Search Results for: edirne

Topkapı Palace

Topkapı Palace, once the administrative and residential heart of the Ottoman Empire for over 600 years, now stands as one of Istanbul’s most iconic museums. Built by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror after the conquest of Constantinople, the palace was originally known as the “New Palace.” Unlike many other royal residences, it is recognized for its modest architecture and close connection to …

Bâleybelen: Unveiling the World’s First Constructed Language from Turkey

Muhyî-i Gülşenî, born in Edirne in 1528, was a prominent figure and the leader of the Gülşenî community in Cairo. The reason behind Muhyî-i Gülşenî’s creation of Bâleybelen, which was a result of the use of multiple languages in the region, was quite similar to Zamenhof’s creation of Esperanto. Additionally, one of his significant goals was to facilitate the transmission …

Ottoman Bird Houses: Architectural Symbols of Compassion and Craftsmanship

The history of bird houses goes way back. The construction of bird palaces and houses, which has been developing since the 15th century in accordance with classical Ottoman architecture, reached different aesthetic dimensions through the 19th century. In fact, the purpose of making bird palaces is to provide shelter to freely flying birds, to protect them from burning sun and …

Exploring Turkey’s Islamic Treasures: Historic Mosques & Timeless Artifacts

One of the most fertile geographies for Islamic tourism is Anatolia, especially during the month of Ramadan, where you can make different plans for Islamic sightseeing tours. We have identified different routes related to Islamic artifacts, mosques, and shrines that you can see in Anatolia, both during and not during Ramadan.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey

Turkey’s name is in the World Heritage list, a compilation determined by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO); its natural and cultural assets are under protection. The natural and cultural sites in Turkey number 22 total, according to UNESCO.

Scenic Train Routes in Turkey: Explore the Country’s Most Beautiful Rail Journeys

In the last couple of years, the advertisement of the East Express, which once again attracted popularity of scenic train routes, brought the train trip back to the agenda. We have compiled the best routes you can take by train. Thus, you can get rid of the hustle and bustle of highway traffic and make an unforgettable journey with your …

Origin of Vampires: The Forgotten Roots of Vampire Myth in Turkish Folklore

The vampire myth is believed to have originated in the west by the great influence of popular culture. While witches and ghouls are popular in the East, the “vampire” is seen as a product of western culture. However, one of the biggest symbols of the vampire cult, Count Dracula, was also sourced from Vlad III, who was a prince that …

Top Birdwatching Destinations in Turkey: From Manyas Bird Paradise to Akyatan Lagoon

Birdwatching, known as “looking at nature through the world of birds” by those who are interested in wildlife observation, is attracting the attention of a growing population. It is especially famous in the ecotourism spots of Turkey. Our country is the permanent home to 465 kinds of birds, which is equal to the total number in Europe. Therefore, Turkey has …

Local Festivals in Turkey: From Oil‑Wrestling to Cherry, Wine & Orange Blossom Celebrations

Many different activities are held in our country, in both the East and West, reflecting each area’s geography, culture, and lifestyle. Festivals are organized periodically in important cities and towns that hold significance from a historical perspective and in contemporary times. We have compiled a list of Turkey’s local festivals, which contribute to the country’s most active periods of tourism. …