are at liberty to take private bookings of their own, passengers who enquire at the booking office in Çalış without specifying which vessel they prefer will be allocated to a boat in numerical order.

The idea is that each of the captains then gets their share of potential business without having to compete directly with their neighbours in the marina.

Naturally, if one boat is already committed to a private booking then it is omitted from the numerical list for the day.

The system doesn’t necessarily guarantee enough passengers for each boat to sail daily.

However, all those who do sail commit 60% of the money they earn from every trip to the cooperative, which then distributes the income equally between the captains.

“The boats are allowed to keep any money they make from their bar and 40% of their income also goes directly towards their own running costs – for diesel, food and so on – but everything else is paid to the cooperative and shared out,” said spokesman Ali Tuğsat, son of founder member Veli.

“It means there is back-up in an emergency; if you can’t sail because of a breakdown or because of a family problem, then you know you will still have some money coming in. But it also means everyone gets the same. It feels like one big family.”

Where does the money go?

As well as paying the captains, the cooperative also helps to keep each boat’s operating costs down. 

Should they encounter a problem when out a sea, other members will assist with recovery and repairs will be carried out by the cooperative’s maintenance partners at a lower cost. 

Members also have access to a dry dock if required, both for repairs during the summer months or for routine winter maintenance. The cooperative can also use its bargaining power to negotiate better deals for insurance.

However, a sizeable chunk of the cooperative’s income is also spent on the operation of the water taxi service, which helps to bring more custom to the area from Fethiye itself. 

The majority of the shuttle boats’ insurance bill is covered by the cooperative. Alternative vessels are also held on standby so, should one water taxi break down while on service, another is usually only minutes away.

What are the drawbacks?

Although by far the majority of captains abide by the cooperative’s regulations, it has been known for some to try to steal a march or not to play their part to the full.

For example, one boat may decide not to sail for an extended period of time and still make a claim for its share of income. If so – and if there are no mitigating circumstances – the cooperative has the right to issue financial penalties.

However, Ali says the family environment ensures by far the majority play their part to the full.

“Most know how it works,” he said. “Only two of the boats are not run by a husband-and-wife team and many have been involved for a long time. We all know our customers and they have been coming back year after year. Personally, I have been around since I was 10 years old.”

Are there any changes this year?

In 2025, the cooperative will charge a minimum of 350 GBP per boat per day, or the Turkish Lira equivalent on the day. The price includes lunch and fruit and cake in the afternoon. 

The price per day applies to a minimum of ten passengers (35 GBP per person). Additional passengers are charged at 10% of the minimum charge. 

Groups of less than 10 people are welcome to book a trip however the minimum price applies.

Prices correct at the date of publishing

The water taxi service between Fethiye and Çalış costs just 150 TL per person. 

You can read more about the water taxi below.

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Where is Gemiler Island and How to Get There?

Gemiler Island is located south of Fethiye, near the famous Ölüdeniz Lagoon. Approximately 9 km from Fethiye, the island is accessible via boat tours or private boats. Measuring just 1 km in length and 400 metres in width, the island features steep cliffs on its southern side and a more gradual slope to the north, creating a dramatic yet inviting landscape.

The History of Gemiler Island: From Ancient Smybola to Aya Nikola

During the Middle Ages, Gemiler Island was known as Smybola. By the 5th century AD, it became a key religious settlement. The island is also called Aya Nikola Island, named after a church at its highest point, dedicated to St. Nicholas.

Although St. Nicholas, the figure behind Santa Claus, is most associated with Myra (Demre), some historical records suggest that another important Nicholas may have lived here. However, his identity remains a mystery.

Archaeological Excavations and Mysterious Ruins

Gemiler Island has been a focus of archaeological research for decades. Studies began with a Japanese archaeological team in 1990 and continued with excavations led by Osaka University and the Fethiye Museum Directorate between 1995 and 2003. These efforts revealed an extensive settlement, including:

• 11 basilica-style churches

• Numerous chapels, houses, storage areas, tombs, and cisterns

• A vaulted road spanning 160 metres between two churches, believed to represent the 17 Stations of the Cross, symbolising Christ’s journey to crucifixion

Although some structures feature cut stone, most religious buildings were constructed from local stone, with traces of frescoes and mosaic flooring—many of which have unfortunately deteriorated over time.

A long wall separates religious structures on the upper part of the island from the civil and commercial buildings below. This suggests that the upper section was a sacred area reserved for religious figures.

Nearby Karacaören Island, just 150 metres away, has a chimney-like structure that was likely used for smoke signalling. This would have warned Gemiler Island and Kayaköy of possible attacks, highlighting the island’s strategic importance.

A Centre for Pilgrimage and Trade

The large number of churches and chapels in the area suggests that this was once a major pilgrimage site. Between the 5th and 7th centuries, pilgrims travelling by sea from Western Asia to the Aegean and Mediterranean likely stopped here.

During the Byzantine period, Gemile Island also played a role in maritime trade between the Near East and Europe.

Daily Life on the Island

Gemiler Island wasn’t just a religious centre—it was also home to many people. Due to its rocky terrain, houses and churches were often carved directly into the rock.

Some ruins are now submerged underwater, believed to be the result of earthquakes in 240–241 AD. You can still spot them at a depth of about two metres.

The Legend of St. Nicholas and Santa Claus

The name Aya Nikola, associated with Gemiler Island, hints at a possible connection to St. Nicholas. While the famous Santa Claus figure is most commonly linked to Myra (Demre) in Lycia, some theories suggest that an influential Nicholas once resided on the island. However, no definitive historical evidence confirms whether this St. Nicholas was the same as the bishop of Myra or another religious figure of the time.

Regardless, St. Nicholas remains an important figure in Christianity, particularly as the patron saint of children, merchants, and sailors.

Things to Do on Gemiler Island

Today, Gemiler Island is a popular destination for daily boat tours, offering a mix of history, nature, and relaxation. Visitors can:

• Explore the ruins of five ancient churches

• Walk through the historic tunnel connecting two churches

• Swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters

• Enjoy the panoramic views of the Fethiye coastline

• Experience an unforgettable night on a boat anchored in Gemiler Bay

Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of ancient pilgrims, marvelling at Byzantine ruins, or relaxing in turquoise waters, Gemiler Island is an unforgettable destination.

With its rich history, stunning scenery, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to step back in time while enjoying the beauty of the Mediterranean.

Source: Fethiye TV

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