One of the greatest travelers in the world, Ibn Battuta, traveled to various parts of the world for 28 years. Surpassing even Marco Polo in both the scope of his travels and his detailed accounts, one of the regions he visited was Anatolia. He praised Anatolia with the words: “This land known as the Land of the Romans (Rum) is …
Until recently, it was believed that beer was discovered in Egypt around 5,000 years ago and spread to other regions from there. However, increasing research over the past decade suggests that origins of beer was an innovation of pre-agricultural hunter-gatherer societies, dating back 12,000 to 13,000 years. Advances in archaeology show that beer is humanity’s oldest beverage, and Anatolia played …
Simit, known as simid-i halka during the Ottoman era, has transformed over centuries from a humble bread ring into one of Turkey’s most beloved snacks. Far more than just food, it is an integral part of Turkish culture, evoking warmth, nostalgia, and simple joys. The Perfect Companion for Tea Breaks Throughout Turkey, simit is inseparable from tea. A cup of …
Overlooking the vast Mesopotamian plain from just 4 kilometers east of Mardin, Deyrulzafaran Monastery stands as one of the oldest and most revered Syriac Christian sites in the world. Also known as the Saffron Monastery (from the Turkish “Safran”), this extraordinary spiritual complex is not only a religious pilgrimage site but also a powerful symbol of cultural resilience. Originally constructed …
Today, Tatvan, a district of Bitlis, has surpassed Bitlis both in terms of population and social life and culture. It’s easy to say this today, but back in 1946, Tatvan was not even considered a district; it was a vast area with no roads or schools, much less the status of a village. Fethi Algon, sent to Tatvan from Istanbul, …
Ilgaz Mountain and its surrounding region, designated a national park in 1976, is the highest point in the Western Black Sea Region. This natural wonder is renowned for its year-round recreational appeal. Situated between Kastamonu and Çankırı, and accessed through a mountain pass at 1,875 meters altitude, Ilgaz forms a 50 km circular massif. The national park not only boasts …
This guide combines Istanbul’s major annual festivals with district-specific cultural events. Each entry includes name, location, topic, organizer, and website (if available). Major Annual Festivals in Istanbul 📅 January – March 2026 Artists’ Film International & BIENALSUR – Istanbul Modern When: 23 Dec 2025 – 16 Jan 2026 Where: Istanbul Modern (new building, Karaköy) About: International artists’ film/video programs from …
Whether you’re gliding through the air, screaming down rapids, or conquering icy summits, Turkey offers an extreme sports adventure for every thrill seeker. Ready to take the leap? Turkey’s stunning geographic diversity -mountains, canyons, coastlines, rivers- makes it a top destination for adrenaline junkies. From soaring heights to roaring waters, here are the top extreme sports in Turkey you shouldn’t …
Located in the Western Black Sea region and a charming and beautiful district of Bartın province, Amasra has been attracting a significant number of domestic and foreign tourists recently. According to archaeological excavations, Amasra’s history dates back 3,000 years. Around the 13th century, the city was dominated by the Genoese and later taken over by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1460 …
Istanbul and the Kebab Culture In the 1980s, tourists visiting Istanbul often associated the city with three essential experiences: rakı, shish kebabs, and the city’s vibrant atmosphere. From an Orientalist perspective, kebabs were considered the quintessential dish of Istanbul and Anatolia, representing the culinary soul of the East. Today, kebab culture is stronger than ever. With the rise of fast …