Iskenderun, formerly Alexandretta, was founded by Alexander the Great after his victory over the Persians on the Plain of Issos. Today it is a busy commercial center and port with a fine harbour. Excellent hotels, restaurants and cafes line the seafront surrounded by parks and palm trees. The culinary speciality of Iskenderun is delicious prawns. Gourmets should also try kunefe, a hot dessert of sweetened shredded wheat filled with melted cheese, and humus, an appetiser of pureed Chickpeas, garlic and paprika. Good souvenirs include handcarved wooden tables and chairs and other objects of wood.

History
Foundations of Alexandretta city is laid on 333 B. C., with Persia Emperor 3rd Darius is sustained a defeat by Macedonian King Alexander the Great in Issos Valley. İskenderun, had also lived the Roman, Bizantium and Ottoman periods.

Climate
Summers are too hot in İskenderun, where Mediterranean climate is dominating. Plateaus of province, where winters are rainy, are cooler than coastal area.

High Plateaus
Nergislik Plateau is the important plateau of the province.

Access

Road
Road transportation from Iskenderun to various places of the country is maintained.

Railroad
Railway transportation from Iskenderun to various places of the country is maintained.

Maritime Lines
There are 2 two – way voyages per week from Iskenderun to Cyprus.