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Foça

Foça

Foça (Phocee, Eskifoça) is a seaside town to the north of Izmir. In ancient times it was recognized as an Ion settlement and was named Phocaea due to the Fok (monk seal) that lived in the surrounding area. The word Phocaea later became Foça.

Foça is home to many historical as well as touristic places of interest. The Siren rock faces that were mentioned by the famous historian Homeros in Greek mythology are also found here. This rock face was also once the subject of many rumours by the sailors that passed them.

Foça is found in the area known as the ‘Turkish Riviera’ which stretches from Mersin to Izmir and is therefore a popular stop off point for the Gullet tours as well as for other excursions.

The combination of nature, sea, and fishing boats as well as the remains of Ottoman houses and various other civilizations all help to enforce the impression of Foça resembling a Mediterranean town rather than an Aegean one.

Whilst in Foça you should try its famous fish dish which is served with special yoghurt as well as fabulous salads that are prepared with cress and radish. Don’t forget to have a look at the Siren rock face from Homeros’ odyssey and the caves in which the monk seals live. Not forgetting Beşkapılar (five gates) which are found along with the castle annexes on the most dazzling beach in Foça.
Walking from Kybele open air temple towards Beşkapılar has become a daily ritual for many people who enjoy keeping fit.
Visitors should also go to see Şeytan hamamı which is a famous family grave from 4th century B.C that was made by carving into the rocks.

Izmir

Izmir is Turkey’s third most populous city and a centre for fairs and congresses making it a modern portal city.
With thermal centres, beaches and a beautiful seaside, the west of Izmir stretches out to Çeşme peninsula. Also found in Izmir is one of the Ephesus which is one of the most famous cities in ancient history. During the Roman Empire, Ephesus was one of the largest cities in the world.
Izmir is a lively, cosmopolitan city and also holds an important place with regard to art festivals and international fairs. This Aegean district is famous for its quality olives, meals which are prepared with this olive oil and delightful meze. You can also find examples of Jewish, Greek and Armenian cuisine amongst the menus in Izmir.
Besides the Aegean’s delicious fish, you can also enjoy salads prepared with crayfish, spinach, arapsaçi and nettles.
One of Izmir’s most famous dishes is stuffed artichoke with olive oil. Another popular dish is Lokma (doughnuts in syrup) which has become well known all over Turkey.
Last but not least is the ‘kumru’ sandwich which is toasted on special bread and filled to bursting point.