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 …
As is well known, Sultan Abdülaziz was the first and only sultan of the Ottoman Empire to undertake a trip abroad. That journey not only brought us a romantic tale but also gave birth to the dish Hünkarbeğendi. Let’s go back to the year 1867, 154 years ago, when this story began. A Captivating Encounter in Paris: When Abdülaziz Met …
“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 very concept …
In a heartwarming example of compassion, Imam Mustafa Efe, the imam of Aziz Mahmud Hüdayi Mosque in Üsküdar, Istanbul, became a global symbol of kindness when he opened the mosque’s doors to street cats. His gentle embrace of these animals—allowing them to roam freely even during prayers and sermons—struck a chord not only in Turkey but around the world. Nicknamed …
Overview of Bursa Ulu Mosque The Bursa Ulu Mosque (Ulu Cami) is one of the most iconic religious structures in Turkey. While many mosques across Anatolia are named “Ulu Mosque,” this one in Bursa, commissioned by Ottoman Sultan Yıldırım Beyazıt, stands out for its historical, architectural, and spiritual significance. Built between 1396 and 1400, the mosque is a landmark of …
One of the prominent figures in archaeological collaboration between Turkey and Japan, Japanese archaeologist Sachihiro Omura, passed away last month in Kırşehir. Living in Turkey since 1972 and serving as the excavation director at Kalehöyük since 1985, Omura passed away at Kaman State Hospital, where he had been admitted due to illness. According to some sources, Omura was born in …
Gölyazı Village, nestled on the shores of Lake Uluabat in Bursa, Turkey, is an enchanting destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, deep historical roots, and tranquil village atmosphere. Recognized by the Association of Japanese Travel Agencies as one of Europe’s 30 most beautiful towns, Gölyazı blends Ottoman-era charm with ancient Roman heritage, making it a must-visit spot for travelers …
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 the story. …