Konya Metropolitan Brings Historical Route into Tourism
The Governor's Office of Konya, the Governor's Office of Antalya, and the Konya Metropolitan Municipality are working together to transform the 405-kilometer-long Keykubad Migration and Caravan Route between Konya and Alanya into a tourist attraction.
Konya Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Uğur İbrahim Altay emphasized that they continue to carry the traces of the past into the future, preserve history, and lead tourism projects that are in harmony with nature.
Mayor Altay stated, "With the vision of the Seljuk period shaping this route, we aim to combine it with sustainable tourism to contribute to the economy of our region and leave a legacy for future generations. This route, which will offer a unique experience for nature hikers, history enthusiasts, and photographers, will also make a significant contribution to regional tourism. Direction signs have already started to be installed along the route, and promotional hiking tours will begin in April, God willing. We invite all nature and history lovers to experience the beauty of the region on this impressive route, where history, culture, and nature intertwine. I would like to thank the professors who contributed to the creation of the route and the supporting institutions. May the Keykubad Road be beneficial for our city and country."
Prof. Dr. Hasan Bahar, a faculty member of the Department of Ancient History at Selçuk University, stated that Aladdin Keykubad had two capitals, Konya and Alanya, and said, "We wanted to share this route with people not just in conference halls. There are historical roads from the Hellenistic period and Roman times along this route. I recommend those walking on this newly created route to continue their journey. Believe me, those mountains are waiting for you."
Archaeologist and Tourism Expert Osman Yılmaz stated that the new route is a historical corridor touched by the grandeur of the Taurus Mountains, extending from the Hellenistic period to the Seljuk era. He said, "These routes not only unite geography but also the shared memory of civilizations. As an archaeologist, I can say that these roads are the soul of Anatolia. Protecting them is the most valuable heritage we can leave for the future. This project is a time capsule for the generations to come. With the breeze of the Taurus Mountains, you will feel the excitement offered by the past and nature in your heart."
TRACES OF THOUSANDS OF YEARS OF MIGRATION AND THE SILK ROAD
The Keykubad Road, which was used by the Cilicians, Romans, and Seljuks after the Hellenistic period, is also a path that was used by the Yörüks and nomads, carrying the traces of thousands of years of history. As one of the most vibrant arteries of the Silk Road in Anatolia, this new route was not only a trade route but also a carrier of science and art. Alanya, which Alaeddin Keykubad conquered in 1221, became the gateway for Chinese silk and Indian spices to Europe. Today, the caravanserais built by the Seljuks and the stone-paved roads are bringing this ancient heritage back to life.
KEYKUBAD ROAD NEW ROUTE PROJECTS
The Keykubad Migration and Caravan Route is preparing to bring together nature, history, and adventure enthusiasts in the enchanting atmosphere of the Taurus Mountains. Currently spanning 405 kilometers, the impressive route is planned to extend beyond 1,000 kilometers and will include historical roads connecting Manavgat, Kubadabad Palace, Taşatan, Akdağ, and Kuş Yuvası, as well as Gazipaşa, Silifke, Karaman, and Konya. While exploration of the new routes continues, special paths are being prepared for cycling, motorcycling, and off-road enthusiasts.
