Daphne Harbiye A Tranquil Retreat
Situated in the Defne district of Hatay, Daphne Harbiye is renowned for its picturesque waterfalls, nestled just 10 km away from Antakya. Originating from springs in the valley’s southern region, the cascading waters eventually flow into the Orontes River. Once celebrated for its cascades during the Hellenistic and Roman eras, Daphne was a globally recognized leisure destination adorned with opulent mansions, temples, and entertainment venues built by affluent patrons. Today, it is revered for its delectable appetizers, locally crafted chipped stone souvenirs, cocoon breeding, and silk production.
Antakya Catholic Church A Beacon of Tolerance
Found on Kurtuluş Street in Antakya’s city center Exploring Hatay’s Rich Heritage, the Antakya Catholic Church occupies a converted monastery within an old Antakya residence. Granted special permission by the Ottoman sultan in the 19th century, the church boasts a 600-year history. Serving as one of the pillars of the tolerance triangle alongside a mosque and a synagogue, it symbolizes harmony and coexistence among different faith communities.
Hatay’s Scenic Plateaus Nature’s Haven
Hatay boasts a diverse array of plateaus that beckon travelers seeking respite from the summer heat. Among the notable plateaus are Guzelyayla (Sogukoluk) in the Belen district and Batiayaz Plateau in Samandag district. Other scenic spots include Firmz Plateau in Serinyol District, Atik Plateau in Belen, Nergizlik Plateau, Qataloluk Plateau, and Alan Plateau in Iskenderun, as well as Gulcihan and Topaktaş Plateau along the Iskenderun-Arsuz road, and Karincali Plateau in Erzin. These idyllic settings offer ample opportunities for picnicking, camping, and leisurely nature walks amidst breathtaking landscapes Private Tours Balkan.
Hatay Archaeology Museum Preserving Ancient Heritage
The Hatay Archaeology Museum, inaugurated in 2014 and situated in the Maşuklu Neighborhood of Antakya, stands as a testament to the region’s rich historical legacy. Renowned for its vast collection of ancient artifacts, the museum is often referred to as the Mosaic Museum due to its extensive mosaic exhibits. Visitors can marvel at relics dating back to the Hittite, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, unearthed from archaeological sites such as Harbiye (Daphne), Antakya, Atpana, Samandag, and Iskenderun.
