The East Mediterranean.

The East Mediterranean. Antakya, which is located in the east Mediterranean region, has great touristic value due to its historical assets and scenic wonders. The city, which was founded in 307 B.C. by Antigonus, one of the generals  of   Alexander  the  Great,  became  an  important

Cupid, Mosaic Museum – ANTAKYA

center of trade, science and religion in the Roman and Byzantine periods. This region played an important role in the spread of Christianity, and it was here that for the first time in history those who were followers of Christ were referred to as “Christians”. St. Peter’s Grotto Church, to the east of the city, is where the first Christians worshipped. Extraordinarily beautiful, world famous mosaics, which were collected from the environs of Antakya, are displayed at the Mosaic Museum. The Habib-Neccar Mosque, which was initially a church, was converted into a mosque by Sultan Baybars in the Seljuk era.