The Kaleiçi Old Town Festival, organized by Muratpaşa Municipality in the historical city center of Antalya, where one side opens to the endless blue of the Mediterranean and the other extends into history with streets and squares surrounded by mansions and bougainvillea, has begun. The gala dinner of the festival, which this year features participation from 23 cities across 18 countries, was held at Akra Antalya. The night, hosted by Mayor Ümit Uysal and his wife Ümran Uysal, was attended by Antalya Governor Hulusi Şahin and Muratpaşa District Governor İhsan Kara, along with their spouses.

THE PAST SHOULD SHED LIGHT ON THE FUTURE
In his speech during the event, Mayor Uysal stated that the purpose of the festival is to make cultural assets visible, protect cultural heritage, and keep it alive. He emphasized that if humanity fails to protect its cultural assets and heritage, there will be a decrease in both peace and aesthetics in the world. Mayor Uysal said, "No matter how much humanity's story, or humanity's future, is equipped with high technology or how quickly life changes, humanity’s past must shed light on its future, and we must ensure that humanity does not repeat the mistakes of the past."

'WE NEED TO WORK TOGETHER'
Mayor Uysal also explained that the Kaleiçi Old Town Festival is, in this context, an awareness campaign. While strengthening friendships between different countries and cities, the festival also aims to develop a common search for solutions to shared problems. Thanking everyone who contributed, Mayor Uysal said, "We must continue to work together; both the world and our cities need this."

SERVING PEACE THROUGH TOURISM
In his speech, Governor Şahin emphasized that conflicts arise due to a lack of dialogue and prejudices. He said:
“Kaleiçi is one of the most important and oldest ancient harbors in world history. Just as this harbor served peace in the past, today Antalya, which has grown around the harbor, continues to serve peace through tourism and trade, helping us to better understand one another and leave a better world for the future. The Kaleiçi Old Town Festival lays the foundations for working towards a better world.”