When faith tourism is mentioned, Hatay, one of the very popular cities in our country, stands out with its history as well as the beauty that it provides to tourists. St. Simeon Monastery is one of those highly respected areas not only for Christians but for all culture and history enthusiasts.
Established by Alexander the Great around 300 B.C, Hatay (Antakya) province belongs to Mediterranean Region. However, the city’s history has carried older elements than establishment period to our day. Hatay is surrounded by Adana, Osmaniye, Gaziantep, Kilis, and Syria and features a coast on the Mediterranean Sea. Having acted as a bridge between Mesopotamia and the eastern Mediterranean, Hatay was …
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 …
Geographical Indications (GI) are names or signs used on products that correspond to a specific geographical location or origin, signifying a product’s unique qualities, reputation, or production methods. In the EU, these are formally categorized as PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and PGI (Protected Geographical Indication). GIs protect traditional knowledge, prevent imitation, and help consumers identify high-quality local products. They …
Located in the historic city of Hatay (Antakya), Turkey, Habibi Neccar Mosque is one of the most significant religious and architectural landmarks in Anatolia. Built in 638 AD by Muslim Arabs, it is believed to be the first mosque constructed within the borders of Anatolia. Beyond its historical value in Islam, the site also holds deep importance for Christianity due to its …
Monumental trees across different regions of Turkey have been officially registered for protection and recognized as natural heritage, standing as witnesses to history. From Hatay to Zonguldak, Şanlıurfa to Antalya, these natural treasures towering towards the sky are being preserved for future generations. Locals often rest in their shade, gather underneath them, and cherish them as part of their memories. …
Rising 2,150 meters above sea level in the Kahta district of Adıyaman, Turkey, Mount Nemrut may not be the tallest peak in the region—but it stands among the most significant archaeological and cultural landmarks in the world. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987, Mount Nemrut is home to colossal sculptures and stone terraces that date back to …
Hatay, a region often described as a cultural mosaic, has been home to many civilizations and diverse cultures over millennia. Known for its tolerance, multicultural fabric, and religious harmony, Hatay continues to captivate history lovers and travelers alike. One of its most impressive historical landmarks is the Titus Tunnel, located in the Samandağ district. This ancient Roman structure is not …
Born in 1881 in Thessaloniki, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk continues to hold a special place in the hearts as the founder of modern Turkey. At a time when the Ottoman Empire, which had lasted for six centuries, was beginning to crumble due to various reasons such as politics, economy, and education, and when many parts of Anatolia were under occupation, Atatürk …
The value of coffee and tea in human life cannot be underestimated. The plants that produce these commodities are not grown in every country, but it is known that tea was first used in China about 2000 years ago BC, and generally, British society is known for its tea. But the Turks also deserve credit! Turks have a Turkish tea …