Adana, formerly known as Seyhan, is the fourth largest city of Turkey
situated in the middle of the Cukurova, Cilician plain, in the south close to
the Mediterranean Sea. The precious waters of the River Seyhan run through Adana
making the area very fertile. This has ensured the importance of the city
for centuries amongst its many civilizations dating back to the Hittites and
Hittitian Empire.
The name Adana originates from the mythological founder of the city, Adanus,
the son of Kronus, the Greek God of weather. A strong ancient Roman presence can
still be seen in the city along with many preserved remains. The open-air museum
is located in the Karatepe National Park displaying artefacts and the Misis
Antique Museum housing the elegant mosaic of the 4th century AD representing
Noah's Ark.
The River Seyhan is spanned by the ancient Taskopru Stone Bridge built
by Hadrian and later repaired by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I during the
6th century and the castle dating back to 782 AD. It is worth noting that to
build a 320 m span stone bridge in Roman times was a real challenge.
Many mosques line the streets of the city including Eski Mosque, the Hasan
Aga Mosque and the 16th century Ulu Camii Mosque. A slightly newer building of
the city is the Saat Kulesi clock tower, an old covered bazaar dating back to
1882. For those wanting to see traditional Turkish carpets, swords, manuscript
books and tombstones, the exhibition at The Ethnographical Museum is of
particular interest. The museum building was originally built as a church by the
Crusaders.
As well as various historical sights, the city boasts some beautiful meadows
such as Burucek, Tekir, Horzum and Zorkum.Traditional tea houses and restaurants
are situated along the Seyham Lake and River offering a picturesque dining
experience, a perfect way to witness the beautiful sunset over the river.
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