Anatolia, a region shaped by civilizations dating back to the dawn of humanity, is a cultural melting pot. Among the many legacies embedded in its rich heritage, the influence of Byzantine (Eastern Roman) music on Classical Turkish Music—particularly the tradition that evolved during the Ottoman era—remains a subject of both academic debate and musical fascination. Despite nationalist arguments that sometimes obscure …
Holding the distinction of being Turkey’s largest island, Gökçeada encompasses numerous important historical and natural beauties within its 286 square kilometers of land and a coastline stretching for 95 kilometers. Situated north of the Aegean Sea, Gökçeada has been within the borders of the Republic of Turkey since 1923, belonging to Çanakkale. With its rich history, natural beauty, and several …
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 …
Side, a neighborhood of Manavgat in the beautiful province of Antalya, is known for its historic ruins and monumental structures that have survived to this day. The word “Side” means pomegranate, and the area hosts a history that dates back to the 7th century BC. The region, believed to have first been settled during the Hittite period, saw ancient cities …
Datça, one of the most beautiful tourist districts of Muğla, Turkey, is built on a peninsula extending into the Aegean Sea. With its mountainous and rugged terrain, Datça is completely surrounded by the Aegean Sea. Archaeological excavations have revealed that Datça dates back to 2000 BC, with the ancient city of Knidos established there. The city later came under Hittite …
Marmaris, one of the beautiful districts of Muğla, is recognized as a tourism paradise. It is bordered by the Datça Peninsula and the Gulf of Gökova to the west, Karadağ and Günlük Hills to the north, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. The town, with settlements dating back to 1200 BC, has always been a center of attraction. It …
This picturesque coastal town, once ruled by Romans, Byzantines, and later the Seljuks, holds a rich legacy as a strategic port city. The Seljuk-era shipyards and its enduring Ottoman significance highlight deep historical roots of Alanya. Climate & Cuisine This town boasts a Mediterranean climate, with hot, sunny summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination for year-round travel. …
A Brief History of Bozcaada With roots stretching back to the Trojan Wars, Bozcaada has seen Ionian, Persian, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations. It was ruled by the Venetians and Genoese before being conquered by the Ottomans under Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1455. Famous Ottoman navigator Piri Reis mapped the island, naming it Bozcaada. Historically, Greeks and Turks coexisted on the …
The Aegean’s Hidden Gem on the Coast of İzmir Nestled on the scenic coastline of İzmir, Foça is a stunning blend of ancient heritage, natural beauty, and culinary richness. Known for its crystal-clear waters, charming harbor, and deep historical roots, Foça is one of Turkey’s most captivating coastal destinations. Foça’s history dates back to the ancient Ionian period, when it …
Turkey has a unique multi-cultural structure, and yet it boasts a legitimate unity, which proves to be quite an important element. Jewish culture, adapted to contemporary life while preserving the religion, constitutes one link in this chain. The history of Jewish people in Turkey dates back almost 2,400 years. Turkish Jews are one of the biggest non-Muslim communities in the …