Search Results for: Mediterranean

Chingiz Garasharly and the Turkic Roots of Mediterranean Civilizations

Chingiz Garasharly (Professor, Doctor of Philological Sciences) was a prominent Azerbaijani linguist and historian. In his 2011 work “The Turkic Civilization Lost in the Mediterranean Basin”, Garasharly offers a radical rethinking of Mediterranean prehistory — one where Turkic roots of peoples were not only present, but foundational. The Thesis: Turks as Early Mediterranean Civilizers Garasharly challenges the mainstream idea that …

Turkish Pirates: The Rise of Ottoman Corsairs and Their Legacy in Mediterranean History

Combining truth and legend, with black eye patches and black skull flags, pirates are the fearful nightmares of sailors. Nowadays, pirates depicted in movies are barbarian haramis who seize the ships for the booty, especially in the open seas, and kill people mercilessly. However, the term Pirate in the Ottoman evokes many different meanings. Would it surprise you if we …

Phaselis Ancient City

Phaselis Ancient City, believed to have been founded in the 7th century BC on a small peninsula extending into the Mediterranean, was discovered in 1811. It takes every visitor on a journey back in time, right into the heart of nature. Some sources identify Phaselis as a Lycian city, while others consider it part of Pamphylia. Founded by Rhodian traders, …

The Secret of Piri Reis Map

One of the most brilliant figures in Ottoman maritime history, Piri Reis was not only a captain but also an explorer, scholar, and cartographer who helped shape the world. His works are timeless legacies that carry the nautical knowledge of the 16th century into the present, reflecting the spirit of the Age of Discovery. Even today, maritime historians, cartographers, and …

Dalyan: One of Turkey’s Hidden Paradises

The word “Dalyan” traditionally refers to a large fishing weir built near coastal areas, lakes, and rivers. This tranquil town in the Ortaca district of Muğla takes its name from such traditional fishing structures found along the Dalyan River. In fact, the river itself likely inherited the name from these local practices. While fishing was once the region’s primary livelihood, …

Rare Endemic Plants of Turkey

Endemic plants are species that grow naturally in a specific region and nowhere else in the world. Thanks to its geographical diversity and climate variety, Turkey is one of the countries with the highest number of endemic plants in the world. The country hosts approximately 12,000 plant species, around 3,000 of which are endemic. In this article, you will discover …

The ‘Contested’ Dish and Antakya’s Favorite: Hummus

The Middle East, a region known for rarely reaching consensus on anything, couldn’t agree on one more thing: Who owns hummus as their “national dish”? Is it Egypt’s? Lebanon’s? Israel’s? Syria’s? Iran’s? Ask any of them, and the answer will be: “It’s ours.” Hummus, which means chickpea in Arabic, is one of Antakya’s beloved staples—served sometimes at breakfast, sometimes at …

Antalya Annual Festival Guide (2025 Edition)

Antalya, Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean jewel, is not only famous for its turquoise coast and ancient ruins but also for a dynamic festival calendar that celebrates culture in many forms. Throughout the year, Antalya hosts diverse events — from internationally acclaimed film festivals to vibrant folk celebrations and gourmet food fairs. Here’s your comprehensive guide to Antalya festivals by season. Spring …

Izmir Annual Festival Guide (2025 Edition)

Izmir, the pearl of the Aegean, is not only famous for its turquoise coastline and rich history but also for its vibrant calendar of festivals that celebrate art, music, food, and local traditions. From spring to winter, the city and its surrounding districts host a variety of events — some grand and international, others intimate and deeply rooted in local …