# Sunken City of Kekova (Batık Şehir) — The Submerged Ancient Town of Turkey
The Sunken City of Kekova is the underwater ruins of the ancient Lycian town Dolchiste, submerged during a 2nd-century earthquake, viewable by boat tours.
A massive tectonic shift and earthquake caused a significant portion of the island's coastline to sink under the Mediterranean, creating a mesmerizing underwater archaeological site.
Submerged Ruins and Regulations
Viewing the Sunken City is done from the decks of tour boats, many of which are equipped with glass viewing windows in the hull. As boats cruise slowly along the northern shore of the uninhabited island of Kekova, visitors can spot stone staircases leading down into the turquoise depths, foundations of houses, ancient public baths, submerged doorways, and fragments of pottery.
To protect this fragile archaeological site, swimming, snorkeling, diving, or anchoring directly over the ruins is strictly prohibited. The only place on the island where swimming is permitted is Tersane Bay (Shipyard Bay), where you can swim around the remains of a Byzantine church and ancient harbor walls.
Stop at Kaleköy (Simena)
Most Kekova boat trips include a stop at the charming, road-free village of Kaleköy (ancient Simena). Perched on the hillside, it is topped by a Byzantine/Medieval castle built on Lycian foundations. Inside the castle lies the smallest stone-cut theater in Lycia, and in the waters below stands a famous, isolated Lycian sarcophagus which has become the symbol of the region.
Practical Information
- Location: Kaş region, Kekova Island and Kaleköy village, near Üçağız and Demre
- Road: Boat only. Good asphalt roads lead to the departure harbors of Üçağız (35 km from Kaş) or Demre (45 km from Kaş). Boat tours can also be booked directly from Kaş Harbour.
- Infrastructure: Tour boats have restrooms and kitchens. Kaleköy and Üçağız villages feature seaside restaurants, toilets, guesthouses, and souvenir shops.
- Entrance: Viewing the Sunken City from the boat is free (included in the tour price, typically €30 to €55 per person). Entry to Simena Castle in Kaleköy is about 200 TL (free with Museum Pass Türkiye).
- Tip: Choose a clear, calm day for your boat tour; when the sea is calm, underwater visibility is at its best. In Kaleköy, be sure to try the famous homemade goat milk ice cream, especially the fig and cactus fruit flavors.