Manavgat, in the south of Türkiye is a large coastal district located east of the Antalya province. Manavgat, situated on the Mediterranean coast, is approximately 75 km away from Antalya city center. The district is surrounded by Alanya to the east, Serik to the west, and Akseki and Gündoğmuş districts to the north. Manavgat stands out with both its natural beauties and historical texture. The district center has developed around the Manavgat River, from which it takes its name, and is one of the region's important centers in terms of both agriculture and tourism.

^{Manavgat Waterfall (Manavgat Municipality)}

History

The history of Manavgat dates back to the ancient Pamphylia period. The ancient city of Side, located near the district, was founded in the 7th century BC and became an important settlement during the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Seljuk periods. Manavgat was part of the administrative structure under the Teke Sanjak during the Ottoman period, and gained a developing district identity from the first years of the Republic. Manavgat, referred to as a sub-district at the end of the 19th century, gained district status in 1914. Today, it is a settlement where cultural and natural tourism intertwine, with ancient cities like Side, as well as river, waterfall, and forest areas.

Geography and Climate

Manavgat district is located east of Antalya, on the Mediterranean coast. With an area of approximately 2,300 km², Manavgat is one of Antalya's largest districts in terms of surface area. The district's lands extend north to the Taurus Mountains, and its south is bounded by the Mediterranean coastline. The Manavgat River is the most important natural feature of the district, dividing the city center into two and holding great importance for agricultural irrigation and tourism. The Manavgat Waterfall, located on the river, is one of the district's natural symbols. The climate is typical Mediterranean; summers are hot and dry, winters are mild and rainy. The annual average temperature is 18–20°C, and the rainfall is approximately 1000 mm.

Population and Demographics

According to TÜİK 2024 ADNKS data, the population of Manavgat district is 262,576. The district experiences seasonal population changes due to tourism; a temporary population increase is observed during the summer months. The district has experienced migration from various provinces of Türkiye, especially from the Black Sea Region. Furthermore, the number of foreign residents has increased in recent years. This diversity is also reflected in the social structure of the district.

Economy

Manavgat's economy is based on tourism, agriculture, and trade sectors, with tourism being the primary. There are numerous hotels, holiday villages, and accommodation facilities in the district; these facilities are concentrated especially in the Side, Titreyengöl, and Evrenseki regions. In agriculture, citrus, wheat, cotton, tomatoes, peppers, and banana production are prominent. Nature tourism is also developing with activities such as boat tours and rafting on the Manavgat River. Fishing is supported by small businesses established along the river. Small and medium-sized industrial sites and trade centers are located in the district; the construction sector is also showing growth.

Tourism, Culture, and Cuisine

Manavgat is one of Antalya's most important tourism centers. Side Neighborhood, part of the district, is an open-air museum with its historical ancient city ruins, Temple of Apollo, Roman Theater, and Agora structures. Ancient City of Side is on the UNESCO Tentative List of World Heritage Sites. Titreyengöl and Sorgun forests are attractive places for camping and ecotourism with their natural beauties. Manavgat Waterfall, a picnic and recreation area, is among other tourist attractions. The Manavgat Barış Suyu Culture, Tourism, Art and Youth Festival is held annually in the district.

Manavgat cuisine bears traces of Mediterranean and Nomadic (Yörük) culture. Tahini piyaz, pumpkin dessert, keşkek, hibeş, and bitter orange jam are among the prominent flavors. Fish restaurants and eateries serving traditional home-cooked meals are common in the region. Additionally, jams, pastes, and dried foods made from field products in summer reflect the unique flavors of the region.