A beloved treasure of Turkish cuisine, lokum –known worldwide as Turkish Delight- is a time-honored symbol of hospitality. Carefully arranged in elegant bowls and offered with ceremony, lokum is traditionally presented to guests by the youngest member of the household. Its irresistible sweetness is enjoyed by everyone, from children to elders, making it a staple of festive gatherings. Especially associated …
One of the many ways people have expressed their aesthetic sense throughout history is through the art of mosaic. Mosaic art involves decorating surfaces by assembling small pieces of different colors and shapes. The history of mosaics stretches back to ancient times. In the Sumerian city of Uruk, wall coverings resembling mosaics from the 3rd millennium BCE have been found. …
The Mapuche are indigenous people of South America, primarily in Chile and Argentina. The Turks trace their origins to Central Asia, with centuries of migration into Anatolia and beyond. At first glance, these two peoples seem entirely unrelated: separated by oceans and continents. Yet, a growing body of linguistic and cultural observations raises an intriguing question: Could the Mapuche and …
From Ephesus Ruins to the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, and from Zelve-Paşabağları to Galata Tower; many of us have explored these landmarks during the day. But how about seeing these silent witnesses of history under the stars? Thanks to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s Night Museum Program, first launched in 2024 and expanded in 2025, select museums now remain open …
The Hittites -also known as the Etes in ancient sources- were one of the most significant civilizations of Anatolia, ruling from around 1650 BCE to 1200 BCE. They spoke Hittite and Luwian, members of the Anatolian branch of Indo-European languages, and employed both hieroglyphic and cuneiform scripts. Migrating from the Caucasus in small groups toward the end of the 3rd …
The Michelin Guide 2026 for Türkiye was officially unveiled in December 2025, marking a significant moment for the country’s gastronomic scene. The announcement brought a broader geographic coverage, new starred restaurants, and greater international attention to local cuisine. Key Figures from the 2026 Selection Total restaurants listed: 171 Restaurants with Michelin Stars: 17 Two Michelin Stars: 2 One Michelin Star: …
Ankara and its surrounding areas have been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times. The known history of Ankara stretches back to the Paleolithic Age. With a history spanning approximately 5,000 years, urban life in Ankara is believed to have continued uninterrupted. Its significance, which began due to its position on the ancient Royal Road, continues today as the capital of modern …
Gülhane Park is one of the oldest and most historic parks in Istanbul. If you’re looking to escape the city’s noise and crowds, relax beneath century-old trees, read a book, or stroll along paths lined with vibrant flowers, Gülhane Park is the perfect destination. We’ve put together a 9-point guide to help you explore this timeless gem. A Royal Garden …
Börek, a savory pastry shaped with thin layers of dough filled with cheese, minced meat, spinach, or potatoes, has not only delighted palates for centuries but also served as a cultural bridge connecting civilizations. As ordinary as a street simit and as regal as a palace dish, börek has a far deeper and richer past than commonly assumed. From the …
In a cuneiform tablet describing the Assyrian campaign of 856 BCE, it is recorded that the Assyrian army halted at Tushpa –the city that would later become the capital of Urartu- and there received tribute. Assyrian sources of the period refer to Lake Van as the “Upper Sea”. On the eastern shore of this great inland lake -1,665 meters above …