GÜNDOĞMUŞ (Eksere):

Nestled among the majestic arms of the Western Taurus Mountains, at the foothills of Geyik Mountain, Gündoğmuş is one of Antalya's most ancient and mystical corners. These lands, filtered through the depths of history, carry the traces of civilizations in every stone and every breath.

From Ancient Times to the Seljuks: A Meeting Point of Civilizations

With a history dating back to 1800 BC, Gündoğmuş has hosted a journey that began with ancient settlements established by the Luwians. During the Roman period, ruins such as the Kaseyir City in Taşahır and the Kese Ruins near Senir Village attest to the region's strategic importance. After the Malazgirt Victory, the Turkmen who spread across Anatolia settled in these lands, weaving the Seljuk legacy. In the 15th century, the region, known as "Eksere," became a village under Akseki and was established as a district under the name Gündoğmuş in 1936.

Ottoman Traces and the Legacy of Cem Sultan

At the heart of the district stands the Cem Sultan Mosque, the only remaining Ottoman-era structure. According to legend, this mosque was commissioned by Cem Sultan, the son of Fatih Sultan Mehmet, during his governorship in Silifke. With its stone craftsmanship and simplicity, the mosque defies time. The Ali Bridge on the Köprülü Caravan Route stands as a silent witness to history at the intersection of trade and cultures.

History Embraced by Nature: Plateaus and Waterfalls

Gündoğmuş’s rugged mountains, emerald forests, and rushing waters present a mesmerizing tableau. The Uçansu Waterfall, cascading 50 meters from the rocks, earns its title as the "Hidden Paradise of the Forest." The plateaus are another treasure: Çaşır, Aliahmetler, and Kadılar plateaus, with their flower-filled meadows and fresh air, call out to nature lovers. At the Pınarbaşı Picnic Area, under the shade of centuries-old plane and cedar trees, tasting the icy spring waters is almost a ritual.

The Scent of Honey and History: Gigi Honey and Beekeeping Tradition

Gündoğmuş’s high plateaus, endemic plants, and oxygen-rich air are the secrets behind the unique flavor of Gigi Honey. The millennia-old beekeeping tradition has made this honey one of Antalya’s most valuable products. The hives at the foothills of the mountains symbolize both the generosity of nature and the labor of the local people.

A Journey Through Time: Ancient Ruins and Lost Cities

Within the district’s borders, ancient ruins waiting to be discovered beckon history enthusiasts. The Kazayir Ruins, Gedifi Remains, Casai Ancient City, and mysterious structures on Sinek Mountain bear traces of the Roman and Byzantine periods. The Kese Site near Senir Village is filled with secrets that archaeologists are still trying to unravel.

Before Leaving Gündoğmuş…

Before leaving these lands, witness the colorful spectacle of Eğrigöl in spring. In this land where history and nature intertwine, pause for a moment in the courtyard of the Cem Sultan Mosque and listen to the past. Wash your face in the cool waters of Uçansu and savor the taste of Gigi Honey on your palate. Because Gündoğmuş is not just a geography; it is a time capsule carrying the soul of Anatolia…

The Former Names of Gündoğmuş and Their Origins

1. Eksere: The oldest known name of Gündoğmuş. There are several legends about its origin:

   • Migration from Konya’s İksile Village: It is said that a family migrating from the village of İksile in Konya settled here and named the area "Eksere."

   • Kösere Stone: The "kösere stone," used for sharpening knives and cutting tools, is thought to have evolved into "Eksere" over time.

   • Ökse Plant: Another theory suggests that the name comes from the "ökse" plant, used to feed animals, which over time became "Eksere."

2. Gündoğmuş: In 1936, the village of Eksere separated from Akseki and gained district status. It was named "Gündoğmuş" by Atatürk, becoming Turkey’s newest district. The name combines the words "gün" (sun) and "doğmuş" (risen), meaning "the place where the sun rises."

Gündoğmuş has been a settlement since ancient times. Roman-era ruins and historical remains bear witness to the district’s rich past.