Alanya is a seaside resort on the south coast of Turkey. It is located in the Mediterranean region, 133 kilometers (83 mi) east of the city of Antalya. In 2010, the city had a population of 98,627, while the district comprising the city and the built-up area had an area of 1,598.51 km2 and a population of 248,286.
The natural strategic location on a small peninsula in the Mediterranean Sea below the Taurus Mountains has made Alanya a stronghold for many Mediterranean governments. You will find many buildings from the Ptolemaic, Seleucid, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Especially in the Middle Ages, during the reign of Alaeddin Kayqubad I, many sights of the city owe their existence to him. Well-known buildings are: the Kızıl Kule (Red Tower), Tersane (Shipyard) and Alanya Castle.
The Mediterranean climate, natural attractions and historical heritage make Alanya a popular destination for tourism. They are responsible for nine percent of the Turkish tourism sector. They also account for thirty percent of foreign property purchases in Turkey. Since 1958, tourism has been the predominant industrial in Alanya. The urban population is also growing in proportion to this. There are also many sporting events in warm weather and cultural festivals every year. However, Hasan Sipahioğlu of the Justice and Development Party, which has led the city since 1999, was ousted by the new mayor in 2014.
