Simena (Kaleköy): The Village of Sunken Sarcophagi

Simena is a small Lycian village in the Demre district of Antalya with no road access, reached only by boat or along the coastal footpath. Also known as Kaleköy, the village is crowned by a medieval castle, while ancient sarcophagi rise along its shore and even within the water. It is a calm, spellbinding spot that anyone exploring the Kekova region should not miss.

What to see in Simena

The village's emblem is Simena Castle, built on the hilltop. The most special detail inside the walls is a tiny ancient theatre carved straight into the rock; considered one of the smallest antique theatres in Anatolia, it offers a peerless view stretching over Kekova Island and the facing shores. The Lycian sarcophagi scattered around and inside the castle are instantly recognisable by their triangular lids.

The village's most photographed scene is the sarcophagus standing half-submerged along the shore. Over the centuries the rising water level partly claimed this funerary monument, creating the iconic image that made Simena famous. Wandering among the stone houses, narrow paths and bougainvillea-draped courtyards is a delight in itself.

How to get there

Simena cannot be reached by car. The most common route is to drive as far as the village of Üçağız from the Demre or Kaş direction, then join a boat tour or cross over in a small boat. The great majority of Kekova boat tours departing from the area pause at Simena, gliding past the sunken city before docking at the pier below the village.

For those who enjoy walking, the coastal path from Üçağız to Simena is a lovely alternative; a pleasant walk of about half an hour brings you to the village. Since boat schedules and tours change by season, we recommend checking current departure points and times before you go.

When to go

The ideal seasons are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild for boating and walking and the sea is crystal clear. In summer the Kekova route grows quite crowded, and the midday sun can be tiring on the castle's shadeless paths. Early-morning or afternoon tours are more comfortable for both light and crowds.

Practical tips

Because the village has no paved roads or vehicles, comfortable non-slip shoes are essential; the climb to the castle is rocky and steep. Bring water, sun protection and a hat. Entry to the castle may be charged, so carrying some cash makes things easier. You can pause at the small cafés and restaurants in the village and rest by the sea. If you are joining a boat tour, pack a swimsuit and towel; Kekova's coves are wonderful for swimming.

How do you get to Simena?

Simena cannot be reached by road. Visitors usually drive to the village of Üçağız via Demre or Kaş, then cross to the village by boat tour or small boat. It can also be reached on foot in about half an hour along the coastal path starting from Üçağız. As schedules and tour times vary by season, check current information before you set out.

Is there an entrance fee at Simena?

Wandering the village is free, but entry to Simena Castle on the hilltop is usually charged. Since most visitors arrive as part of a boat tour, we suggest checking what the tour includes and the castle's entry conditions before you go. As exact fees can change seasonally, keep some cash with you.

How long does it take to visit Simena?

A relaxed hour and a half to two hours is usually enough to explore the village and castle, take photos and pause by the sea. If you arrive on a Kekova boat tour, the Simena stop generally covers this time. Add the walk and a swim and you can spread it across half a day.

To discover Kekova's sunken city, the surrounding Lycian villages and the region's other hidden coves, be sure to browse the guides, maps and nearby places on FindAntalya.