Demre is a district located on the Mediterranean coast, west of Antalya, notable for its historical and natural riches. Demre, approximately 145 km from Antalya city center, is surrounded by Kaş to the west, Finike to the east, and Elmalı to the north. The south of the district opens to the Mediterranean. The region, which hosted the ancient Lycian civilization, has witnessed many civilizations throughout history; it has gained fame especially with the ancient city of Myra and the Church of Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus). Demre, which gained district status in 1987, is one of the coastal districts that stands out with its agricultural production and cultural tourism.

^{Demre (Demre Municipality)}

History

Demre's historical past dates back to ancient times, especially to the Lycian period. The ancient city of Myra, located in the district, is one of the most important cities of the Lycian League and maintained its importance during the Roman and Byzantine periods. The rock tombs, theater structure, and water channels in the city hold great archaeological value. Demre is also the place where Saint Nicholas, known as Santa Claus in the Christian world, served as a bishop. The Church of Saint Nicholas is an important historical place of worship with its mosaics and frescoes dating from the Byzantine period. During the Ottoman period, the region continued to exist as a small settlement affiliated with the Teke Sanjak. After the Republic, it developed with agricultural production and coastal tourism.

^{Lycian Civilizations Museum (Demre Municipality)}

Geography and Climate

Demre has a geography consisting of a coastal plain and surrounding mountainous areas, with a coastline on the Mediterranean. Its area is approximately 470 km². The Mediterranean climate prevails in the district; summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild and rainy. In mountainous areas, the vegetation consists of forests and maquis, while agricultural activities are common in the plain. The Demre Plain, with its fertile soils, is a region where greenhouse farming activities are particularly intense. The warm climate allows for agricultural production throughout all four seasons.

Population and Demography

According to 2024 ADNKS data, the population of Demre district is 26,849 people. 50.1% of this population is female, and 49.9% is male. The majority of the population is concentrated in the district center and in agricultural areas close to the coastline. The district experiences limited intensity in terms of internal migration and seasonal labor. The literacy rate is over 98% according to TÜİK data. The increase in the number of tourists during the summer months leads to temporary population variability.

Economy

Demre's economy is predominantly based on agriculture, especially covered vegetable and fruit production. In addition to products such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and eggplant, banana and citrus production is also widespread. The spread of greenhouse technologies has made year-round production possible. Besides agriculture, cultural tourism and yacht tourism diversify the district's economic resources. The ancient city of Myra, the Church of Saint Nicholas, and the sunken city region on the Kekova coast attract intense interest from both local and foreign tourists. Boat tours and diving tourism around Kekova are activities that support the service sector.

^{Myra Ancient City (Demre Municipality)}

Tourism, Culture, and Cuisine

Demre is a center where archaeological and faith tourism are intertwined. Cultural sites such as the theater and rock tombs in the ancient city of Myra, the Church of Saint Nicholas, the ancient city of Simena, and the Sunken City of Kekova are the main attractions for visitors. The Saint Nicholas Festivals held in the district are an important event with national and international participation. Additionally, the coves on the Mediterranean coast, with their clean sea and untouched nature, are suitable for yacht tourism.

Demre cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Yoruk cultures. Olive oil dishes, vegetable-based recipes, fish, and seafood are prominent elements of the local cuisine. Locally, stuffed zucchini flowers, keşkek, tarhana soup, and bitter orange jam are among the frequently consumed delicacies.