A High-Tech Network of the Middle Ages Centuries ago, during the height of the Byzantine Empire’s power, the state operated a remarkably efficient communication system that spanned vast territories. This system, based on strategically placed beacon towers (called Byzantine beacon communication system), enabled rapid message transmission across great distances—long before the age of modern technology. The Beacon Line from Cilicia …
Overlooking the vast Mesopotamian plain from just 4 kilometers east of Mardin, Deyrulzafaran Monastery stands as one of the oldest and most revered Syriac Christian sites in the world. Also known as the Saffron Monastery (from the Turkish “Safran”), this extraordinary spiritual complex is not only a religious pilgrimage site but also a powerful symbol of cultural resilience. Originally constructed …
Emerging from the ancient Phrygian Valley nestled between Afyonkarahisar, Eskişehir, and Kütahya, the Phrygian cap—also known as the red cap of liberty—has silently wrapped itself around global revolutions and independence movements. But how many know its Anatolian origin? Did you know that the same red cap seen during the French Revolution, the American struggle for independence, the coats of arms …
From the 13th century onward in Europe, being Turkish often meant being Muslim, and vice versa. This association became so prominent that Turks were recognized as Muslims not just in their own lands but throughout Europe and beyond. However, the Turkish identity spans thousands of years, encompassing diverse religious traditions. While Islam is the predominant faith among Turks, there are …
Introduction: A Bloodline Secured by Bloodshed The Ottoman Empire, one of the most powerful dynasties in history, spanned over six centuries. But behind the grandeur of its palaces and military conquests lay a brutal political reality: the systematic elimination of male relatives to secure the throne. Known as **fratricide**, this practice was not only accepted but legalized, institutionalized, and, at …
Located 79 kilometers from Yozgat city center, the Sarıkaya Hot Springs are among Turkey’s most important health tourism destinations. With a history stretching back to the Hittite era, the region has witnessed civilizations from the Assyrians to the Romans, all drawn to its therapeutic thermal waters. During the Roman period, Sarıkaya became a well-known spa town, and to this day, …
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 …
One of the most fascinating and unique parts of Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula is undoubtedly the Golden Horn. Once polluted by industrial and domestic waste, it lost much of its charm for decades. However, with major cleanup efforts beginning in the mid-1990s, the Golden Horn has gradually reclaimed its former glory. Today, it ranks among the top destinations preferred by international …
Do you know the meaning of “Istanblue“? It is best to discover the city just in sunset blue specific to Istanbul, with views from the best rooftops. From breathtaking panoramic views to chic atmospheres, these rooftop bars and lounges offer the perfect escape above the city’s energy. Sip signature cocktails while soaking in the Bosphorus, the historic skyline, and the …
The origin of famous Turkish foods is an indispensable topic at international “food nights” where there is at least one Turk present… For example, if there is döner on the table, a Turk, a Greek, and an Arab will each claim that this dish originally belongs to their own culture (not even citing Germans who recently joined the race!). The …