Search Results for: Mediterranean

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 …

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 …

Discover the Ancient City of Olympos

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 …

The Top Extreme Sports to Try in Turkey

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 miss: 1. …

Is Byzantine Music the Ancestor of Classical Turkish Music?

Anatolia, a region shaped by civilizations dating back to the dawn of humanity, is a cultural melting pot. Among the many legacies embedded in its rich heritage, the influence of Byzantine (Eastern Roman) music on Classical Turkish Music—particularly the tradition that evolved during the Ottoman era—remains a subject of both academic debate and musical fascination. Despite nationalist arguments that sometimes obscure …

Side Travel Guide

Side, a neighborhood of Manavgat in the beautiful province of Antalya, is known for its historic ruins and monumental structures that have survived to this day. The word “Side” means pomegranate, and the area hosts a history that dates back to the 7th century BC. The region, believed to have first been settled during the Hittite period, saw ancient cities …

Döner Kebab: The Origins

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 …

Fethiye Travel Guide

Fethiye, the second-largest district of Muğla after Bodrum, is located in a very active location in terms of tourism. Surrounded by the province of Antalya to the east and southeast, the Mediterranean Sea to the southwest and west, and Dalaman to the northwest and Denizli and Burdur to the north, Fethiye is also home to very important ancient cities like …