Mersin

The city of Mersin is a port city in the southern part of Turkey on the Mediterranean coast. It’s also known as a gateway to Tarsus which is a nearby Christian pilgrimage site where the birthplace of St. Paul is recognized. Additionally nearby can be found Cleopatra’s Gate, which is one of the many remaining ruins of the ancient Roman empire. The Mersin Museum exhibits many archaeological artefacts and ancient sculptures from nearby burial mounds and excavations sites near the city. Mersin Turkey tourism is fantastic for heading to the beach for the great weather and taking part in the many daily activities available.

Historical sites in Mersin

Tarsus
Tarsus is famous for being the birthplace of St.Paul, and a visit there will expose the incredible cedar trees surrounding the cistern of St. Paul as well as Cleopatra Gate. This gate is a commemorative structure built for the fabled lovers Anthony and Cleopatra from the times of ancient Greece. Also found here are the resting places of the famous Lokman Hekim and Prophet Daniel. The Tarsus Museum also has many ancient artefacts on display including a collection of 30,000 ancient coins the oldest being from the 5th century BC. Justinian’s bridge is a great tourist attraction in Tarsus.

Anamur
Roughly one and a half hours drive from Mersin can be found in the lovely town of Anamur, famous for its cool climate and great traditional cuisine. The ruins of Anemorium can be found there, within a few kilometres from the town near the coast. There you can see the famed Turquoise waters that make Turkey one of the best tourist attractions in the world.

Silifke
A bit further inland from Mersin is the archaeological city of Silifke. There you can find the Acropolis from ancient Greek civilization known as Seleucia and Colucadnos. Also from Roman times can be found an ancient amphitheatre and temples. Moreover, the temple of Zeus, the Temple of Tychaion which are great for revisiting the architecture from thousands of years ago.

Beaches & Activities
There are great beaches to visit while in Mersin for you beach lovers out there. Try visiting Taskiran beach, Erdemli Plaji, or Hasanli public beach, overlooking vast mountain ranges and dense forests. If you are in Mersin on a Tuesday, it would be a good idea to visit the weekly market for the opportunity to grab some bargains on local products, souvenirs and carpentry. The weather here reaches its hottest period during July and August, at around 33 degrees celsius.