When people think of the Ottoman Empire, images of grand palaces, sultans, and the harem often come to mind. Yet, one of the most mysterious and misunderstood figures within this world is the Ottoman harem aghas; a eunuch who wielded significant power behind palace walls. The lives of these individuals, especially during the height of the Ottoman Empire, are full …
One of the lesser-known stories of the conquest of Constantinople is the brave resistance of 300 Cretan warriors and how Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror allowed them to leave; a story truly worth reading. Fatih Sultan Mehmed and His Respect for the Enemy Fatih Sultan Mehmed… he was undoubtedly a commander who earned the title “Conqueror” through his rationality, scientific approach, …
Gevher Nesibe is the daughter of II. Kılıçaslan, one of the Seljuk rulers. This Turkish girl, with black eyebrows, black eyes, black hair, and a fair face, captures the heart of a commander in the Seljuk army. However, Nesibe’s brother, Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev I, is against this love. He looks for ways to keep the commander away from Kayseri and sends …
Located in the northeastern corner of Turkey, Artvin is one of the country’s last untouched paradises. Known for its unspoiled nature and breathtaking landscapes, Artvin is home to many natural wonders, and one of the most captivating among them is Şavşat Karagöl. Just 25 kilometers from Şavşat district, Karagöl sits within Sahara Karagöl National Park, an area divided into two …
“The ferry gleams at the pier, reflecting the soft morning light.A gentle chill hangs in the air,The sea smells of tar and fish,I’ve crossed to the other side in a rowboat from the bridge,And in one breath, climbed our familiar hill…” So begins Turgut Uyar’s poem “Ver Elini Haydarpaşa”, evoking memories that every İstanblue carries. The ferry is more than …
If you ever visited Turkey, you know that bread is a key component of in Turkish cuisine. Bread has always held a central place in Anatolian and Ottoman societies; cutting across all social layers, from the humble peasant to the imperial sultan. Beyond sustenance, it symbolizes loyalty, gratitude, sacred bond, and self‑reliance. The Turkish language reflects this depth with idioms …
Nestled along Turkey’s southwestern coast, Muğla is a province famous for its breathtaking beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant cultural heritage. Beyond its natural beauty, Muğla boasts a lively festival calendar throughout the year that showcases its rich traditions, culinary delights, music, and arts. From Bodrum’s glamorous events to Fethiye’s folk celebrations, here’s your comprehensive guide to Muğla festivals. Spring – …
Who Were the Tülütabaklar? Tülütabaklar were local heroes in Balıkesir during the Turkish War of Independence. These brave leatherworkers -called debbağ in Turkish- used fear and theatrical performance to disrupt Greek occupation forces and support underground national meetings. Clad in goat or sheepskin, soot, horse tails, bells, and sticks, they frightened enemy soldiers, creating an atmosphere of psychological resistance. Etymology: …
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 …
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 …