Ancient Greek City of Phaselis in Turkey to Implement Visitor Management Plan

The historic Greek city of Phaselis, located on Turkey's southern coast, is set to implement a visitor management plan to address issues with overcrowding. Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced the plan, which aims to protect the archaeological site, enhance the visitor experience, and ensure compliance with UNESCO regulations.

Phaselis: A Bustling Tourist Destination

• Phaselis, once a major harbour city in ancient Lycia, boasts ruins from its Greek and Roman past.
• Situated near the town of Tekirova in Antalya's Kemer district, it attracts a significant number of local and foreign tourists.
• The city's historical significance and beautiful beaches make it a popular destination, but large crowds can be challenging.

Balancing Preservation and Tourism

• High visitor density hinders ongoing excavations and potentially violates heritage protection laws, including UNESCO regulations.
• To address this, the Ministry is developing a plan within the framework of the existing cultural heritage management strategy.
• Potential measures include:
  • Designated parking areas away from the site, promoting pedestrian access.
  • Improved visitor facilities like showers, toilets, and changing rooms to manage crowds and enhance visitor comfort.

The visitor management plan seeks to find a sustainable solution, ensuring the preservation of Phaselis while allowing visitors to appreciate its rich history.

This plan is crucial not only for protecting the archaeological site but also for maintaining Phaselis's status as a UNESCO-recognized heritage site.

Read about UNESCO Sites in Greece