Kaş is a district of Antalya province, located on the southern coast of Türkiye. It is situated at the southwestern tip of the Teke Peninsula and is one of the important coastal towns located on the Mediterranean Sea. The district stands out with its natural beauties, historical texture, and protected coastal structure. It is bordered by Fethiye district of Muğla to the west, Elmalı to the north, and Demre to the east. Opposite it, only 2 kilometers away, is the Greek island of Meis (Kastellorizo).
Kaputaş Beach (Anadolu Agency)
Natural Structure and Geographical Features
Kaş district has an area of 2,231 km² and is characterized by its rugged terrain structure. Located at the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, the district draws attention with its mountain ranges extending perpendicularly to the coast and its indented coastline consisting of numerous coves. The region exhibits a Dalmatian-type coastal structure. Although not considered rich in rivers and underground water resources, the mountainous structure has a variety of natural formations.
Climate Characteristics
The Mediterranean climate prevails in the district. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild and rainy. The Mediterranean climate is effective up to an altitude of 700 meters, while continental climate characteristics are felt in higher settlement areas. This situation enables the simultaneous development of coastal agriculture, summer tourism, and highland pasturing activities.
Population and Settlement
According to TÜİK ADNKS data for 2023, the total population of Kaş district is 63,053. Of this population, 31,139 are male and 31,914 are female. There are 54 neighborhoods in the district. While the neighborhoods in the coastal areas have a high population, those in the inner regions are more sparsely populated. In summer months, the district's population significantly increases due to the influx of local and foreign tourists.
History
Kaş was founded on the ancient city of Antiphellos, which belonged to the Lycian civilization throughout history. Initially used as the port of the settlement called Phellos, Antiphellos gained commercial and cultural importance over time and became an independent city. It became urbanized starting from the 4th century BC; during the Hellenistic and Roman periods, it was enriched with structures such as a theater, monumental tombs, and sarcophagi. During the Ottoman period, Kaş was included in the administrative structure as a small coastal town, and it maintained its district status in the Republican period.
Administrative Structure and Neighborhoods
There are 54 neighborhoods in Kaş district. Some of these neighborhoods are located on the coastline, while others are in mountainous areas. The settlement pattern is shaped according to the rugged terrain, and transportation between neighborhoods is provided by road. The center of the district is the area where public institutions and trade are concentrated.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Access to Kaş is possible by road. The district's intercity connection is provided via road. The nearest airport is in Dalaman or Antalya. Transportation between inner neighborhoods is carried out by municipal vehicles or private cars. Due to the mountainous structure, access to some rural neighborhoods may be limited.
Tourism and Economic Activities
Although economic activities are not directly mentioned in the sources, it is understood that Kaş has an economy largely based on tourism due to its coastal structure, natural beauties, and ancient ruins. The increasing population in the district during the summer months contributes to the development of the accommodation and service sectors. Olive cultivation, small-scale agriculture, and local trade are also observed economic activities.
TRT Documentary, (Youtube)
