Lost Cultural Heritage: Antalya Kaleiçi (Old Town), Kesik Minaret: Past and Present


Kökmen Seyirci H.

Faith tourism: Ancient Times to Present, Ankara, Turkey, 25 - 28 August 2022, pp.1, (Summary Text)

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Summary Text
  • City: Ankara
  • Country: Turkey
  • Page Numbers: pp.1
  • Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract


In Kaleiçi (Antalya Old Town), which constitutes the center of the city in Antiquity as it is today, many archaeological and cultural heritage remains of the past have disappeared as a result of natural disasters and the cruelty of time. Undoubtedly, the continuous settlement of the city has a leading role in the emergence of this result. However, the few building remains (Hadrian's Gate, Hıdırlık Tower, City Walls, Kesik Minaret, Necropolis) and the archaeological and epigraphic data unearthed in the rescue excavations in Kaleiçi provide tangible information about the city, which has hosted civilizations shaped by different religious beliefs.  A very large church was built inside the Roman Period Agora, which was partially preserved after the change in the religious structure of the city after the Antiquity. Although assumptions were made that there was a temple before the church was built in the area, the remains of this temple were not found during the researches. In addition, architectural equipment that may belong to stately structures used as spolia or scattered in the area is also remarkable. The church has a long-term usage phase, and later on, it was converted into a mosque during the governorship of Şehzade Korkut. After it was converted into a mosque, it suffered a fire in 1896, its wooden dome burned down, and after that date, it had an important place in the cultural heritage memory of the city under the name of "Kesik Minaret". With the recent restoration works, its dome has been renewed and the "Kesik Minaret" has lost its identity.

Keywords: Antalya, Kaleiçi, Kesik Minaret, Faith, Tourism