Döşemealtı is a district located north of Antalya city center. The district, located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center, is bordered by Burdur to the north, Kepez to the east, Korkuteli to the west, and Konyaaltı to the south. Döşemealtı, which gained district status in 2008, takes its name from the historical “Döşeme Road” that has been used since ancient times and passes through the region.

^{Döşemealtı (Döşemealtı Municipality)}

History

Döşemealtı has been located on the transit route of the Pamphylia and Pisidia regions throughout history. The ancient “Döşeme Road,” which gives the district its name, was built during the Roman period and became an important route connecting the settlements in the region. Karain Cave, located in the region, is one of Türkiye's largest natural caves and contains remains dating back to the Lower Paleolithic Period. Furthermore, its proximity to the ancient city of Termessos offers archaeological and historical riches. During the Ottoman period, the region had village status and maintained its rural settlement characteristics with the Republic era; in 2008, it separated from the central district and became an independent district.

^{Ancient City of Termessos (Döşemealtı Municipality)}

Geography and Climate

Döşemealtı is located on the southern foothills of the Taurus Mountains, in the northern part of the Antalya Plain. The district, with an area of 673.1 km², geographically consists of flat areas and forested regions. The average altitude of the district center from the sea is 300 meters. The district exhibits transitional features between Mediterranean and continental climates. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are cool and rainy. The district's vegetation generally consists of pine forests, maquis, and heathlands. Rich in natural resources, the district stands out with Karain Cave and its surrounding ecological structure.

Population and Demography

According to the 2024 Address-Based Population Registration System (ADNKS) data, the population of Döşemealtı district is 90,572 people. Besides the district center, settlements are also dense in neighborhoods such as Yeniköy, Çığlık, and Bademağacı. A large portion of the population that has migrated consists of people from Antalya city center and surrounding provinces. The education level is steadily rising, and the literacy rate is over 98%.

Economy

Döşemealtı's economy is based on agriculture, animal husbandry, industry, and construction sectors. Olive, pomegranate, wheat, and barley are among the main agricultural products. Small and large animal husbandry is common in the district. Organized industrial zones and workshop-type production areas support economic activity. Especially marble quarries and stone processing facilities strengthen the district's industrial sector. With the development of the housing sector, real estate and building materials trade has also come to the forefront.

^{Evdirhan (Döşemealtı Municipality )}

Tourism, Culture and Cuisine

Döşemealtı is a district with potential for tourism, thanks to its natural and cultural heritage. Karain Cave is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. It is the largest cave in Türkiye where humans have lived. Furthermore, its proximity to Termessos National Park allows for activities such as nature walks and camping.

Döşemealtı cuisine bears traces of traditional Yoruk dishes. Keşkek, saç kavurma (pan-fried lamb/beef), tandoor kebab, and tarhana soup are frequently consumed local delicacies. In recent years, gastronomy and agricultural fairs organized in the district also contribute to the promotion of local cuisine.