The Kekova region was declared a specially protected area in 1990 to protect the natural, cultural and geographic richness of the Kekova Islands.
The Kekova area is 260 kmē and is managed by the Turkish Ministry of Environment. Simena is a popular Lycian site, situated upon one of the most attractive spots of the Turkish coast.
The name Kekova is Turkish for "plain of thyme" and describes the region encompassing the island of Kekova, the villages of Kalekoy and Ucagiz and the three ancient towns of Simena, Teimussa and Tersane (meaning " dockyard", as its bay was the site of an ancient dockyard, with mostly Byzantine ruins).
Both Simena and Teimussa have a large necropolis. Teimussa is now the village of Ucagiz where boats set off for cruises of the area. Simena is an enjoyable place to visit for its great beauty and charm. For this reason, it is popular with Blue Cruises along Lycia's Turquoise Coast.
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