Samandağ & Seleucia Pieria

Samandağ and Seleucia Pieria offer one of the richest combinations of archaeology, early Christian heritage and Mediterranean coastal scenery in the Hatay region. Located southwest of Antakya, the area was closely connected with ancient Antioch and played an important role in trade, defence and religious history. One of the most remarkable monuments is the Titus Vespasianus Tunnel, an extraordinary Roman engineering project near Çevlik. Construction began during the reign of Emperor Vespasian and continued under his son Titus. The enormous rock-cut channel was designed to divert floodwaters away from the harbour of ancient Seleucia Pieria and protect the settlement from sediment and seasonal flooding. Close to the tunnel are the Beşikli Cave and Rock Tombs. Carved into the limestone cliffs, these ancient burial chambers contain a series of rock-cut tombs arranged around monumental interior spaces. Their unusual architecture and proximity to the Roman water system make them one of the most atmospheric archaeological sites around Samandağ. Seleucia Pieria Ancient City was founded during the Hellenistic period and served as the principal harbour of ancient Antioch. Its position on the Mediterranean connected the region with major maritime routes, and the city later remained important under Roman and Byzantine rule. Today, remains of harbour structures, defensive walls, public buildings and other archaeological features can still be found across the area. Nearby, Çevlik Beach stretches along the Mediterranean coast beneath the slopes of the ancient city. Its long shoreline and open sea views make it a popular place for walking, swimming and enjoying the coastal landscape after exploring the archaeological sites. Further inland, Vakıflı Village is known for its traditional village atmosphere, stone houses, orchards and distinctive cultural heritage. Surrounded by citrus and olive groves, the village offers visitors a peaceful contrast to the monumental archaeological sites along the coast. Another important religious site is Saint Simeon Monastery, associated with Saint Simeon Stylites the Younger, an early Christian ascetic who lived in the region during the Byzantine period. The remains of the monastery stand on elevated ground overlooking the surrounding landscape and reflect the importance of the area as a centre of pilgrimage and monastic life. Together, the Titus Vespasianus Tunnel, Beşikli Cave, Seleucia Pieria, Çevlik Beach, Vakıflı Village and Saint Simeon Monastery reveal the remarkable diversity of Samandağ. Roman engineering, ancient maritime history, Christian heritage, village culture and Mediterranean scenery make the area one of the most rewarding excursions in Hatay.