Meditteranean Travel Destination: Eski Datca

Sun, shore, and seafood. These are three things attracting travelers to Datca. But don't be fooled. This paradise in Turkey is more than a haven for nature lovers. It also treats you to a delightful serving of a rich history.

Ask any traveler who has been to Datca and they'd tell you your trip to this town is incomplete without a stop to the famous Eski (Old) Datca. This historic gem is a small village perched above the more developed and modern areas of Datca. It draws its warmth from the old stone houses that line its narrow cobbled streets.

This is the very reason why Eski Datca makes for a fine visual treat for architects. Besides preserving the old materials with which the houses are built, most doorways have carvings that are like no other.

A Stay in the Past

While several cities in Turkey boast of unique hotels and bed and breakfasts, there's nothing like staying in an authentic Greek old house in Eski Datca. You'll find that a lot of owners of these historic structures rent out their homes to visiting travelers.

By staying in one of these old houses, you get a closer look at some of the finest Greek architecture in history. You also get to experience more the country feel of this exotic town. This is not unlikely with the canopy of trees hovering over the cobbled streets and the almond groves and azure coves just nearby. Now you don't have to wonder why the famous Turkish poet Can Yucel had a home in Eski Datca and was able to weave such remarkable poetry.

Silk by the Shore

The rich tradition of Eski Datca in visual arts is not only celebrated through the antique architecture in the area. If you stay a bit longer, you might get a glimpse of the finest silk created in the whole of Turkey. Yes, you read that right. Carpets are not the only premier goods you can lay your hands on in Datca.

Unknown to many people, Eski Datca is the sight of Datca's rich silk tradition. In fact, the name Datca used to mean sericulture. While for many years, the art of silk-making was forgotten by locals, efforts are being made by the government to revive this tradition.

Silk was so much a part of the culture of Old Datca that it plays a vital role in marriages before. It is said that girls at the age of marriage were presented with dowry that usually consisted of silk shirts, bed sheets, jackets and fabrics. Most dowries contained 20 to 40 pieces of fine silk. The number of silk shirts dowered to a bride-to-be is given particular attention during a dowry exhibition. The more silk shirts she received, the greater the admiration and respect she earned.

History Meets Modernity

If you think Eski Datca is all old stones and fine silk, think again. Just a stone's throw away from this tranquil hamlet is a feast of modernity. From restaurants, bars and eateries to antique shops, a grocery market and an art gallery, you can satisfy both the shopper and art enthusiast in you in this town. Where else can you find such a stunning contrast than in Eski Datca, the bridge to the impressive past of Datca?