Simena Ancient City: The Silent Witness of Blue Waters
Located in the most sheltered corner of the Mediterranean, between the Kaş and Demre districts of Antalya, Simena Ancient City is referred to as Kaleköy today. Manifesting its presence as a strategic harbor city since the 4th century B.C., Simena stands as a globally unparalleled open-air museum with the heritage it safeguards both on land and beneath the water.
The greatest privilege of Simena is its status as one of the rare settlements in Turkey that, despite being located on the mainland, can only be accessed by sea (or via a highly challenging trail hike). This isolated nature has allowed the fabric of the city to be preserved intact for thousands of years.
The Kekova Specially Protected Environmental Area and the Sunken City
Simena Ancient City lies at the absolute heart of the Kekova Specially Protected Environmental Area, which spans a total region of 260 square kilometers. Registered as a first-degree archaeological site, this region stands as the most magnificent proof of how seamlessly history and nature can intertwine.
The Mystery Beneath the Waves: The Sunken City
Stretching directly opposite Simena Ancient City, the northern shores of Kekova Island were submerged under water as a result of ancient earthquakes. Submerged staircases, house foundations, and ancient quay traces that can be observed while passing over by boat demonstrate how vast a harbor network Simena possessed in the past. You can browse our Lycian Geology and Earthquakes page for more technical details regarding these underwater ruins.
The Historical Identity of Simena and the Lycian League
Although Simena was not a massive metropolis on its own in history, it held significant representative power within the Lycian League thanks to the federation it established with its neighboring cities.
- Federation Framework: Simena was a part of a sympolity federation alongside Apollonia, Isinda, and Aperlai. While Aperlai acted as the head of this league, Simena fulfilled the duty of the strategic harbor.
- Archaeological Evidence: Native Lycian inscriptions dating back to the 4th century B.C. and silver coinage discovered in the neighboring city of Aperlai stand as concrete proof of the region’s economic independence and deep-rooted past. As explored in our Lycian Place Names guide, most names in this region are a heritage from the ancient languages of Anatolia.
🏰 The Summit of Kaleköy: The Medieval Castle and the Smallest Theater
When approaching Simena from the coastline, you are first welcomed by the Roman Bathhouse, which dates back to 79 A.S. (A.D.) and was dedicated to Emperor Titus. However, the authentic spirit of the city resides at the summit.
The Smallest Theater of Lycia
Once you conquer the steep path and ancient steps leading up to the castle, a fascinating structure confronts you. Constructed by being carved into the natural bedrock, the Simena Theater possesses only 7 seating rows and a capacity of 300 spectators. With this defining characteristic, it holds the title of the smallest known theater in the Lycian region. Sitting in this theater and watching the sweeping Kekova landscape will be the most unforgettable moment of your 2026 journey.
The Heritage Within the Castle
Enclosed within the fortification walls dating from the Middle Ages are structural water cisterns, rock-cut tombs, and the remains of an ancient temple. The absolute highest point of the castle serves as a magnificent observation terrace commanding a 360-degree panoramic view of all the surrounding islands and bays.
🏛️ Three Defining Features to Know About Simena
| Feature | Detail |
| Transportation | Only accessible by sea (via boat or kayak). |
| Iconic Monument | The Lycian-type sarcophagus rising right out of the water (Turkey’s most famous photographic frame). |
| Architectural Record | Hosts the smallest rock-cut theater of Lycia, with a capacity of 300 people. |
The Sea of Sarcophagi: The Simena Necropolis
The funerary culture of Simena is spread extensively across both the terrestrial slopes of the city and into the sea itself.
- The Sarcophagus in the Sea: Standing completely alone inside the water off the shore of Simena, the Lycian-type sarcophagus has become the ultimate symbol of the city and the entire Kekova region. This monument stands as the most aesthetic physical proof of tectonic subsidence in the area.
- Rock-Cut Tombs: Along the path climbing up to the castle, you can observe traditional Lycian house-type rock tombs and their accompanying inscriptions. The sarcophagus dedicated to Mentor holds immense epigraphic significance.
Geography and Nature: At the Skirts of Turquoise
Simena stands as an indispensable stop for hikers trekking the Lycian Way. The characteristic maquis vegetation of the region, ancient olive trees, and the scent of jasmine wrapping the city during the spring months gracefully accompany your historical excursion. You can visit our Lycian Flora guide for the plant diversity of the region, and our Lycian Fauna page for the rich underwater world that includes sea turtles (Caretta Caretta) and Mediterranean monk seals.
2026 Travel Notes and Recommendations
- The Kayak Experience: If you trust your physical conditioning, kayaking to Simena early in the morning from Üçağız and paddling right past the iconic half-submerged sarcophagus is a completely unmatched experience.
- Late Afternoon Castle Visit: Prefer the hours close to sunset to climb up to the castle; the orange hue that covers the Kekova bays will leave you spellbound.
- Ice Cream Break: Shed the exhaustion of climbing those steep castle steps by enjoying the famous local “burnt ice cream” handcrafted by the village women.
🏛️ The Meeting of Blue and History
The Simena Ancient City demonstrates to us how beautifully humanity adapts in the face of nature’s raw power. Even though earthquakes submerged the city into the waters, Simena has always succeeded in maintaining its existence. Do not forget to follow the official website of the T.R. Ministry of Culture and Tourism to keep up with current preservation statuses and official events for 2026.
🏛️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I get to Simena (Kaleköy)?
The most popular method is boarding daily boats departing from Kaş or Üçağız. Alternatively, you can rent a kayak from Üçağız and reach the settlement via an enjoyable 30-to-40-minute paddling adventure.
Is there an admission fee to climb the castle?
Yes, the castle holds official status as an archaeological site, and the Museum Pass (Müzekart) is valid at the entrance. The path leading up to the castle is exceptionally steep, so wearing appropriate footwear is highly recommended.
Is swimming prohibited in the Sunken City?
Yes, because the region housing the sunken city remains along the coast of Kekova Island is a protected archaeological site, swimming and diving are strictly prohibited. However, boats pass through this area at a slow speed, allowing you to observe the ruins clearly.
What should I eat in Simena?
The homemade fruit ice creams of Kaleköy (especially the peach and cactus fruit flavors) are globally renowned. Do not forget to sample this local delicacy at the coastal restaurants at the conclusion of your tour.