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Altınkum is a rapidly growing resort in western Turkey, 123 km from the town Aydın. The resort is a popular tourist destination at the Aegean Sea, and in addition to many beautiful beaches there are also the ruins of the Ionian city of Didyma (Didim). Most famous of all is the ancient Temple of Apollo with the head of Medusa.

Location

It is located in Aydın Province between the city of İzmir and the resort Bodrum, with about 90 minute drive each way.

The Greek holiday island Kos is an hour's boat ride away. Samos is also nearby, and also Rhodes is in range and Kusadasi. From being a small fishing village, the area has developed into a popular tourist area. Altınkum and Didim was formerly two separate towns, but have grown together and now has approximately 35 000 residents. Approximately 5000 of these are foreigners who live here all year, most of them are British with some Germans.

History

Altınkum and Didim (Old; "Didyma") is surrounded by a number of ancient sites and also was knows as a Yenihisar many years a go. Apollo Temple is located on the outskirts of Didim. It is said that it was destroyed by King Darius of Persia, only to be recaptured and rebuilt by Alexander the Great.

Miletos and Ephesus is a short drive away, and also Meryemana - said to be the Virgin Mary's last home. Many pilgrims visit this place every year.

Local news articles

local newspaper "Altınkum Voices'(English)

local newspaper "Didim Today"(English)

Didim counts down for Turkey's largest marina(English)

Disneyland in Turkey(English)

New golf course two take Altinkum up-market(English)

Coordinates: 37°21′22″N 27°17′20″E / 37.3561°N 27.2889°E / 37.3561; 27.2889

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