To the west of the Kapidagi Peninsula on the shore of the bay bearing its name sits Erdek, a
holiday center. Zeytinli Island, the harbor, its ancient city Kyzikos known until the '50s as
Belkis, disappearing olive groves and fish. Erdek Gulf bound by Seyitgazi Tepesi and Tavsan
Island to the southeast is a popular holiday resort due to its beaches, calm sea and mild climate.
Erdek is one of the oldest resorts in Turkey. This sub-province enjoys a pleasant spring climate in April and May, and the busy tourist season begins at the end of June. After mild days and calm sea in the early summer months of May and June, it generally receives strong northeasterly breezes for a few days into July. September and October are calm again, foreshadowing milder weather and the first rains. In November the southwest wind brings promised rain and cool days.
The Gulf of Erdek is best viewed from Seyitgazi Tepesi (crest), also known as Dilek Tepesi. On
this peninsula extending to the southeast of the city referred to by Strabo as Melanos headland
are the remains of old city walls. A small tomb sits atop the peak known to the Anatolian Greeks
as Ayios Simeon, now called Seyit Gazi. Wishes and offerings are made here. It is unknown how
the name of the peak called Ayios Simeon in Byzantine Greek times changed to Seyitgazi.
|
