Mersin: 30 May 2008 to 1 Jun 2008

Mersin, Turkey’s largest port on the Mediterranean, has much to offer visitors: inviting natural beaches and excellent diving opportunities, a wealth of archaeological sites and museums, a colourful fish market and, of course, excellent seafood.

As in most of the Mediterranean, this region has been ruled by a series of powers, including Rhodians, Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, Hittites and Romans. Nearby Tarsus hosted Mark Antony and Cleopatra on her royal barge, and later was the site of one of the earliest Christian churches in Asia Minor as well as the birthplace of St. Paul. Remnants of many of these eras may be found in Pompeiopolis, Soloi and Silifke, as well as Tarsus itself. Visit the Ataturk House and Museum in Mersin, in a beautifully restored 19th -century mansion. The nearby caves known as Heaven and Hell may also be of interest to those with the stamina to climb down (and up!) several hundred limestone steps.

Excursions:
PANORAMIC DRIVE TO TARSUS

EXPLORING ANCIENT SETTLEMENTS

LOST CITY OF OLBA