Echoes of History and Climate Ambition: A Journey Through Antalya’s Kaleiçi

ANTALYA, TURKEY – Beyond the bustling, modern facade of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast lies a living chronicle of human civilization. Kaleiçi, the historic old town of Antalya, serves as a bridge between the ancient Roman Empire, the Byzantine era, and the modern Turkish Republic. Recently, this timeless district became the backdrop for international discourse as delegates gathered for the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), held from November 9–20, 2026.

Amidst the high-stakes climate negotiations, a journey through the cobblestone alleys of Kaleiçi offers a profound reflection on how history, faith, and environmental stewardship intersect in the heart of one of the world’s most significant cultural crossroad nations.

The Living Museum: Exploring the Soul of Kaleiçi

Kaleiçi is more than a tourist destination; it is a layered archaeological site where the scent of the Mediterranean sea mingles with the echoes of antiquity. Entering the district through the iconic Hadrian’s Gate—a triple-arched marble monument built in 130 AD to commemorate the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian—one feels an immediate transition from the modern city to a bygone era.

The infrastructure of Antalya reflects a sophisticated balance between development and preservation. For the modern visitor, the city is easily navigable via a robust public transportation network, primarily consisting of buses that mirror the efficiency of systems like Jakarta’s Transjakarta, ensuring that even in historic zones, mobility remains fluid.

As one navigates the narrow, winding corridors of the old town, the architecture shifts from Roman remnants to Ottoman-era wooden houses. These paths are lined with artisanal shops, cozy cafes, and seafood restaurants that capture the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean.

The Phenomenon of the Kesik Minare

Perhaps the most striking example of the region’s religious and architectural fluidity is the Kesik Minare (Broken Minaret) Mosque. The structure is a testament to the shifting tides of history. Originally constructed as a church in the 5th or 6th century, the building has undergone multiple transformations. Throughout the centuries, it has served as a sanctuary for both Christian and Muslim communities, reflecting the syncretic nature of Anatolian history.

By 1931, the building had seen further transitions, at times functioning as a church before ultimately being repurposed as a mosque, a role it retains to this day. Visitors walking through the interior encounter a space that feels like a museum; remnants of ancient masonry are preserved alongside modern prayer carpets. The site serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring nature of human spirituality in a city that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires.

Chronology of Resilience: From Antiquity to the Modern Day

To understand Antalya, one must view it through the lens of its long-standing resilience. The city’s history is a continuum of cultural integration.

• 130 AD: Construction of Hadrian’s Gate, cementing Roman influence in the region.
• 5th–6th Century: Establishment of early Christian structures, which would later form the foundation of sites like the Kesik Minare.
• Ottoman Era: Transformation of urban planning, leading to the distinct "Old Town" layout found today.
• 1931: Stabilization of the Kesik Minare as a mosque, reflecting the cultural consolidation of the modern Turkish state.
• November 2026: Antalya hosts the COP31, marking a new chapter where the city serves as a global stage for climate diplomacy.

The presence of the Hidirlik Tower at the edge of the cliffs further highlights this historical depth. Traditionally believed to have served as a defensive fortress or a lighthouse to guide vessels through the Mediterranean, the tower now serves as a panoramic vantage point for sunset—a moment when the golden light hits the limestone cliffs, mirroring the "everlasting" nature of the city itself.

Supporting Data: Turkey and Indonesia’s Shared Diplomatic Bonds

Turkey’s significance to Indonesia extends far beyond the current climate conference. As one of the first nations to formally recognize Indonesia’s independence, the historical bond between the two countries is rooted in mutual respect and shared cultural values, particularly as both nations boast large, vibrant Muslim populations.

This shared identity is visible in the urban landscape of Antalya, where mosques with towering, elegant minarets define the skyline. The integration of these sacred spaces into the daily rhythm of life, coupled with the ubiquity of friendly street cats—a beloved feature of Turkish urban life—creates an atmosphere that feels both ancient and remarkably hospitable to international visitors.

Official Responses: Indonesia’s Climate Commitment at COP31

While the streets of Kaleiçi tell the story of the past, the convention halls in Antalya are writing the future. The Indonesian delegation to COP31, led by the Special Envoy to the President for Climate and Energy, Hashim Djojohadikusumo, has arrived with a clear, ambitious message. The delegation also includes the Minister of Environment and Forestry, Jumhur Hidayat, alongside other high-level officials.

Shifting the Narrative: Swasembada Pangan (Food Self-Sufficiency)

The centerpiece of Indonesia’s agenda at COP31 is the declaration of food self-sufficiency without the need for further deforestation. In a press briefing held in Jakarta prior to the summit, Hashim Djojohadikusumo emphasized a strategic shift in national policy.

"The most important message I will carry as a special envoy in Turkey is that Indonesia no longer needs to clear land or forests for agricultural production to achieve food self-sufficiency," Hashim stated.

This assertion is backed by data. Indonesia claims to have achieved rice self-sufficiency three years ahead of the 2029 target. Current stockpiles in government and private warehouses have reached 5.3 million tons, a surplus so significant that the government has authorized the export of rice to international markets, with an initial commitment to supply 500,000 tons to Malaysia.

Implications: A New Paradigm for Global Development

The implications of Indonesia’s stance are profound. By decoupling economic growth and food security from deforestation, Indonesia is attempting to set a global precedent for developing nations.

1. Environmental Integrity: By halting the clearing of primary forests, Indonesia contributes significantly to global carbon sequestration targets, a key pillar of the COP31 agenda.
2. Economic Autonomy: The transition from an importer to an exporter of essential grains shifts the power dynamic in Southeast Asian trade, strengthening regional food security.
3. Diplomatic Influence: As a G20 nation, Indonesia’s success in balancing massive population needs with environmental preservation provides a blueprint for other nations in the Global South.

"Because we are successful in food production, there is no longer a need to damage or cut down primary forests. It is no longer necessary," Hashim emphasized.

Conclusion: Reflections from the Coast

As the sun sets over the Mediterranean, casting long shadows over the Roman walls of the Hidirlik Tower and the ancient stones of the Kesik Minare, the juxtaposition between the past and the future is clear. Antalya is a city that has learned to adapt—repurposing churches into mosques, navigating the transition from imperial city to modern tourist hub, and now, hosting a conference that will define the survival of the planet.

For the delegates of COP31, the lesson of Kaleiçi is one of sustainability. Just as the city has preserved its history while evolving to meet the needs of the 21st century, the world is now tasked with preserving its natural heritage while ensuring the food and energy security of its people. As Indonesia steps onto the global stage in Antalya, it carries with it not just the weight of its own policy successes, but the hope that human ingenuity can indeed reconcile the demands of the present with the needs of the future.