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Scandinavians in Constantinople: The Role of Vikings in the Byzantine Empire

The Scandinavians (or Vikings) are not at all distant for Turks, especially for the people in Constantinople with tattooed, large bodies and fighter identities. Scandinavia, home of the Vikings, is the common name of countries in the cold north, including Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Faroe Islands and Greenland. Scandinavia nurtures the film industry today with its stories and legends, …

Hagia Sophia’s History

Hagia Sophia has experienced many construction processes from past to present. The first construction was started by Emperor Constantius in the Byzantine period. After this was finished, Hagia Sophia was opened for worshiping. The building was built on the Temple of Artemis with the name Hagia Sophia; it was designed with a wooden roof and had traditional Latin architecture. When …

The Historical Bond Between Turkey and Korea: A Legacy of Brotherhood

The historical bond between Turkey and Korea started on 11 August 1949. The reason why these two countries have a well-founded, positive bond is that Turkey sent soldiers to Korea during the Korean War and many of them were martyred. There is no conflict between the two countries in terms of politics because they see each other as a companion …

Exploring Turkish Philosophers: From Classical Thinkers to Modern Intellectuals

Countries gain distinction with people who can make contributions that can lead the history of civilization. In Turkish history, there are many commanders, padishahs and sultans who redrew the world map, started a new era with unique ideas, etc.. However, the number of people who universally broke new grounds in science, art and culture is not high.  Although there are …

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 …

The Story of Jet Stone

Oltu county of Erzurum is rich in culture and history. Jet stone processing is carried out as a beautiful handicraft in this county. As a highly precious commodity, jet is extracted from mines only in this area.

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.

2025 Cittaslow Towns of Turkey

Cittaslow, which first appeared in the Italian capital of Rome in 1986, means “slow city” with a broader meaning that includes untouched nature, away from the noise, distant from the metropolitan life, and reminiscent of a resort. Thus, there is no traffic problem, and the crowds and the noise is far away. Cittaslow towns for our country are almost heaven. …

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 …