Isparta exists in a land of fragrant roses and rose products and
beautiful lakes of peaceful waters, one of the prettiest cities in the
Mediterranean
region. Around 45% of Isparta consists of high plateaus. There are
also many impressive caves around Isparta.
If you go to Kirazlidere or the environs of Sidre, you may view this lovely site with a bird's eye. Here is the Egirdir Lake which is one of the most fascinating lakes of Turkey, extending calmly along wide forests covering the foot of the mountains behind. It is an excellent site for relaxing, while it also offers opportunities for different sports such as climbing and fishing. You can try local fish together with mezes in the restaurants by the lake. Some of other picnicking sites are Golcuk Lake (13 kms southwest from Isparta), Ayazma, Milas, Caravanserai, Altinkum Beach, Pinarpazari, Camyol, Kovada National Park and Lake, and Kasnak Forest, famous for various kinds of butterflies and its fauna.
The town of the same name, is a rarely beautiful site not only because of the charming scene the lake provides, but also with the ancient ruins decorating the land. The Ulu (Grand) Mosque of 15th century stands here with its attractive minaret, along with the Seljuk fortress and Byzantine churches. Antiocheia (Psidian Antioch), the ancient city of Yalvac and ruins at Bayat are the other monuments of sightseers' interest.
The two national parks in Isparta are the Kovada and Kizildag, which please the visitors with their natural beauties and historical remains. The Kovada Lake is made up of bays and beaches, surrounded by forests, and possesses a fresh atmosphere just like the National Park of Kizildag full of thousands of nice cedar trees.
Changing hands continuously throughout history, Isparta also holds many signs from earlier times. At the museum of the city, a rich collection of ancient coins, fine examples from Turkish folklore, several Roman relieves and works of art from the Ottoman period are found. Firdevs Pasa Mosque, Yilan Koran fountain and Kinik minaret are also spectacular monuments, while Yalvac, and Sarkikaraagac, are two other sites with ancient roots.
Isparta is also the hometown of Suleyman Demirel,
one of our presidents of the republic.
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