İskenderun (District)

İskenderun is a magnificent port city situated along the turquoise sea and at the foot of lush green mountains. It has a very ancient history and is today one of Türkiye’s most important trade centers. Let us explore this beautiful city together!

İskenderun is a district located in southern Türkiye, within the province of Hatay. The city lies on the coast of the İskenderun Gulf, directly in front of the Amanos Mountains, on a flat plain. This strategic location makes it easily accessible both by sea and land.

The city was founded in 333 BC by the world-famous commander Alexander the Great. Originally named "Alexandreia," it has throughout history served as a home to many different civilizations including the Romans, Seljuks and Ottomans.

In İskenderun, history and nature are intertwined. In the city center lies the İskenderun Maritime Museum, one of Türkiye’s largest sea museums. Also worth seeing is the Yunus Column, which according to local belief is the place where the Prophet Yunus emerged from the belly of a fish onto land. The cool highland meadows above the city are ideal for relaxation during the hot summer months.

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After the First World War, İskenderun remained under French administration for a period. However, due to the great efforts of the Turkish people and Atatürk, the independent Hatay State was first established and in 1939 these territories joined the Türkiye Cumhuriyeti. A new era for İskenderun began on 5 July 1938 when the Turkish army entered the city.