Underwater Park in Çanakkale Boosts Diving Tourism Potential
An underwater park located in the northwestern province of Çanakkale, Türkiye, is home to historical war wrecks, including naval vessels and equipment that sank over a century ago. This unique site has significant potential to enhance diving tourism in the region and elevate its profile on a national scale.
During World War I, various locations around the Dardanelles were identified where naval vessels sank, as well as sites where military ammunition and equipment were lost during the Gallipoli campaign landings. This information was documented to cater to diving enthusiasts seeking sporting activities, and, following the ministry’s approval in 2020, these areas were officially opened to diving tourism.
While the global tourism sector experiences average annual growth of 4%-7%, nature and adventure tourism, which encompasses underwater sports, has achieved impressive annual growth rates ranging from 20% to 30%.
In an interview, Ismail Kaşdemir, President of the Directorate of Gallipoli Historic Site, emphasized the objective of providing a cultural and historical experience for diving enthusiasts. He stated that divers can explore wrecks and immerse themselves in history while enjoying the aquatic environment.
“The tourism season in our region has expanded to span from March to December. Our diving area features 22 distinct diving spots within a 150-square-kilometer zone. We anticipate welcoming 4.5 million tourists to our site by the end of 2024,” Kaşdemir noted.
<p"What sets us apart is that all the sites contain original wrecks for divers to explore," he added.
In Türkiye, diving tourism focused on cultural and historical wrecks is predominantly concentrated in the southern and southwestern provinces of Antalya and Muğla. In some locations, even modern vehicles have been intentionally submerged to attract diving enthusiasts.
Dardanelles: A Historical Symbol
The Dardanelles Strait serves as a significant symbol of Ottoman resilience against Allied forces, with its surrounding waters filled with numerous wrecks. This area has been a crucial maritime route from ancient times to the present day, particularly during World War I.
Underwater Park Dedicated to World War I Opens for Tourists
Approximately 28 notable ships, including lighters, minesweepers, landing ships, and cargo vessels, have been identified as wrecks that sank and are now accessible to diving enthusiasts. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote tourism in the region.
Cultural Significance of Wrecks
The wrecks, which hold historical significance and tell human stories, are set to become a major attraction for those interested in cultural diving tourism. This initiative marks the establishment of the first underwater park themed around World War I.
Information for Non-Divers
For visitors who may not have the chance to dive, comprehensive information about the underwater park, its wrecks, and diving opportunities can be found at the exhibition area located at the Mehmetçik Lighthouse.
Additional Activities in the Historic Area
Beyond diving, the historic area provides visitors with various outdoor activities, including trekking, cycling, and motorcycle routes, as well as designated camping areas.
The Gallipoli Historic Site
The Gallipoli historic site is renowned for its cemeteries and memorials dedicated to both Turkish and foreign soldiers who lost their lives during the Gallipoli Campaign in 1915. Visitors can explore trenches, castles, towers, and countless remnants from the war. In total, the site is home to the graves and memorials of approximately 250,000 Turkish soldiers, alongside another 250,000 from Australia, New Zealand, England, and France.
The Gallipoli Historical Underwater Park: A New Frontier for Divers
Formally inaugurated in 2021, the Gallipoli Historical Underwater Park features multiple diving points and is envisioned as a hub for all diving enthusiasts. Plans are also in progress to install a measurement station that will provide real-time data on climate change and pollution levels in the sea.
A Historical Battleground
Çanakkale, known for its significant role in World War I, was the site of an epic battle on the Gallipoli Peninsula. While this conflict is recognized as one of the most critical naval events of the war, it remains largely unknown to many around the globe.
Exploring Underwater Wonders
The underwater park offers advanced 3D maps and applications, allowing visitors to visualize the resting places of the sunken battleships at the seabed.
Last year, Türkiye welcomed 56.7 million visitors, drawing attention for its rich cultural and historical sites alongside its significant archaeological discoveries. Underwater tourism, coupled with health care tourism, presents a promising avenue for the country to enhance its appeal to a broader range of tourists.
The Mustafa Kemal Path Project
In addition to the underwater park, the Gallipoli Historic Site also features a project dedicated to narrating Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s pivotal role in the Çanakkale battles. This initiative has transformed the historical battlegrounds into an open-air museum, creating visitor pathways that follow the route Atatürk took during the land battles, starting from his arrival in Çanakkale, based on historical records.
This route encompasses all significant locations where Atatürk walked, beginning on February 25, 1915, when he first arrived in Çanakkale, and leading to the area where he established his headquarters, marking a monumental chapter in history.
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