Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 9.12.1988

List Reference: 485 Criteria: Natural/ Cultural

SACRED LAND CLAD IN WHITE

According to the legend that spread the mystery of Hierapolis to the wide world, an ugly shepherd girl, fed up with the burdens of life, cast herself into water, but turned into a beautiful maiden in the waters of Hierapolis.

Hierapolis was founded during the Phrygian era, and its name was derived from Hiera, the beautiful wife of Telephos, the King of Pergamon. Hierapolis played an important role in spreading Christianity in Asia Minor, and it was the place where Phillip, one of the twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, died. For this reason, Hierapolis became an important religious centre in the 4th century AD. Later it assumed the title of the Guide of the East and saw its most brilliant years between 96 and 162 AD. Hierapolis came under Byzantine rule in 395, and became a metropolitan bishopric.

History and nature meets in an extraordinary manner at Pamukkale. The name Hierapolis also means the sacred city. It has the Necropolis, the Domitian Road and gate, the temple of Plutonium set in a square area, the theatre with reliefs depicting the mythology of Apollo and Artemis, the Frontinus street and Gate, the Agora, the North Byzantine Gate, the South Byzantine Gate, the Gymnasium, The Fountain with Triton, the House with Ionic capitals, the Apollo sacred site, the aqueducts and Nympheum, the city walls, the Martyrium of St. Phillip and bridge, the Column Church, the ruins of Basilica and Roman Baths. These are still standing in all their glory.

The Pamukkale travertine was created by thermal water depositing the calcium carbonate it contained. The natural wonder of Pamukkale travertine deposits span a 160 metres tall and 2700 metres long cascade. With its brilliant white colour, it can be seen about a distance of 20 km. At Pamukkale there are 17 thermal springs with water temperatures between 35-100-C.

The thermal mineral water springs and exceptional scenery have impressed people since antiquity. Wealthy people came from Rome and other cities of Anatolia to spend their last years in Hierapolis. Because of this, the Necropolis (the grave yard) is full of monumental tombs decorated in the styles of different regions.

The historical artefacts found in the excavations are on display at the Archaeology Museum of Hierapolis. The Tripolis antic city in Buldan County and Colossea antic settlement in Hozanz County are the most important of all antic settlements In the region.

This sacred land clad in white is waiting for those who want to heal in its waters with a natural therapy.

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Pamukkale (Hierapolis) Pamukkale Pamukkale Pamukkale

Cappadocia Baloon

Cappadocia

Cappadocia

Cappadocia

Cappadocia

Cappadocia

Nevşehir Cappadocia cafe

Nevşehir Cappadocia Baloon

Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 6.12.1985

List Reference: 357 Criteria:Natural/ Cultural

DESIGNED BY NATURE: CAPPADOCIA

Cappadocia, which was inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985 on natural and cultural criteria, Is situated at a distance of 14 km from Nevsehir, and it covers a 40 square km area between the county seats of Avanos and Urgup.

Goreme National Park and Cappadocia is a unique design of nature with slopes full of fairy-chimneys, rich water resources at the base of the valley, abundant flora, and numerous rock cut, frescoed churches.

Cappadocia, which was sculpted out of the tuff of the Erclyes and Hasan Mountains through millions of years by sand and water erosion, became the seat of several civilisations, and a silent witness to the cultural history of Anatolia. Cappadocia also covers underground cities. These enchanting and only partially revealed subterranean cities of Cappadocia are believed to have deeper levels awaiting exploration. The most extraordinary underground cities are in the regions of Kaymakli, Derinkuyu, Mazl Ozkonak and Tatlarin. The underground cities, for long periods used as sanctuaries, were recently renovated and made available to visitors.

Visitors to Cappadocia encounter the most select examples of Seljuk and Ottoman art and architecture. The caravanserais of Egri Minare, Alayhan and Sultanhani, the caravanserai of Sarlhan, Tasklnpasa Mosque of Urgup, Sungur Bey and the Alaaddln Mosques of Nigde are among the many buildings worth visiting.To explore this mysterious territory and to witness its harmony of humanity and nature you should also visit Urgup, Uchisar, Avanos, Goreme, Cavusin, Ortahisar, Ihlara Gorge, Sinnassos (Mustafapasa), Soganli Gorge, Zelve Gorge and Guverclnlik Gorge.

Capadoccia, which reflects the harmonization of nature and mankind, is waiting for those who would like to discover this mysterious territory and witness the unique design of nature.

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Zelve Open Air Museum Goreme Cappadocia Goreme / Cappadocia Cappadocia Avanos Cappadocia

Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 9.12.1988

List Reference: 484 Criteria: Cultural

LANDS OF EPOPES

Xanthos, which was the capital of Lycia between 700 and 300 BC, is known as the largest administrative centre of Lycia during antiquity. Letoon, which was Inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List together with Xanthos in 1988, was one of the most prominent religious centres of antiquity.

Xanthos (Arrina) is where Serpedon lived. Sarpedon encouraged Prince Hector during the Trojan War by writing a poem to him. The site is on the road between Fethiye and Kas, 46 km from Fethiye. It Is part of present-day Kinik village, on the Esen, a stream separating the provinces of Mugla and Antalya.

The archaeological value of Xanthos and Letoon make them very important parts of world heritage. The sites are about 4 km apart.

The original Lycian sarcophagi once situated just above the amphitheatre, and the original Harpy Tomb are In the British Museum.

The sanctuary of Leto was discovered in 1840. There are a six-row theatre, a basilica, Inscription tablets, three temples, a round portico attached to the cult building of the empire and an L shaped stoa. In the ancient city, there are three temples devoted to Leto and her twin sons. Leto’s twins, Apollo and Artemis, were deities, and were honoured, like their mother, with a temple each.

The largest temple, devoted to the mother of Artemis and Apollo, is the Leto Temple built on the west side In perìpteros style. It Is 30.25m by 15.75m. On the east side the Apollo Temple is in the Doric style and it is 27.90m by 15.07m.

The Apollo Temple looks exactly like the houses depicted In the Lycian tombs. The foundation remains are noteworthy since they have a timber structure. The lesser Artemis Temple Is situated between the other two temples. It Is 18.20m by 8.70m.

As water levels have risen since antiquity, the lower parts of the buildings are now under water.

Xantos with its spectacular theatre, structural ruins, mosaics, and the underground ruins waiting to be uncovered and Leton with its Leto, Apollon and Artemis temples, monastery, fountain, and Roman theatre ruins are waiting for their visitors to tell their tales.

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EDIRNE

Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex

Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 27.06.2011

List Reference: 1366

Criteria : Cultural

A Master work of Classical Ottoman Architecture

Edirne was the capital of the Ottoman Empire prior to the conquest of Istanbul and is famous for its mosques, the elegant domes and minarets, where as Selimiye is the most important monument in this historic city. The complex built in the historic centre of Edirne comprises, two madrasas, a primary school and a covered bazaar besides this magnificient mosque. Carrying the name of the then reigning the Sultan Selim II, the Mosque was ?built by architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century.

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Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 2012

List Reference: 1405 Criteria: Cultural

Another time, another life

Catalhoyuk at Cumra, 45 km south of Konya, is a fascinating Neolithic site in Central Anatolia dating from the 10th-8th millennium B.C., which makes it one of the world’s oldest towns. The best known period of urbanization in Catalhoyuk lie between layers 7 and 11. Houses with square walls were adjacent but didn’t share common walls (each house had their own walls). Houses were planned separately, and one house was built next to another whenever there was a need to do so. Because of the adjacent walls of the houses, there were no streets in the city. Archaeologists have determined that holes in the roofs of the mud houses were the entrance doors. Ankara’s Museum of Anatolian Civilizations houses the famous temple-house (reconstructed), along with mother-goddess Cybele figures, obsidian and clay objects and Neolithic frescoes from the original site. The wall pictures in Catalhoyuk were found in layers 10 and 11. The most beautiful and sophisticated ones belong to the seventh and fifth layers. These pictures are the continuation of the tradition started by Palaeolithic man, who made pictures on cave walls. They might have also believed that these pictures would bring them luck in hunting. In later ages, we see that home decorations confined themselves to bird patterns and geometrical designs

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Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 6.12.1987

List Reference: 448 Criteria: Cultural

THE SUN RISES AND SETS WITH A UNIQUE MAJESTY AT NEMRUT MOUNTAIN!

The Nemrut mountain side with the tumulus containing the tomb of King Antiochus of the Commagene Kingdom and several giant statues was inscribed to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1987.

Nemrut Mountain is also known as the highest open-air museum in the world. With its enchanting statues standing ten metres high, and meters long inscriptions and the ancient Commagene sanctuary, it is situated in the Kahta county of Adiyaman province.

Nemrut Mountain was one the most majestic place of worship in ancient Anatolia. According to the inscriptions, Antiochus built a monumental tomb, a tumulus of cut stones built over the tomb, and terraces along the three edges of the tumulus.

Those terraces are known as the East, West and North Terraces. On the East and West Terraces are giant statues, inscriptions and reliefs. Five statues depict the gods, and, among the deities, the figure of Antiochus.

The East and West terraces have five statues of gods, set in the same order on both terraces. The statues made of stone blocks, each weighing 7-8 metric tons, sit on thrones about seven metres above the terrace floor. The heads of the statues have toppled down and are scattered on the terraces.

The row of statues starts with a lion and eagle statue. The lion, the king of animals, represents earthly power, and the eagle, herald of the gods, represents heavenly power.

The East Terrace contains the Gallery of Gods, the Gallery of Ancestors and the Altar. The West Terrace was built similarly, however it has been far better preserved. The North Terrace was used as a passageway between East and West Terraces, and it was surrounded by a sandstone wall. Behind the stone blocks making the thrones of the statues of East and West Terraces there is a cult inscription of 237 lines, written in Greek letters. The inscription was the will of Antiochus, and contains information about the sanctuary as well as rituals that should be used for practicing the cult.

The Nemrut Mountain, with the most majestic panoramas of sunrise and sunset in the world as well as Its giant statues and monumental tomb, is waiting for its visitors.

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Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 6.12.1985

List Reference: 356 Criteria: Cultural

Love of Continents: ISTANBUL

The historical areas of Istanbul, which has been the capital of three great empires, were inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985.

Istanbul, which has a history of more than 2,500 years, Is situated on a peninsula surrounded by the Marmara Sea, the Bosphorus, and the Golden Horn.

The historical areas of Istanbul, which is the only city situated on two continents are formed by four main areas: the Archaeological Park (Sultanahmet Square and its surrounding area), the Suleymaniye Mosque, Zeyrek Mosque (the Church of Christ Pantokrator) and its surrounding Conservation Area, and the City Walls of Istanbul.

Istanbul is a holy city, where mosques, churches and synagogues live side by side, and even declare their fraternity. Istanbul Is also renowned for its palaces, mansions and monumental buildings – each a unique example of architectural styles that were inherited from the Ottomans. Dolmabahce Palace, Tophane Mosque, Galata Tower (Christea Turris), built by the Genoese, Sultanahmet Mosque, Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia), one of the monumental buildings of Christianity, the unique mosaics of Ayasofya, Topkapi Palace, the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire, rising high above the Golden Horn Suleymaniye Mosque, the masterpiece of Imperial architect Mimar Slnan, the historical Kapali Carsl (the Grand Bazaar), Yerebatan Sarnici (the Basilica Cistern), the music dancing at the domes of Aya Irini (Hagia Eirene), make Istanbul the capital of history and culture.

Ayasoyfa was built on one of the most historical sites in Istanbul, and the present buildings were completed in 532-537 AD. Built as a cathedral, it served as the most important centre of Christianity approximately for 1000 years. Following the conquest of Istanbul by the Ottomans, It was converted Into a mosque. The building is used as a museum at present, and it is known that a huge sum of money was spent and ten thousand workers worked for the construction.

The most important property of the Sultanahmet Mosque right across Haiga Sofia is that it is the sole mosque constructed with 6 minarets. The mosque, which has more than 36 windows, is accessorized with more than 20,000 Iznlk tiles.

Topkapi Palace served as the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire, and today it houses the Kasikci (Spoonmaker’s) Diamond, which has a global fame. The Palace is, at present, a museum exhibiting unique artifacts from the glorious history of the Ottoman Empire.

Yerebatan Sarnici (the Basilica Cistern), which was built in between 527 and 567 in order to provide water to the settlement nearby, is situated within the Archaeological Park. According to Greek mythology, Medusa turned to stone anyone who dared to gaze directly at her. The head of Medusa carved at the column-base can be seen in the shallow waters of the cistern, and it Is one of the most visited attractions in the Park.

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Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 28.11.1986

List Reference: 377 Criteria: Cultural

OPEN-AIR MUSEUM

Hattusha, which was the capital of the Hittite Empire during antiquity, has been in the List of World Heritage since 1986 on cultural criteria. Hattusa on cultural criteria. Hattusha, which is an open-air archaeological museum, was founded around 1600 BC and became the focus of the arts and architecture of that time. Hattusha consists of two sites, the Lower City and the Upper City. Visible at the Lower City are the remains associated with civic life. The Great Temple is the principal cult building of the city. At the Upper City, the Temple Neighbourhood, encompassing several temples, Is noteworthy. Due to its two cult rooms, this temple is considered as it was devoted to the storm god and Arinna’s sun goddess which are the greatest gods of the Empire. The Upper City Is situated on a broad arch and was protected by walls to the south. There were five gates on the walls. At the southernmost edge of the city walls, which Is the highest point of the city, stand the Yerkapi ramparts and the Sphinx Gate. The King’s Gate and Lion Gate are situated at either end of the southern walls. The lion sculptures on the outer face of the Lion Gate are some of the best examples of Hittite stone carving.

Yazillkaya sanctuary, which Is situated 2 km north west of Hattusha, is considered to be the most significant open air temple of the city. It consists of two rock cut rooms screened off by a single story building reflecting the architectural style of the Hlttites. The rock cut rooms of Yazillkaya Sanctuary are called as the “Greater Gallery” (Room A) and the “Lesser Gallery” (Room B).

The western end of the rock face of the Greater Gallery (Room A) is decorated with a relief of gods, and the eastern end is decorated with a relief of goddesses. The figures of both ends face the central section, where the eastern and western rock faces meet the northern rock face. This is where the main stage was set. The Lesser Gallery (Room B), which has a separate entrance Is protected by a relief of demons with lion heads, human bodies, and wings. The relief decorating the western rock face of Room B depicts twelve gods lined up to their left, and on the eastern rock face there are reliefs depicting a deity-headed upright sword, which is believed to represent the god Nergal of Underworld, and the God Sharrumma escorting King Tudhaliya IV. In this section, besides the well preserved reliefs, there are three rock cut niches. It is believed that these niches were used for placing gifts or possibly urns containing the ashes of members of the Hittite royal family.

Hattusa is waiting for those who would like to trace the Hittite civilization by witnessing the history.

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Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 6.12.1985

List Reference: 358 Criteria: Cultural

THE MOSQUE WHERE STONES WERE DRESSED WITH LOVE

The first Turkish building inscribed to UNESCO’s World Heritage List, the Great Mosque and Hospital of Divrigi was built in the 13th century by Ahmed Shah and his wife Mellke Turan of the Principality of Mengucek. Designed by the architect Hurrem Shah, of Ahlat, in 1288, the Great Mosque of Divrigi is renowned for Its monumental architecture, its hexagonal dome, and its unique stone carving decorations.

The Great Mosque and Hospital has a plain fagade. Its status as a unique masterpiece rests on the merits of the stone carving decorations that adorn the great portal of the Hospital, the northern portal of the Mosque, the western portal of the Mosque and the portal of Shah’s dais. Each and every figure In the decoration is a unique marvel of art and architecture, as well as a feat of engineering.

Art historians and architects agree that there are no other examples of the three dimensional and Intricate geometric styles and flowing figures of plants.

Its portals appear to have borrowed from Baroque, Seljuk and Gothic styles, but nevertheless represent a unique and distinct style of their own. All figures carved on the portals and on the walls were asymmetrical and each square has thousands of stone carved figures. The main characteristic of the designs featured In the portals is their uniqueness: each is distinct from other decorations. For example, the wreath of life used on the portal on the North fagade Is noteworthy since It depicts a totally imaginary plant world that only existed in the imagination of the craftsman.

As well as portals, all bases, shafts and capitals of the columns, and the Inner surface of the dome, were decorated a different, distinct and unique style.

The Hospital, situated next to the Great Mosque Is, In itself, a masterpiece of stone carving. It shares the splendid unity of the Great Mosque. The Hospital Is a two-storey building with a central courtyard surrounded by porticoes, and designed as a hospital where cures included the soothing sound of flowing water from the fountains.

This exciting stone masterpiece shaped with love is waiting for Its visitors

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Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 17.12.1994

List Reference: 614 Criteria: Cultural

ORIGINAL EXAMPLE OF THE TRADITIONAL

Safranbolu, an Anatolian city that brings history to life through its mosques, market, neighbourhoods, streets and original houses, was inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1994.The city is in the Paflagonia region that was described by Homer in his epic poem, The Iliad and its known history dates back to 3000 BC. The city was ruled by the Hittites, the Phryigians, the Lydlans, Persions, Hellenistic Kingdoms (Ponds), Romans (Byzantines), Seljuks, Beyliks of Cobanoglu and Candaroglu, and the Ottomans respectively.

Safranbolu’s present layout and physical features were established in the 17th and 18th centuries. Safranbolu, which was one of the few cities that remained intact even In the second half of the 19th century, extended in accordance with the changing needs in time in harmony with nature.

Safranbolu’s economic muscle is reflected in the life of the city, and Safranbolu Houses reveals the city culture In an original manner. The Safranbolu Houses are the building blocks representing the Turkish city culture as Its living reminder in our times. There are about 2000 traditional Turkish houses In the county seat. Out of them, about 800 houses are under legal protection. The houses have plans that reflect the Turkish lifestyle, customs and traditions in a rich spatial arrangement. The houses are modest buildings shaped with an understanding of respect for nature and neighbour.

The overhanging extensions of the first floors of Safranbolu houses disturb the unwanted uniformity of all houses. The house windows are specially designed as narrow and tall windows. The timber window frames and sashes feature timber grills called “musabak”. Details such as timber ceilings, decorated timber wall surfaces, wrought iron door fittings, locks and keys, malakari (shallow gypsum) decorations applied on timber exteriors, and the quality of masonry work, are Important and demonstrate how aptly they complete the whole. Safranbolu is a must for those who wish to explore a city and breathe In history. Enjoy the splendid architecture and shake hands with the hospitality of Anatolia.

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Date of Inscription to the World Heritage List: 2.12.1998

List Reference: 849 Criteria: Cultural

CITY OF MYTHOLOGIES
The ancient city of Troy, famous as the site of Trojan War that Homer described in his epic poem The Iliad, was inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998.

With its four thousand year history, it is one of the most famous archaeological sites of the world. It is located on the lower slopes of the Mount Ida of antiquity, within the boundaries of Canakkale province. First mention of Troy was made by Homer in his epic poem The Iliad, where it is the ancient site of the Trojan War.

According to the Trojan Legend, the sea goddess Thetys and the titan of Atlantic Sea Oceanus had a daughter called Electra. Electra would become Zeus’s wife and would give birth to Dardanus. Dardanus would found the city of Dardania. Dardanus’s son Tros died in the Turas lands, and Darnanus’s grandson llus founded the city of Troy. Close by Mount Ida was the site of the infamous beauty contest that gave rise to the Trojan War. The three beauties of the contest were Hera, Athena and Aphrodite, and the judge was Paris. Paris chose Aphrodite, as Aphrodite promised Paris the love of Helen of Sparta, wife of king Menelaus. Paris abducted Helen and took her to Troy, provoking the war.

Troy is known to have 9 archaeological layers, and, to date, house foundations, theatres, a sewage system indicating quite advanced technology, public bath houses, and various artefacts have been found date in the various layers.

According to the excavations in Troy, the city was founded and devastated several times in its history. Consequently, layers of settlement marked 1 to 9 can be seen simultaneously.The Trojans replaced the Sardis satrapy of the Achaemenid Empire, and ruled Anatolia for 505 years until the Lydian King Candaules s reign (735-718 BC). Archaeologist Schllemann’s excavations, starting In 1871, unearthed 9 ruins of ancient cities and 42 dwellings, and King Priam’s Treasure was also found during those excavations.

Troy is waiting for those who would like to trace the stories of ancient cultures.

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Unesco World of Heritage List

Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration.

What makes the concept of World Heritage exceptional is its universal application. World Heritage sites belong to all the peoples of the world, irrespective of the territory on which they are located.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. This is embodied in an international treaty called the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage , adopted by UNESCO in 1972.The World Heritage List includes 962 properties forming part of the cultural and natural heritage which the World Heritage Committee considers as having outstanding universal value.

World Heritage List  includes 745 cultural , 188 natural  and 29 mixed  properties in 157 States Parties. As of September 2012, 190 States Parties have ratified the World Heritage Convention.

Turkey has 11  Heritages on the UNESCO World Heritage List as of 2012 .Archaeological Site of Troy (1998),City of Safranbolu (1994),Great Mosque and Hospital of Divriği (1985),Hattusha: the Hittite Capital (1986),Historic Areas of Istanbul (1985),Nemrut Dağ (1987),Neolithic Site ofÇatalhöyük (2012),Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex (2011),Xanthos-Letoon (1988)

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Hatay: Located at Turkey’s southern tip, Hatay is a center of civilization abounding in historical and cultural legacies in every corner.

The city is positioned at the geographical location connecting Anatolia the Middle East and has an incomparable historical heritage dating back to its earliest settlement in 8000 BC.

Hatay has harbored many civilizations since its inception and is one of Turkey’s border cities. The city, with its innumerable historical brilliants is truly worth exploring.

The region has a typical Mediterranean climate as its coastal area lies by the Mediterranean Sea. The hot and dry summers are followed by mild and rainy winters.

How about getting acquainted with this city where history and religion intertwines?

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Sakarya: is one of Turkey’s fastest developing cities surrounded by a lush green landscape abounding in natural wonders.

With a history dating back to the 8th century, the city has been one of the main settlements of major empires.  Naturally, the region abounds in historical sites belonging to ancient times.

Also called Adapazari as it is intertwined with Adapazri district, Sakarya abounds in rivers, springs and waterfalls. The area has a transition climate between Black Sea and Mediterranean climate and has diverse weather conditions.

A charming little getaway located in the vicinity of Istanbul, Sakarya is waiting to welcome you.

Attractions

There are many places to discover in Sakarya, which harbors all the riches of nature and shares them with visitors all the year round.

The Sakarya Museum and Ali Fuat Pasha Kuvai- Milliye Museum are among the exhibition venues where you can trace the history of the city and explore the cultural artifacts of the region.

The Justinian’s Bridge built over the Sakarya River running through the city and the Ali Fuat Pasha Bridge as well as the sarcophagi in Beşevler Village, Pasalar Castle, Seyfler Castle and Harmantepe Castle are among the well-known historic structures of the area.

While the Orhan, Yunuspasha, Sheikh Muslihiddin, Rüstem Pasha, Rahim Sultan and Hasan Fehmi Pasha mosques are among the popular religious sites you can visit; the historic Tarakli houses may attract your attention for exemplifying traditional Ottoman architecture.

The town of Sapanca, famous for its thermal springs, is another place very inviting to tourists. Sapanca is particularly preferred for its comfortable hotels and well developed thermal facilities nestled in the heart of nature.

An amazing location for outdoor sports enthusiasts, Sakarya offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors eager to spend some adrenaline-filled times. The region is gifted with numerous beautiful plateaus and innumerable rivers with ice-cold waters waiting to be explored.

There are a number of motocross and trekking trails waiting for visitors who get tired of doing water sports in the Sakarya, Sapanca and Poyrazlar lakes. Also the Gevye rock climbing area with a variety of climbing routes welcomes both rock climbers and nature enthusiasts.

Another important feature of Sakarya province is its cuisine which has emerged out of the mixture of various cultures that have coexisted for centuries.  Islama köfte (meatballs with sauce), un çorbası (flour soup), maize rice, meshed beans in addition to cotton candy and ovened sweet pumpkin are some of the local delicacies that will delight your taste buds.

Sakarya is an amazing city which welcomes visitors who want to explore the peculiarities of the region any time of the year.

Events

Dozens of festivals and events are organized all the year round to enliven your holiday with pleasant memories and cultural entertainment.

The Sakarya International Folk Dance Festival, Kirkpinar Summer Festival, Akbalık Oil Wrestling Tournament and Cigdem Plateau Festival are some of the festivities waiting for you.

Furthermore, there are a series of activities and concerts taking place at the entertainment venues and cultural centers in the city.

The city offers a variety of event alternatives to pep up your holiday if you are planning to visit this charming city!

How can I go there?

Sakarya lies in the vicinity of Istanbul offering airport service and is also accessible via bus and train.

After arriving in Istanbul via plane, visitors can continue their journey by getting on one of the intercity buses leaving from Istanbul bus terminal to Sakarya. The public transport vehicles and taxis waiting at the bus terminal will be ready to serve you.

We are sure you will have a good time during your stay in Sakarya!

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Van: Turkey’s sixth largest city and cultural legacy rich in history, monuments, natural beauty and unique flavors

One of the border cities of Turkey, Van welcomes visitors from all over the world particularly for its culture and winter tourism.

The first settlement of the city goes back to 4000 BC. Van was successively ruled by the Urartus, the Byzantines and Turkish tribes until the Ottomans took over. Naturally the city has numerous monuments and religious sites belonging to these periods.

Van, where numerous historical legacies and values are preserved with great care, welcomes a great number of visitors every year. You will not regret getting acquainted with this amazing city.

Attractions

Identified with Turkey’s largest lake Van, the city regularly welcomes a great number of tourists who want to explore the cities unique values.

Surrounded by natural wonders and a location of stunning beauty Van is a destination worth the visit. Particularly Lake Erçek is a natural wonder not to be missed.

Akdamar Island is perhaps one of the most intriguing of the precious legacies of Van province.  The church bearing the same name as the island was built sometime around 915-921 AD, and was dedicated to the Holy Cross.  Make sure to listen to the stories told by the locals if you visit this fairy tale island.

The Van Castle from the Urartu period and with a history going back to 840 BC is one of the most visited places in the province.  In addition, Cavustepe, Hosap, Ayanis castles attract the attention for their impressive architecture and scenery.

The crossroads of different religions and the home of a multitude of religious monuments, Van is surrounded with beautiful places of cultural and historic significance.

The Bartholomeus, Altinsac and Lim Monastery and Seven Churches in addition to the Hüsrev Pasha, Kaya Celebi and Izzettin Sir mosques are among the religious sites worth to sightsee.

The site of many archaeological excavations and monuments, Van takes visitors on a time travel to the ancient times. The Altıntepe, Kalecik and Yoncatepe necropolises and Tilkitepe, Karagunduz and Dilkaya mounds bear traces of the city’s earliest settlements. The Meher Gate, Yesilalic Rock Niche and Analı Kız (Mother and Daughter) Open Air Temple are some of the most important monuments.

Besides historical treasures Van offers also a wide range of activities. One can take part in a variety of cultural tours or just explore the beautiful natural sceneries.

You can take a sojourn into nature and enjoy the beautiful view of Kesis (Monk) Lake and visit Yalinca or Norduz plateau and fill your lungs with oxygen-laden fresh air. The province of Van is among the favorite locations of professional mountaineers as the region is rich in mountains such as Artos, Suphan, Erek and Nemrut Mountain. Mountaineers visiting the area can chose from a variety of climbing routes.  The Akdamar, Adir and Reşadiye regions are highly suitable places for water sports. Visitors can engage in hobbies such as scuba diving or bird watching as the area is also the habitat of different bird species like flamingos and gulls.

Van is also of great value in terms of health tourism as the region is home to a number of thermal springs located in the towns of Ercis, Catak and Baskale. Do not miss the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate at one of the thermal spas in the area.

The breakfast lounges of Van are another major tourist attraction as they are well known for offering a wide range of delicacies and breakfast options.   What’s more, the local cuisine includes a variety of delicacies such as kurut aşı (traditional soup with kashk), ciğer köfte (liver patties), tandır balığı (tandoori fish), çiriş pilav (pilaf made with herbs) and fried plums.

There a variety of reasons to explore this great city with a rich historical and cultural legacy. If you are intrigued by this city, Van is ready to welcome its guests any time of the year.

Events

The site of Turkey’s largest lake, Lake Van, and popular for its unique culture and values, Van draws attention also for its events and festivals.

International Ercisli Emrah and Selvi Culture and Art Festival and Van – Asian Silk Road Tourism Trade and Industry Fair are among the major events organized in the city. There are also a variety of traditional events organized on smaller scale that are equally intriguing to tourists in the city. You will surely have a great time!

How can I go there?

Located in the Eastern Anatolia Region and an enjoyable holiday destination with advanced transportation facilities, Van is just a flight away.

The Van Ferit Melen Airport accommodates domestic flights from all major cities in Turkey.  The public transport vehicles and taxis stationed outside of the airport exit gates will be take you to any destination within the province.

Tourists who like to travel by road can take any of the intercity busses leaving from any city in Turkey to Van. The public transport and taxis waiting outside of the Van central bus terminal will be in your service.

Wouldn’t you like to take a break and embark on a journey that combines cultural pursuits with entertaining activities and delicious tastes?

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Rize is blessed with the most beautiful nature that has been preserved over the centuries. The fresh air of Rize has a regenerative effect on you with every breath you take.

Located in the greenest area of Turkey, the Eastern Black Sea Region, Rize is renowned for its unique architecture, delicious cuisine and the hospitality of the local people.

The mild and snowy winters provide for an ideal setting for the practice of winter sports such as skiing and mountaineering. The cool summer months, on the other hand, let one experience four seasons in one day. Rize which receives rainfall in every season is one of the few regions scented with the intense smell of lush nature.

Enshrouded in a fairytale landscape with high mountains, icy rivers and misty highlands getting foggy before sunrise, the city still bears the traces of village life.

Furthermore, Rize has a rich variety of natural and cultural assets to offer such as the Firtina Stream, wooden houses, corn bread or knitted booties.

Attractions

Surrounded by high mountains and located by the deep blue sea, Rize is blessed with a rich culture and a variety of natural sites to see and numerous delicacies to taste.

Comprised of a variety of districts with unique features, Rize offers a variety of tourism alternatives that will turn your holiday into an invaluable experience.

The highlands, namely Ayder, Cad, Pokut, Sal, Elevit, Kavron, Anzer, Palovit , İkizdere and Hazindağ are the manifestations of the workings of perfect nature. You will inhale pure oxygen while marveling at the variety of flowers with different and unique scents between the trees of lush green pastures. What’s more, you can drink some fresh tea if you come across the local people living in the quaint houses in the highlands and listen to their stories.

The Rize Atatürk’s House Museum and Rize Ethnographic Museum exhibit a variety of exquisite collections ranging from archaeological artifacts to the keepsakes of Atatürk.

You will encounter traditional houses usually made of wood or stone and generally build on slopes due to the geographical formation of the area.

Some of the traditional houses which date back to previous centuries and give a picture of the architectural landscape of Rize have been turned into boutique hotels.

Once established for defense purposes, Rize Castle, Zilkale, Maiden Castle and the Kale-i Bala are among the castles opened to the public for their magnificent views. Apart from that, the famous tea plantations of Rize, which is the hub of tea production, will attract your attention for their unique scents and impress you with the delightful taste of the tea produced from these plants.

The most well-known highland, Ayder, shows not only the features of typical plateau life but is also a center of traditional entertainment and thermal tourism. In addition to Ayder;  İkizdere, Anzer and Çayeli, Kuşpa are among the other thermal springs that offer relaxation and regeneration with their healing waters.

The Kaçkar Mountains rising in the east of Rize province are among the mountain ranges of Turkey with the highest peak.  The Firtina and Ikizdere rivers have been formed by the mountain streams that come from the Kaçkars which are covered with snow in all seasons.

In addition to the streams, which are ideal locations for rafting, the area is also rich in waterfalls, creeks and lakes that mesmerize nature lovers with their beautiful sight. Apart from that, the water of the drinking fountains you may come across in different corners will appeal to your senses with its fresh and natural taste.

The Black Sea region is known for its wild seas. Yet, on days when the weather conditions are right, you may also take a dive into the sea from the shores of the coastal town of Çayeli.

The ideal location for outdoor sports such as mountaineering, trekking, kayaking, fishing and bird watching, Rize is also well-known for its local entertainment that attracts the attention of visitors and draws them in to take part.

Horon is thetraditional folk dance while tulum (bagpipe) and kemençe are the local musical instruments. Danced to a paced and rhythmic tune, Horon is not only some enjoyable dance but also a central part of social life.

Knitted booties, textiles and shawls made of local cloth, silk scarves that regional women wrap around their head with and scaly shawls are some of the peculiarities visitors like to buy as gifts to loved ones.

One of the most impressive aspects of Rize is undoubtedly its kitchen. Dishes prepared with the freshest and most natural products leave an exquisite taste on the taster’s palate. You will not be truly acquainted with Rize unless you try some of the corn bread made of completely natural butter, cheese and flour, and specialties such as mıhlama, kuymak, hamsili  pilav (pilaf with anchovies), kavurma (fried meat and pita bread) lahana sarma (cabbage rolls) laz böreği (pastry made in local style) Rize’s natural tea and Anzer honey.

There is a lot more to discover if you are ready to get to know one of the most unique cultures of Anatolia.

How can I get there?

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