Beypazarı, one of Turkey’s most prominent cultural tourism centers, owes its reputation to its strategic location that has supported a vibrant economy throughout history, and to the diverse civilizations that have settled in this commercial hub. From its unique architecture to its rich cuisine and traditional crafts, the district offers an authentic Anatolian experience. Located 98 kilometers west of Ankara, …
The Importance of Water in Istanbul’s Urban History Water is one of the primary indicators of whether a place has evolved into a proper city. Throughout history, settlements have typically formed near water sources. Though Istanbul lacks significant rivers, its unique geography necessitated innovative solutions to water supply. For centuries, water was brought to the city via aqueducts from as …
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 …
Anatolia has a history spanning thousands of years and has hosted many significant civilizations throughout this period. Therefore, artifacts from past civilizations can be found in many parts of Anatolia. Among the most important museums where these artifacts are exhibited is the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations located in Ankara. Situated southeast of Ankara Castle, the museum was established by converting …
Türkiye is home to countless archaeological sites from different historical periods. While some sites like Ephesus, Göbeklitepe, and Hierapolis are widely known, other ancient cities in Türkiye remain relatively obscure despite their incredible beauty and historical significance. Below, we present a list of these lesser-known archaeological treasures, hoping that one day, you too will explore these hidden paradises. 1. Termessos …
“Winged birds, geese, cranes,Flocks of long-necked swansRoam in herdsOn the Asian meadows,On both sides of Kaystros…” The train departing from İzmir towards Tire winds its way through the Asian meadows mentioned in Homer’s verse above. Beyond the crescent-and-star symbol stuck on the window, cloud-topped mountains accompany the view of the plain that juts inland like a gulf into Anatolia. It …
In Turkey, discussions around films like Nymphomaniac often stir controversy. While some can view such films as art or narrative exploration, others fear they might incite uncontrolled desires. Although the film was permitted at festivals, it was banned from public cinema screenings -even with age restrictions- on the grounds that it belonged to the “pornographic” category. But what if the …
Politics, football, art, cinema, love, passion, anger, wealth, poverty, and history; Istanbul embodies all aspects of life and naturally becomes an indispensable setting in Turkish literature. Since the Tanzimat literary era, countless novels have been set in this culturally rich city. However, in some novels, Istanbul transcends its role as a backdrop and emerges as a central character; almost the protagonist of …
Ürgüp, located 20 kilometers from the city center of Nevşehir, is one of the most touristic districts in the region. Situated in Cappadocia, it has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The history of Ürgüp reaches back to the Byzantine period and has seen influences from various civilizations. The region, which became part of Turkish territory during the …
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, …