AYDIN
Aydin is one of the major cities in the Aegean
region of Turkey and is growing very fast. Apart from the industry,
the main agricultural products of the province are; figs, olives, strawberries
and cotton.
The ancient name of the province of Aydin was Tralleis. It was celebrated
as the center of sculpture, with a well known sculpture school. The museum
in Aydin exhibits the relics of many civilizations which have passed through
this important center in Anatolia. The remains
in the city date back to the 2nd-century A.D. while you may see many examples
of other periods in the environs of the province.
After 1186, Aydin was ruled by Seljuks
who affected architectural style of the city during
that time. The local museum of Aydin displays artifacts from that time and the
different periods of history.
A variety of fruits & vegetables is grown on the fertile
lands of Aydin province, especially figs are world known. The city is also rich
in folklore and legends. "Zeybek" is the traditional
play of Aydin and around, played with the groups of two, four, six or nine.
"Zeybek" can be played with music or not,
alternatively in slow and faster version. The man player of "Zeybek" is called
"Efe", a special name given to the courageous men in the area. The traditional
cloth of "Zeybek" consist of a tasseled fez ornamented by flowers, striped
wadded jacket. Knitted belt on the waist and gaiter on the calf are the
accessories of the traditional clothes of Efe.
Aydin enjoys a reputation for its mineral springs and spas that are serving with
their varied curing and healing properties. Aydin spa is the most famous one,
having two close and one open pools. The temperature is about 31C. There are
also different spas in Imamkoy, Germencik and Alangullu, around the province of
Aydin.
Aydin includes important historical sites
within its borders. Priene,
Miletos, Didyma,
Aphrodisias and Heraklia are the principles attracted by throngs of
visitors every year.
MENDERES VALLEY
The Menderes Valley, formed by the Menderes (Meander) river has been the
cradle of many civilizations. This region offers a variety of beauties
all at once. Lake Camici (Bafa), on the way to Bodrum,
is a secret camping spot, hidden amidst the pines, olives and oleanders
facing the five peaks of the Besparmak Mountains on the eastern slopes
on which are the ruins of Alinda. The ruins of the ancient city of Heraklia
are closer to the lake giving campers by the lake the chance to the sightseeing.
This fertile valley has sheltered many important cities of past civilizations,
the remains of which still preserve their grandeur and dignity.
