Leaving Miletus, I caught a glimpse of a small ruin at the base of a large hill as our tour bus continued its return trip towards the port of Kusadasi, Turkey. The site stood all alone, with no visitors, seeming sad as if it had its own story to tell…yet, tourists passed without notice.
We would have about an hour to explore some of the local sites of Kusadasi, grab a few souvenirs from the shops or have a quick snack prior to embarkation.
Making our return to the port, we noticed signs directing us back to Kusadasi. The name Kusadasi means “bird island“, kus meaning bird and ada meaning island. The locals decided on this name as the island takes on the appearance of a bird’s head when viewed at a certain angle. The locals also refer to Kusadasi as Ada, a shorter version of the name.
Kusadasi has had several names over the years as it has been under the rule of several nations to include the Greeks, Byzantine, Venetians and Genovese. It is believed that John the Baptist and Mary, the Mother of Jesus had made their home in nearby Ephesus.
We made our entrance into Kusadasi, passing through the beautiful port town with its boutique hotels and seaside restaurants. Along the promenade were several monuments as well. One of my favorite statues was that of Neptune/Poseidon, which not only represents the importance of the sea to Kusadasi but demonstrates the earlier influence of the Greek and Romans to this city.
The Kusadasi Monument of Ataturk and Youth located on the waterfront Promenade is a monument that represents peace and hope not only to Kusadasi but to the nation. Designed in honor of Turkey’s first President, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who governed the country for 15 years until his death in 1938.
Within close proximity to the Ataturk Peace Monument was the Hand of Peace Monument. The hand reaches up from the ground holding in its hands several black birds and a white dove. A short promenade leads out to this beautiful piece of artwork. Benches provide a place of rest to visitors with a perfect view of the cove. 
Today, Kusadasi is a popular port for cruise ships as well as a jumping off point for tourists visiting Ephesus. Many of the older houses have been transformed into modern shops, cafes and bars to cater to visitors. Vendors sell souvenirs, clothing and technology from their stalls.
It is a perfect oasis to sample Turkish coffee or sip on their delicious apple tea while enjoying the turquoise waters of this scenic cove. Ferries transport passengers to the Greek island of Samos as private yachts tie up along the marina.
Besides items of tile and apple tea, another popular trinket that tourists can purchase throughout Turkey is the “Evil Eye”. Circular in shape, and presented in different shades of blue, it resembles the shape of an eye and is found on jewelry, key chains and tiles. The locals believe that this symbol will protect them from their bad, evil thoughts. 
While our ship was docked in the port of Kusadasi, the island of Guvercin Adasi was off towards the right. The castle-like fortress and city wall had protected the island from invaders for many years and was known as “Pigeon Island”. A causeway connects the mainland to the island providing gorgeous views of Kusadasi and its port. There is also a private beach, a public beach, a café, flower garden and disco for those who want to dance into the morning.
Kusadasi is more than just a port town with so many monuments, attractions and historical sites to explore. A variety of options will keep any visitor busy during their time in port or if they choose to take an afternoon excursion. For more information about the port of Kusadasi, visit the city’s website at http://www.kusadasi.biz/info/guide/must-do.
Have you had the opportunity to visit Kusadasi? What were some of the sites that were of interest to you? I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about my short port stay in Kusadasi and wishing you many Happy Travels!
For more information about the beautiful, exotic country of Turkey, check out the following links!
Topkapki Palace
The Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia
Spice Bazaar and Hippodrome
Ephesus, Turkey: A Journey Back in Time
A Turkish Carpet Demonstration
The Theater of Miletus
The Baths of Miletus
