Iotape

Aytap (Ancient Greek: Ἰωτάπη, Iotape) is a historical port city that is 30 km-33 km, east of Alanya, located in the Mediterranean Region, Turkey. Along with Alanya, Aytap is situated in the district of the Antalya Province. Where Aytap is situated there is a long modern road that stretches along the coast between Alanya and Gazipaşa. Aytap is situated between Alanya and Gazipaşa. Nowadays, Aytap is a popular tourist place. The city is popular for camping; swimming in the natural caves; swimming and using the local beaches or if tourists come to visit the ancient ruins.

Prior to the 1st century, there is no archaeological evidence found that Aytap could have been earlier inhabited by other clans of people. The city was founded by the King Antiochus IV of Commagene, who was of Armenian, Greek and Median descent. Antiochus IV founded this settlement around 52 and named the city in honor of his late sister-wife, Queen of Commagene Iotapa, who was Queen from 38 until her death around 52 of Commagene.

Antiochus IV chose this site to establish the city, because there are 2 bays close to each other, giving shape of a natural harbor with a higher plateau for the town to be protected...