The History of Kaplankaya

THE HISTORY OF KAPLANKAYA

Kaplankaya is nestled in breathtaking natural beauty that characterizes the South Aegean coast of Turkey. A coastline stretches for six kilometers along seven bays, each with its own secluded beach. Rugged terrain crashes gracefully into the sea. Undulating hills clad in evergreens, wild olives and cypresses mimic the sea’s gently lapping waves. Folklore has always played an important part in Turkish life. Kaplankaya gets its name from a story that has been passed down through the ages by local families. Legend has it that the Anatolian Panther once lived here, sharing the region’s hills with goat herders who would lead their animals through the trees to the rich pastoral land beyond. On the verge of extinction, the panther took every chance it had to seize a meal, and from time to time goats would occasionally disappear. This area became known as Kaplankaya, or the Tiger Stones. And while the cats may be long since gone, the stories endure. It is in their honor that the Anatolian Panther became the symbol of Kaplankaya, helping the legend to live on. From the summit of Kaplankaya, 300 meters above sea level, and from every other peak on the peninsula, an endless vista of the Aegean awaits. A warm, gentle breeze mixes sweet, fragrant pine with the sea, while islands near and far, sailboats on the horizon, and soaring seagulls complete a scene of utter beauty and serenity. Each bay is a veritable amphitheatre, displaying the wonders of the surrounding nature. Wild rabbits stealing mountain strawberries, dodge and dart amongst coastal shrub. Seagulls dive for shallow fish and sea turtles crawl over sun-blasted rocks as ripe olives drop silently from weighty branches in the rolling groves. The region surrounding Kaplankaya abounds with ancient ruins and significant archaeological sites. Places of historical interest include: Ephesus - Known as the ‘first and greatest Metropolis in Asia’ Didyma - Site of the Temple of Apollo Iassos- The battle-scarred ancient town Miletus - Birthplace of Thales, considered by many as the father of Western science and philosophy. Everywhere you turn, there are places of great historical and cultural significance. A diverse mix of lively coastal towns and sleepy fishing villages highlights just one of the many contrasts of modern Turkey.

For further information, please contact:

Banu Erdoğan Marketing Communications Manager Six Senses Kaplankaya T +90 252 511 00 30 M +90 533 701 76 65 E [email protected]