Ancient Antioch on Syrian border with incredible mosaic museum, Arabic-influenced cuisine (best food in Turkey), Orthodox churches, and multicultural heritage. Walk streets where St. Peter preached, taste unique Hatay dishes, explore cave church. Culturally distinct from rest of Turkey.
Hatay province in southernmost Turkey, bordering Syria, is one of the country's most culturally distinctive regions, with a heritage shaped by Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Crusader, Arab, and Ottoman civilizations layered over three millennia. The provincial capital, Antakya — ancient Antioch on the Orontes, founded in 300 BC by Seleucus I — was one of the largest cities of the Roman Empire and a centre of early Christianity where the followers of Jesus were first called Christians. Despite severe earthquake damage in February 2023, the region's heritage and culinary identity remain significant draws.
The Hatay Archaeology Museum housed one of the world's finest collections of Roman and Byzantine floor mosaics — many relocated from villas and public buildings throughout the Antioch region — including the celebrated 'Drinking Contest' and 'Worcester Hunt' mosaics. The museum sustained damage in the 2023 earthquake; visitors should check current opening status and collection accessibility before travelling.
The Cave Church of St. Peter (Sen Piyer Kilisesi), carved into the face of Mount Staurin northeast of the city centre, is traditionally considered one of the earliest Christian churches and the place where Peter first preached. Annual Catholic masses are held here and the site receives pilgrims alongside tourists.
Hatay's cuisine is Arabic-influenced and widely regarded as some of the most complex and flavour-rich in Turkey. Künefe — a warm kadayıf pastry filled with stretchy cheese and soaked in syrup — originated in Hatay and is best eaten fresh from street-side vendors. The regional breakfast featuring multiple salads, herbs, sausages, and çökelek cheese is a meal in itself. The spice market in the old bazaar sells ingredients from Arab cooking traditions not found elsewhere in Turkey.
Note: the February 2023 earthquake caused severe destruction across Hatay province. Travellers should research current infrastructure and accommodation conditions before planning a visit.
Highlights
- Hatay Archaeology Museum — world-class Roman mosaic collection from ancient Antioch villas (check status post-2023)
- Cave Church of St. Peter (Sen Piyer Kilisesi) — one of the earliest Christian church sites
- Künefe and Arabic-influenced Hatay cuisine, considered among Turkey's most distinctive food cultures
- Ancient Antioch street grid and bazaar quarter reflecting three millennia of layered civilisation
- Multicultural heritage of Arab, Armenian, Greek, Alevi, and Sunni communities in a single city
Tips for visiting
- Check the current status of the Hatay Archaeology Museum before visiting following the 2023 earthquake
- Eat künefe warm and fresh from street vendors near the bazaar — not from tourist restaurants
- The Sen Piyer Kilisesi (Cave Church) is most atmospheric during a weekday non-service morning
- Hire a local guide to navigate both the sights and the nuanced cultural landscape of the city
- Allow at least two days — Hatay cuisine alone justifies an extended stay
- Combine with a visit to Harbiye (ancient Daphne), a forested canyon suburb 8 km from the city
When to visit
Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) provide the most comfortable temperatures for exploring the city. Summer heat in the Orontes valley can be intense. The annual St. Peter's Day celebration (29 June) draws pilgrims and is a culturally significant time to visit.
Accessibility
The Antakya city centre and bazaar area are broadly accessible at street level, though many streets in the old quarter are narrow and uneven. The Cave Church of St. Peter requires a moderate uphill walk on a paved path. The archaeology museum, when open, is a modern building with flat galleries. Post-earthquake reconstruction has altered many access conditions — verify locally.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best Hatay dish to try?
Künefe is the signature dish: a warm pastry-and-cheese dessert unique to the region. The regional breakfast table featuring 20+ small dishes, the spiced liver kebabs, and the hummus with red pepper flakes are also considered essential Hatay food experiences.
Is it safe to visit Hatay after the 2023 earthquake?
The earthquake caused significant structural damage across the province. By 2025, reconstruction was ongoing. Visitors should check current conditions, as specific streets, hotels, and cultural sites may still be affected. Some areas have reopened while others remain under reconstruction.
How do visitors reach Hatay from Istanbul or Ankara?
Hatay Airport (Hatay Havalimanı) receives regular domestic flights from Istanbul and Ankara, with a journey of approximately 90 minutes. Bus services from Ankara take around 10 hours. The province is also accessible by road from Adana (200 km).
What is the Cave Church of St. Peter?
Sen Piyer Kilisesi is a cave chapel carved into the hillside northeast of Antakya, traditionally identified as one of Christianity's earliest places of worship where Peter preached. Annual Catholic services are held here; it is maintained by the Franciscan order and open to visitors daily.