About Kekova

📍 Location: Kekova (in Lycian: Dolichiste) is a small rocky island located off the coasts of Kaleköy and Üçağız, near the Demre district of Antalya, Turkey. In some sources, it is also referred to as "Kakava."

📏 Area: This 4.5 km² island has no permanent residents. However, there are guesthouses and cafes on the island, and it is accessible only by boat.

⛵ Sailing to Kekova: With a sailboat rented from Fethiye Sailfleet, you have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Kekova.

⚖️ Historical Background: Following the Italian occupation, there was a period of dispute between Turkey and Italy over the ownership of Kekova. The issue was resolved by an agreement signed in 1932, officially assigning the island to Turkey.

🏛️ Ancient Ruins: On the northern shores of Kekova, you can see the submerged ruins of the ancient city of Dolkisthe, destroyed by earthquakes in the second century. The island was later rebuilt and flourished during the Byzantine period but could not sustain its development due to Arab invasions.

🌿 Protection Status: Kekova and its surroundings were declared a protected site by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry on June 18, 1990. All swimming and diving activities were initially restricted to special permits; however, in later years, the bans were lifted in areas outside of the historic sunken ruins.