Mount Hasan (Hasan Dağı) stands majestically at 3,268 meters, marking the boundary between Niğde and Aksaray provinces in central Anatolia, Turkey. As one of the most prominent volcanic mountains in Anatolia, its awe-inspiring presence dominates the flat landscapes surrounding it, creating a dramatic natural contrast that fascinates geologists, climbers, and nature lovers alike. Home to some of the most accessible and scenic climbing …
The Temple of Artemis (Greek: Artemision; Latin: Artemisium) is also known as the Temple of Diana. Dedicated to the goddess Artemis, the temple was completed around 550 BCE in Ephesus. The temple was built entirely of marble. Today, only a few marble fragments remain from the temple, which was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The …
Türkiye is home to countless archaeological sites from different historical periods. While some sites like Ephesus, Göbeklitepe, and Hierapolis are widely known, other ancient cities in Türkiye remain relatively obscure despite their incredible beauty and historical significance. Below, we present a list of these lesser-known archaeological treasures, hoping that one day, you too will explore these hidden paradises. 1. Termessos …
According to Greek mythology, Medusa, one of the three female monsters known as the Gorgons, is the only mortal among them. Medusa and her sisters, Euryale and Stheno, have live snakes instead of hair and possess the terrifying power to turn anyone who gazes into their eyes to stone. There are several different versions of Medusa’s story found in mythology. …
We’re sure many people reading this title are thinking, “No way!” right now. But there are probably just as many saying, “I knew that.” Of course, we have nothing to say to those who already know, but for those who want to remember that our country has such a unique geography, let’s dive into this trip plan and discover fairy …
“Winged birds, geese, cranes,Flocks of long-necked swansRoam in herdsOn the Asian meadows,On both sides of Kaystros…” The train departing from İzmir towards Tire winds its way through the Asian meadows mentioned in Homer’s verse above. Beyond the crescent-and-star symbol stuck on the window, cloud-topped mountains accompany the view of the plain that juts inland like a gulf into Anatolia. It …
Olympos Ancient City, nestled within the borders of Kumluca district in Antalya, Turkey, is a remarkable archaeological and natural wonder. This ancient city takes its name from Mount Tahtalı (also known as Olympos), which rises 2,375 meters high and stands just 16 kilometers to the north. As part of the legendary Lycian Way, Olympos holds great historical, cultural, and natural …
Gölyazı Village, nestled on the shores of Lake Uluabat in Bursa, Turkey, is an enchanting destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, deep historical roots, and tranquil village atmosphere. Recognized by the Association of Japanese Travel Agencies as one of Europe’s 30 most beautiful towns, Gölyazı blends Ottoman-era charm with ancient Roman heritage, making it a must-visit spot for travelers …
Politics, football, art, cinema, love, passion, anger, wealth, poverty, and history—Istanbul embodies all aspects of life and naturally becomes an indispensable setting in Turkish literature. Since the Tanzimat literary era, countless novels have been set in this culturally rich city. However, in some novels, Istanbul transcends its role as a backdrop and emerges as a central character—almost the protagonist of the story. …
Origins of Homosexuality in the Ottoman Empire According to historical records, homosexuality in the Ottoman Empire began during the reign of Orhan Bey, nearly at the time of the state’s founding. Influences from the Byzantine and Persian worlds introduced these practices to the Anatolian region, and by Orhan Bey’s time, relationships between men had already taken root in various social …