Simena (Kaleköy)

This is an ancient Lycian city on the coast of Kekova Bay in the Turkish province of Antalya. Founded as far back as the 5th century BC, it was once a busy harbor and now a tiny village with world-famous status.

In the II century, there was a good shake here: earthquakes and tectonic landslides lowered part of the coast below sea level. Since then, the ruins have been half submerged.

The fortress with the smallest known Lycian theater for only 150 seats, rock tombs and sarcophagi in the shape of boats - sailors believed that this is how the soul would swim to where it needed to go. The sunken sarcophagus near the shore is perhaps the most photographed place in the entire bay.

Through the neighboring village of Uchaiz, from where a concrete road was laid in 2009. There are no hotels here, only private guest houses, so budget modestly for overnight stays.

The permanent population is up to 80 people, so don't expect crowds of locals. There is an elementary school and basic amenities, but the format is quiet and intimate.