cesme
DESCRIPTION
Cesme is a seaside town with a population of 20,000 people. It resides on the Aegean coast being 85 km away from Izmir. It lies on the extreme western tip of Turkey that the Greek island of Chios can be seen. Its name is derived from Persian meaning “fountain” and it was named after the city housing many fountains on the street. In modern day, Cesme is a resort and land for the rich and elite people of the country.
Cesme is a compact and intact town making it easy for its guest and locals to access any corner of town by foot. The town has many historical and attractive beauties such as the Genovese castle for sightseeing and Inkilap Street for shopping.
HISTORY
Cesme doesn’t have much history compared to other towns and cities within Turkey, but, it still has important fragments and shards from its past. In the middle ages, the Ottoman took control of Cesme in 1566 under the command on Piyale Pasha. Years after, it witnessed battles and war such as the Russo-Turkish War between Russian and Ottoman fleets. After many battles and wars, Bosnians migrated to Cesme and soon after the Greeks seized control. The town was restored to its former wealth at the beginning of the 19th century due to rich sources of grapes and mastic.
WEATHER
Cappadocia has warm/hot summers and cold winters. Snowfall is strong during winters. Its summers are very dry and hot but not oppressive hence why the locals do not use air condition. For a month (late July to late August), the weather can hit 40 degrees. It usually rains 2-3 times a month. During winter, it can snow as early as November but wouldn’t hold till December or January. It can continue till as late as April but should ease down early March. Spring, autumn and summer are the preferred times of the year to visit Cappadocia.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Holders of UK, EU and US passports require visas. Visa’s must be obtained in advance, passengers need to obtain an e-visa prior to their arrival. This can be done online at https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ for approximately US$20. The visa is valid for a stay of up to three months (dependent on passport holder’s nationality). For a longer stay a visa from a Turkish Embassy is required.
No vaccination required
HOT TIPS
This settlement served as a church during the 19th-century for the Greek Orthodox people. It was fully restored in 2012 and is now used for temporary exhibitions.
The museum is guarded by the majestic Genoese-built fortress which dates back to 1508. It was later restored by the Ottomans in order to defend Cesme from pirates. It now houses the Museum of Cesme. You can tour around the castle and find Umur Bey tower, archaeological and historical exhibits and gravestones. The view of the fortress is magnificent as you view the sea and the sun.
Facing the sea, with tis back to the fortress, this statue shows the great Ottoman admiral (1713-90). He was sold into slavery but made his way up to being a grand vizier and was the commander of the Ottoman fleet. He defended Cesme against the Russians. He is accompanied by his pet lion which he acquired from Africa.
Cesme is a hot city in Turkey. Even during winter, it may get hot during the day. Despite all facts, we recommend you bring extra layers during your Summer vacations as it can get chilly in the night. Turkey is a Muslim and Secular country, this means you can wear whatever you want, the only exception is when you enter a Mosque, you will be required to wear long trousers and woman must cover their hair.