- Destination Updates
- Testing the Compression Straps
- Auspicious Beginnings
- Even Old New York was Once New Amsterdam
- Accidentally in Asia
- European Capital of Culture
- Father of the Turks
- Morning in Cappadocia
- Ask an Imam
- Cleaning Up
- The Cast
- The Long Goodbye
- Our Fearless Leader
- Survivor: Istanbul Finalists
- Asia Minor Gallery
- Istanbul Notes
- Ankara Notes
- Cappadocia Notes
- Antalya Notes
- Konya Notes
- Ephesus Notes
A port city on the southern coast of Turkey, Antalya purged the last shivers from the rainy evening in Guzelyurt two nights prior. While the area has plenty of historical significance – it was founded by the Romans almost 2000 years ago – its Mediterranean beaches are rapidly turning the city into a resort destination.
The promise of downtime had great appeal. After a series of many busy days, we unwound with a trip to the hamam (detailed here) and indulged in a low-key cruise in the Mediterranean. The weather was excellent, the water warm. For much of an afternoon the biggest decision was to continue reading our books or go for a swim.
Despite all that we saw in Antalya, the one regret is that we did not get out to see the Roman theatre in Aspendos – just outside of Antalya. I heard that it is wonderful and well worth the trip. Could we have gone independently? Of course. The challenge was finding the energy. We were very tired and – truth be told – there was not anything we did in Antalya that I would have given up in order to make it to Aspendos. I guess we just have to go back.
Antalya Archeological Museum
An absolutely stunning museum. The Antalya Archeological Museum was an excellent compliment to the Anatolian Civilizations Museum in Ankara. While encompassing the entire history of the region, the jewels in this collection are the Roman statues and friezes. I continue to marvel at the skill of the artist that gives cold, solid stone the illusion of warmth and fluidity. Sitting quietly on the cold marble floor, contemporary and future artists sketch quietly – recreating these amazing works in their drawing tablet.
What excited me about this collection were the bold colors used to paint the gallery walls. While still impressive, the sculptures would not have been nearly as exciting in a museum with plain white walls. The dark blues and vibrant reds made the collection alive and exciting. The spotlights brought out the detail of each piece. (Astute observers will note the rather boring and simple styles I have used in this website. The irony of what I enjoy seeing in a museum and what I am able to create in a website is not lost on me.)
Over time, many museums and sites will run together and become an indistinct blur in the memory. This museum stands out for all the good reasons. Visit this museum if you get the chance.
This entry was posted in Asia Minor
