Old Datca

Old Datça is a small neighborhood town in the Datça County of Muğla Province. It is unique as it the only settlements on the Datça Peninsula that has been continuously inhabited since ancient times, with a documented past that stretches as far back as the 11th century BC.

Old Datça is entered via a narrow roadway lined by shops that offer a glimpse into the region’s unique traditions, and both the town’s history and genuine spirit are gradually revealed along its narrow streets. Along the way visitors will spot women embroidering textiles while employing Datça’s famous çimdiktechnique. The colorful streets of Old Datça also provide visitors with unique shopping opportunities as they stroll among galleries displaying and selling the works of local artists and other shops selling souvenirs and traditionally produced artifacts.

The first name to spring to mind when Old Datça is mentioned will most certainly be that of the late and celebrated poet, Can Yücel. Can Yücel’s house remains here, and he is further memorialized with a street and a café now bearing his name. Can Yücel was not only a fine poet, he also dedicated himself to preserving the unique features of this lovely region of Old Datça and his efforts were instrumental in introducing world travelers to the town and its incomparable features and offerings. Datça can now easily be accessed by ferry from Bodrum, by private transportation, or by public transport from the city of Marmaris. Modern Datça proper and Old Datça are approximately three kilometers distant from one another.