İskenderun: A Coastal City with a Rich History and Resilient Spirit
Located on the picturesque Mediterranean coast of Turkey, İskenderun is a municipality and district of Hatay Province that boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity. With an area of 247 km² and a population of over 251,000 residents (as of 2022), this coastal city has faced numerous challenges throughout its long history, including devastating earthquakes, floods, and fires.
Despite these setbacks, İskenderun remains a vibrant and resilient city that continues to attract visitors from around the world. Founded by Alexander the Great in 333 BC as Alexandretta, the city has been ruled by various empires and dynasties throughout its long history, including the Seleucids, Romans, Abbasid Caliphate, Principality of Antioch, Mamluk Sultanate, and Ottomans.
İskenderun's strategic location on an alluvial plain along the Mediterranean coast has made it an important center for trade and commerce throughout history. Today, the city offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, with its bustling markets, historic landmarks, and stunning coastal scenery making it an attractive destination for tourists and business travelers alike.
In terms of quality of life, İskenderun scores well in certain areas, such as childcare and education (A-), which reflects the city's strong emphasis on providing access to quality educational institutions. However, other areas, such as commute time (B) and noise pollution (B-), are more average, indicating room for improvement.
One of the main concerns facing İskenderun is its vulnerability to natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and floods, which have caused significant damage to the city in recent years. The February 2023 earthquake and subsequent aftershocks, floods, and fires highlighted the need for increased investment in disaster preparedness and infrastructure development.
Despite these challenges, İskenderun remains a vibrant and diverse city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich heritage, stunning coastal scenery, and resilient spirit, this Turkish city is an attractive destination for anyone looking to explore the Mediterranean coast.