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 …
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 …
European history has long been a crossroads where different cultures meet and mingle; sometimes through wars, sometimes through diplomatic ties. Among these intersections are the fascinating stories of Turkish-origin individuals who were taken captive from Ottoman lands and later found their places among European nobles. What began amid the hardships of war sometimes turned into extraordinary lives rising to noble …
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 …
Situated in the heart of the Lycus Plain, on the southwestern border of the Phrygia region, the ancient city of Laodicea was once one of Anatolia’s largest and most prosperous metropolises. Located just 6 km north of modern-day Denizli, within the boundaries of the villages of Eskihisar, Goncalı, Korucuk, and Bozburun, Laodicea lies on the road to Pamukkale (ancient Hierapolis), …
The Aegean Region of Türkiye is a treasure trove of culinary heritage, where fertile lands and a mild climate give rise to an abundance of fresh produce, fragrant herbs, and unique wild greens. This centuries-old gastronomic tradition blends light, olive oil–based dishes with the natural bounty of the region. In the Aegean, the cuisine is not only about satisfying the …
Osman Hamdi Bey, an archaeologist, museum curator, painter, and the first mayor (Şehremini) of Kadıköy, was the first person to take official steps to protect Turkey’s cultural heritage. Born on December 30, 1842, in Istanbul, he holds a distinguished place in Ottoman history for his contributions to culture, art, and science. He was the son of Ibrahim Edhem Pasha; one …
The circumcision festival organized in 1675 by Sultan Mehmed IV for his sons went down in history not as the wedding of the year, but as the celebration of the centuries. One of the most magnificent festivities in Ottoman history was undoubtedly the circumcision feast of Sultan Mehmed IV’s sons. The celebration was so grand that it remained legendary for …
Did you know that one of the world’s most extraordinary ancient pools lies hidden in the heart of Türkiye? The Cleopatra Ancient Pool, located in the Pamukkale region of Denizli, continues to captivate travelers with its thermal healing waters, mythological legends, and magical beauty that has survived since the Roman Empire. The Beauty Secret of a Queen Legend has it …
When the Turks established their rule over Anatolian lands, they demonstrated examples of civilization that would still be considered significant today in many fields. The matter of standardization is among these achievements. Nearly five centuries ago, standardized regulations were established and strictly enforced according to the local characteristics and production varieties of cities such as Bursa, Edirne, Sivas, Erzurum, Diyarbakır, …