From a rocky plateau a city rose. This is Kepez Belediyesi. Its name means rocky area a testament to its origins. Before urbanization a rocky plateau dominated the landscape. Antalya’s growth pushed its boundaries. Kepez became a district a municipality. Its story is one of transformation.
In the 1970s Kepez was sparsely populated. The city’s edge stopped near a building called Beyaz Bina. Beyond that lay scrubland and rocks. Buses and dolmuşes turned back there. Then came development. The area opened up for building. Çallı was the first neighborhood. Slowly more areas were developed.
Kepez’s history goes further back. It saw conflict between Seljuk Turks and Byzantines. It was part of the Seljuk realm then under the Teke Beylik. In 1389 the Ottomans conquered it. Later the Karamanids took it briefly. The Turkmen Varsak tribe settled near Kepez. Antalya became fully Ottoman in 1415. The Republican era brought growth. Kepez became part of Greater Antalya in 1993. Its district governorate formed in 2008.
Archaeology reveals more. The ancient city of Lyrboton Kome was discovered. It was a significant olive oil producer. It had close ties to Perge. The city flourished under the Roman Emperor Domitian. Its history adds depth to Kepez’s rich past.
Today Kepez thrives. Antalya’s bus terminal is here. A cement factory and hydroelectric plant operate. Despite not being on the coast Kepez draws tourists. Duden Waterfalls and Antalya Zoo are here. Kepezüstü is a popular scenic area. The large Atatürk mask in Kepezüstü greets travelers.
Kepez Belediyesi has experienced immense growth. It is now one of Antalya’s largest and most vibrant districts a blend of ancient history and modern development. Its journey from a rocky plateau to a bustling municipality is a testament to its resilience and growth. It offers a unique perspective on Antalya’s rich history and vibrant culture a truly fascinating district to explore.