Antalya receives its name from its founder, King of Pergamum II. Attalos. The city was called Attalia referring to Attalos-its founder; which was first called "Adalya" and later "Antalya" by the Turks.

Archeological excavations proved that Antalya and the surrounding region was inhabited 40,000 years ago. Karain Cave, 27 km northwest of Antalya in the vicinity of Yagcilar contained artifacts belonging to the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic and Bronze ages.

Since 2000 BC, the region has been ruled respectively by city states such as the Hittites, Pamphylia, Lycia and Cilicia and than the Persians, Alexander the Great, Antigonos, Ptolemais, the Seleucids, the Kingdom of Pergamum and finally by the Romans. After the 7th century A.D. the region frequently changed hands between the Byzantines and the Seljuks. In 1207, it was finally taken over by the Seljuks. The reign continued in the following order: Tekelioguls, Ottomans, Karamanoguls, and than the Ottomans again gained control.

Because of the archeological and natural beauties of the area, Antalya is called " The Turkish Riviera ". The sea, the sun, the nature and the history all merge together in an enchanting harmony here, where you can find the most beautiful and cleanest beaches of the Mediterranean. The 630 km shoreline of Antalya is filled with ancient cities and harbors, mausoleums, and laced with beautiful coves, sandy beaches, lush forests and rivers.

Kaleiçi creates a lovely corner with its boulevards lined with palm trees, its internationally awarded marina, its traditional architecture, which is set amidst the bustle of modern city of Antalya; the center of Turkish tourism, hosts such activities as Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival, International Beach Volleyball, Triathlon, Golf Tournaments, Archery, Tennis, Skiing competitions and many other sports. The Cultural Center of Antalya opened its doors in 1995 which hosts cultural and artistic events like plastic artwork, music, theater and various different exhibitions.

Especially The Belek Region, where the congress will be held is one of the most beautiful natural parts of Antalya. Manavgat and Side backed by green forested Taurus mountains are in a magnificent harmony with and integrated in the turquouise color of The Mediterranean sea. It is among our regions, where one must see.