Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower)

Tower in Antalya

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tanya Dedyukhina

The Saat Kulesi, or Clock Tower, is one of the top attractions in Antalya, marking the entrance to the city's Old Town. Built in 1901 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Sultan Abdulhamit II's reign, the tower stands proudly in the Kalekapısı district, near the bustling heart of the city. Made of rough-hewn stone and set upon a foundation that includes remnants of Antalya's ancient city walls, it is both a symbol of civic pride and a bridge between the city's Ottoman past and modern identity. The tower's square shape and visible clock faces on each side make it instantly recognisable, and its graceful arches and crenellations add a touch of Arabic-inspired elegance to the skyline.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
Practical Tips for Visitors
How to Get There
Nearby Attractions

History and Significance

The Saat Kulesi was one of a series of clock towers built across the Ottoman Empire during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, symbolising progress and modernisation. Antalya's tower is particularly special for its integration into the old city fortifications, blending ancient and newer architectural traditions. Over the decades, it has remained a fixture of daily life, helping locals keep time while serving as a convenient meeting point for visitors. As evening falls, the tower is beautifully illuminated, creating one of the most photogenic scenes in the city.

For travellers, this landmark is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Antalya, not only for its historical charm but also for its location amid the lively bazaars, cafés, and streets that define the city centre. While the interior is not open to the public, viewing it from outside offers an excellent opportunity to capture the essence of Antalya's old-world character and its enduring connection to the past.

Things to See and Do

Admire the stonework and architectural details, especially the arches and crenellations above the clock faces.
Visit after sunset to see the tower illuminated against the night sky.
Enjoy people-watching in the surrounding square, which buzzes with energy and street life.
Explore the nearby shops and stalls selling local crafts, souvenirs, and spices.
Capture photos of the tower with the surrounding old city walls for a sense of Antalya's layered history.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best time to visit: Late afternoon or evening when the tower is lit up and the atmosphere is lively.
Entrance fee: Free (viewed from outside only).
Opening hours: Always open for viewing.
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon, when the square is quieter and the lighting is perfect for photos of the tower and surrounding Kaleiçi walls.
How long to spend: Around 15–30 minutes, or longer if you plan to explore the surrounding old town.
Accessibility: The square is flat and easy to access, though nearby old town streets can be cobbled and uneven.
Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops are available around the square. Public restrooms can be found within walking distance.
Guided tours: Many city walking tours include the Clock Tower as a key stop. It's also a great place to visit on a walking tour of Antalya if exploring independently.
Nearby food options: Try one of the Turkish tea gardens or ice cream stalls around the square, or head into Kaleiçi for local restaurants offering meze and seafood.

How to Get There

The Saat Kulesi is located in Antalya's Kalekapısı district, right at the entrance to the Old Town (Kaleiçi). It is easily accessible on foot from nearby attractions such as Republic Square or the Yivli Minaret Mosque. The nearest tram stop is İsmetpaşa on the AntRay line, just a short walk away. Buses from Konyaaltı and Lara also stop close by, and taxis are readily available throughout the city.

Nearby Attractions

The Clock Tower is surrounded by several of Antalya's must-see landmarks. Just a short walk away is the Yivli Minaret Mosque, one of the best places to see in Antalya, known for its distinctive fluted tower and Seljuk architecture. The Tekeli Mehmet Paşa Mosque, with its elegant domes and tiled interiors, is also nearby. From the tower, you can wander into Kaleiçi, the Old Town, filled with narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, and lively bazaars. Hadrian's Gate and the Old City Marina are both within walking distance, making the Saat Kulesi a perfect starting point for exploring the historical heart of Antalya.

The Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Antalya!

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