The fishing season in the Aegean Sea reopened on September 1 following the end of the annual hunting ban. However, what should have been a period of abundance turned into disappointment, with fishermen struggling to catch enough fish to support their livelihoods. Many have expressed concerns about their ability to break even.

Mehmet Aksoy, head of a fishermen’s association in İzmir, confirmed the distressing situation. “We have 50 large boats under our association, but the low yields are making it impossible to cover costs,” Aksoy said. He noted that vessels operating near Kuşadası are bringing in only around 100 cases of anchovies per trip, far below market demand and barely enough to offset expenses.

Environmental changes are exacerbating the problem. Rising sea temperatures are forcing fish to migrate to deeper waters, which affects the reproduction of smaller species. The warmer water also leads to oxygen depletion, a significant factor in recent fish die-offs in the inner Gulf of İzmir.

The fish deaths, first observed on August 20, led to a temporary ban on fishing in the inner gulf. Authorities ruled out poisoning as the cause, instead pointing to oxygen depletion. Several fish markets have since ceased purchasing from the affected areas.

Aksoy also addressed public concerns, especially after rumors linked fish die-offs in the Black Sea province of Rize to İzmir’s catch. “We want to reassure the public that we are handling dead fish responsibly and not discarding them into the sea,” Aksoy emphasized.

Despite the struggles, fishermen remain hopeful for better weather and improved conditions, as they continue to monitor the situation closely.

Source: Hürriyet Daily News

The post Fishermen report sharp decline in fish stocks amid pollution appeared first on Fethiye Times.

Türkiye is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary ancient landmarks, which greatly enhance the cultural significance of their respective regions. Among these, two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World stand out: the Temple of Artemis in Izmir and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus in Bodrum. These remarkable sites not only enrich their surroundings but also offer visitors a journey through thousands of years of history.

Temple of Artemis: A Sacred World

Situated in the ancient city of Ephesus, within Izmir’s Selçuk district, the Temple of Artemis was a marvel of the ancient world. Ephesus, known for its political and commercial importance in antiquity, was also a significant religious hub, with the Temple of Artemis as one of its most revered monuments. Although only remnants of this once-majestic structure remain, it was famed for its architectural brilliance and artistic grandeur.

Constructed around 550 B.C., the temple featured 127 massive columns, each standing 18 meters (59 feet) tall. Over time, some of these stones were repurposed in the construction of other historic buildings, including the St. John Basilica and Hagia Sophia. Artifacts uncovered from the temple’s site are now displayed at the British Museum and the Istanbul Archaeological Museums. Walking through the ruins of the Temple of Artemis feels like stepping back in time, with the ancient stones exuding a mystical aura. As the sun sets, the ruins are bathed in stunning red and orange hues, creating a breathtaking visual experience. Beyond the temple, Ephesus is home to other significant landmarks, such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theater, and the Temple of Hadrian.

Mausoleum of Halicarnassus

Bodrum, with its picturesque coastal vistas, is home to another of the Seven Wonders: the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Built in 353 B.C. by Queen Artemisia in honor of her husband, King Mausolus, this monumental tomb is celebrated for its architectural and artistic magnificence. Rising 45 meters high and composed of four tiers, the Mausoleum was adorned with sculptures crafted by some of the era’s most renowned artists. Its design, blending Greek and Egyptian architectural styles, symbolizes the grandeur of Mausolus and the enduring love of Artemisia.

Although much of the Mausoleum was destroyed by an earthquake in the 15th century, the remaining fragments have been preserved in an open-air museum at the original site. The exquisite marble used in its construction reflects the aesthetic sensibilities of the era, while the tomb’s scale highlights the advanced engineering capabilities of the time. Visitors can explore these remnants to gain insights into ancient daily life and beliefs.

A short walk from Bodrum Castle to the Mausoleum offers breathtaking views of Bodrum’s natural beauty. As you wander through the ruins, you can sense the poignant love of Queen Artemisia and the legendary rule of Mausolus. Exploring the surrounding archaeological sites and museums provides a deeper appreciation of the region’s rich history.

Both Izmir and Bodrum offer captivating glimpses into the ancient world, seamlessly blending historical grandeur with the modern charm of Türkiye. These cities not only take you on a journey through time but also offer a profound understanding of Türkiye’s invaluable cultural heritage.

Source: Daily Sabah

The post Timeless treasures: exploring Türkiye’s ancient wonders in Izmir and Bodrum appeared first on Fethiye Times.

Türkiye’s third-largest city, İzmir has been an important Aegean port since ancient times, when it was known as the Greek city of Smyrna; its seafront is as fetching and lively as any in the world. The city’s rich and fascinating heritage reflects the fact that it has been the home of Greeks, Armenians, Jews, Levantines and Turks over the centuries. Today, the city still enjoys its small but culturally-colourful Jewish and Levantine communities – and its unique and delicious cuisine attests to this. Its monumental history and delightful sea towns make Izmir one of Türkiye’s must-see places – one you should definitely add to your holiday list.

Here are some of the coastal towns of Izmir:

Çeşme

The biggest and most famous of the beach resorts around Izmir, Çeşme is an essentially Turkish resort and thermal spa (Çeşme means ‘spring’), dominated by its 14th-century Genoese fortress with a labyrinth of twisting back streets behind. The attractive promenade is lined with restaurants. The long, sandy beach where most of the hotels are concentrated lies a little outside the town.

Özdere

A beautiful corner of the Aegean, Özdere is a coastal town in the Menderes district of the Izmir region. With a temperate climate, favourable location and nearly 40-kilometre-long coastline and blue-flag beaches, Özdere is a local centre of tourism.

The promenades and walkways along the shoreline host numerous taverns, shops and restaurants that cater to visitors.

Bergama (Pergamon)

The laid-back market town of Bergama is the modern successor to the once-powerful ancient city of Pergamon (Pergamum). Unlike Ephesus, which heaves with tourists year-round, Pergamon is for the most part a site of quiet classical splendour. Its ruins – especially the Asklepion and Acropolis – are so extraordinary that they were inscribed on Unesco’s World Heritage List in June 2014, the 999th site in the world (and the 14th in Türkiye) to be so honoured.

The thermal springs of Pergamon made the city one of the principal centres of healing and beauty. One of the major thermal spas of Pergamon is within the Sanctuary of Asclepius (Güzellik Ilıcası). It is believed to have been commissioned by King Euamens of Pergamon, and its healing and beauty properties were enjoyed by Cleopatra.

Alongside its historic and cultural heritage, Bergama is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Trekking along the route to Kozak Plateau through the pine forests covering the Kozak mountain range between Bergama and Ayvalık, dotted with ruins and rural landscapes, also provide opportunities for photo safaris.

Urla

38km from Izmir, Urla is situated in the centre of the peninsula bearing the same name. The Urla Peninsula prides itself on its 40km coastline, untouched small bays and 12 islets.

Urla has a very Aegean ambience with its small squares, coffee shops under the vines, village bazaars and restaurants serving delicious and healthy Aegean cuisine.

Liman Tepe is an archaeological excavation site not to be missed when visiting Urla. Liman Tepe, whose history goes back six thousand years ago, is recorded in history as the oldest settlement in the Urla district. It was one of the harbours of the Ancient Klazomenai City, and among the most significant harbour cities in the Aegean in the 3^rd millennium B.C

Foça

Named after the seals that live on the islands surrounding the city, Foça (Phocaea), refered to in the Legend of Homer, was established by Aeolians in 11^th century BC. 

Very well placed for access to Izmir airport, this pretty fishing village has a lively harbor front with excellent seafood restaurants.

Foça offers a unique combination of historical, natural and urban preservation sites and many parts of the district are under strict environmental protection, due to the value of the flora and the fauna, and the beauty of the small bays and coves. It is also home to the endangered Mediterranean monk seals. 

​Dikili

Dikili, located 120km north of Izmir, ia a lovely district appealing to local and foreign visitors alike and is famous for its spas.

There are thermal spas in Nebiler, Bademli and Kocaoba villages. The Port of Dikili provides international transport by sea and is a major source of income for the local communities.

The sub-district of Çandarlı, is a well-developed town and an important tourist resort with its rich history and extraordinary beauty.

Natural attractions include a crater lake in Merdivenli village and pine forests and historical caves in Demirtaş and Deliktaş villages.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our look at some of Izmir’s coastal towns. Next time you’re planning a visit to Izmir, why not give yourself time to visit one and see for yourself …

Sources: Daily Sabah/Lonely Planet/Turkey Home/Wikipedia

This article was first published on 28 July, 2018

Other articles you may enjoy

The post Enjoy the best of the Aegean – visit Izmir’s coastal towns appeared first on Fethiye Times.

Did you know that Izmir – or Smyrna as it was called in ancient times – was founded by the legendary female warriors, the Amazons, and was the inspiration of the poet Homer?

Attractively situated on the hillsides that line the sweep of the bay, today’s Izmir is a major port and Turkey’s third largest city – modern and cosmopolitan with lively and colourful suburbs, an enchanting coastal road, natural beauty, rich cuisine and a heritage spanning thousands of years.

Make yourself comfortable and have a look at what Izmir has to offer with Mick and Trudie.

To see more videos by Mick and Trudie, subscribe to their YouTube channel: Mick and Trudie

Follow Mick and Trudie on Facebook: Mick Amca (and Trudie)

Follow Mick and Trudie on Instagram: mickamca_andtrudie

The post The very best of Izmir with Mick and Trudie appeared first on Fethiye Times.