Turkey Outlets and cheap shopping addresses

March 23rd, 2016

Turkey Outlets and cheap shopping addresses in Turkey

Shopping is an indispensable part of our daily life. Outlet shops have become the addresses for cheaper shopping. Many brands manufacture cheaper products especially for their outlets. List of some outlet center alternatives for cheap shopping in Turkey.

OUTLET CENTERS

Airport Outlet Center

Airport Outlet was built in place of Londra Camping in Atakoy, Istanbul and houses 116 stores. An entertainment area for children, movie theaters, an ice skating rink and amphitheater are among the facilities at the center. Famous brands such as Armani, Versace, Fred Perry, Vakko, Sarar, Ipekyol, Fabrika, Mudo, IGS, Beymen Business, Dufy, Kigili and So Chic have outlet shops here. There are also Teknosa, Istanbul Bilisim and Siemens stores. It is open every day between 10:00 and 22:00.

Address :
Londra Asfalti Kuleli Mevkii E-5 Karayolu Üzeri Bakirkoy
Tel: 0212 4658575

Asya Park Outlet Center

Asya Park Outlet Center opened its doors in 2007 in Umraniye-Dudullu and carries a wide variety of important brands. Asya Park, consists of 7 floors on a total area of 33.000 square meters with several outlet shops, restaurants, activities and special organizations.

Address :
Bostanci Yolu No:1 Yukari Dudullu-Ümraniye
Tel: 0216 3137251

Armonipark Outlet Center
ArmoniPark is at Sefakoy, Istanbul. There are 86 stores, 21 restaurants, 7 movie theaters, a playing area for children, an ice skating rink and an exhibition hall. Pierre Cardin, Atasay, Inci, Derimod, Fabrika, Nike, Vestel, Teknosa, Carrefour, Flo, Tefal, and Karaca are among the stores to be found in ArmoniPark. It is open every day between 10:00 and 22:00.

Address :
Tevfik Bey Mah. Halkali Cad. No: 132 Sefaköy-Küçükçekmece
Tel: 0212 4259100

Colony Outlet Center
Colony Outlet Center is founded on a total area of 19.000 square meters and offers shoppers a new standard of living besides shopping. Colony has 50 shops, a fast food court and movie theatre.

Address :
E-5 Londra Asfalti, Florya Kavsagi, BP arkasi, Florya
Tel: 0212 5804575

Deposite Outlet Center
Deposite is located in Ikitelli, Istanbul and is composed of 110 stores, 12 restaurants and a sports hall. The products of brands such as YKM, Mango, Beymen, Roman, Koton, Kigili, Teknosa, Tezken, Samsung, Boyner, Opmar Optik and LC Waikiki are on sale there. It is open every day between 10:00 and 22:00.

Address :
Ataturk Bulvari Ikitelli OSB
Tel: 0212 6716730

Fox City Outlet Center
Fox City, with its world famous brands, fast food cafes and restaurants, bowling hall and movie theatres, promises shoppers the experience of shopping and entertainment.

Address :
Istanbul Cd.Turgut Özal Bulvari. No:2
Beykent-B.Çekmece
Tel: 0212 8737336

Hayatpark Outlet Center
Hayatpark Outlet Center, with its wide brand variety, spacious halls and unique architecture serves shoppers with its 63 shops, supermarket, fast food court and moive theatres.

Address :
Günesli Merkez Mahallesi Evren Caddesi No:111 Günesli
Tel: 0212 6562211

Istanbul Outlet Park
Istanbul Outlet Part was opened in 2006 and offers shoppers easy, inexpensive, high quality shopping.

Address :
Cumhuriyet Mah. E-5 Karayolu, Firuze Sokak Büyükçekmece
Tel: 212 8722200

Kale Outlet Center
Kale was opened at Gungoren, Istanbul in 2007 and converted into an outlet center in 2008. It is composed of 7 blocks and 8 floors housing 120 stores. Benetton, Derimod, Adidas, Defacto, Nike and Flo are some of the brands. Some entertainment units such as gondol and dodgem cars can be found on the top floor. It is open every day between 10:00 and 22:00.

Address :
Güven Mah. Eski Londra Asfalti No:89 Güngören
Tel: 0212 5021155

ViaPort Outlet Center
ViaPort Kurtkoy hosts 142 stores. Jewelry, leather, watches, kitchenware and furniture shops are located in the “bedesten” section that resembles Kapalicarsi (Covered Bazaar). The only outlets of Dutch women’s wear brand NTS, Bandolera and Harvey Nichols are at Viaport. There is also a Go-cart circuit and an artificial pond. It is open every day between 10:00 and 22:00.

Address :
Yenisehir Mah. Dedpasa Cad. No:2 Kurtköy – Pendik
Tel: 0216 6961001

212 Istanbul Power Outlet
Opened in 2009 in Bagcilar, 212 Istanbul Power Outlet offers shoppers a modern and enjoyable shopping experience. It’s special architecture provides an active, sportive and fun time.

Address :
Mahmutbey Merkez Mah. Tasocagi Cad. No:5 34217 Bagcilar
Tel: 0212 4444212

In Turkey many brands manufacture cheaper products especially for their outlets.

Abbate

Phone: (0212) 628 34 74
Web: www.abbate.com.tr
Adress: Havaalanı Mahallesi, Taşocağı Caddesi, No:26 Atışalan Esenler – İstanbul

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.abbate.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit; Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 İzmit

Adessa / Vestino

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.outletcenter.com.tr
Adress: İzmit Outlet Center
Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Adidas

Phone: (0212) 657 08 03
Web: www.adidas.com
Adress: Evren Mahallesi, Gülbahar Caddesi, No: 55 Güneşli – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 482 05 73
Web: www.adidas.com
Adress: General Ali Rıza Gürcan Caddesi, Ali Nazif Gürman Mahallesi Merter – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 679 26 33
Web: www.adidas.com
Adress: Prof. Muammer Aksoy Caddesi, Olivium Outlet Center, Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

Phone: (0312) 278 10 04
Web: www.adidas.com
Adress: Ankara Factory Outlet İstanbul Devlet Yolu İnönü Mah. No.412/G Ergazi – Ankara

Afrodit Fabrika Satış Mağazası

Phone: (0216) 337 89 12
Web: www.afrodit.com.tr
Adress: Kuşdili Cad. Karadut Sok. No:45 C/D Kadıköy – İstanbul

Asyapark Alışveriş Merkezi Outlet

Phone: (0216) 540 02 00 (29 hat)
Fax: (0216) 540 02 22
Web: www.asyapark.com
E-Mail: info@asyapark.com
Adress: Bostancı Yolu No:1 Yukarı Dudullu / Ümraniye – İstanbul

Atalar

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.atalargiyim.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit; Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 İzmit

Atasay Outlet

Phone: (212) 873 40 13
Web: www.atasay.com
Adress: İstanbul Outlet Park Alışveriş Merkezi Giriş Kat No:19 Beylikdüzü Büyükçekmece – İstanbul

Aymerkez Inlet & Outlet

Phone: (0212) 863 30 30 (pbx)
Fax: (0212) 863 66 48
Web: www.aymerkez.net
Adress: E5 Karayolu üzeri No:69 Mimarsinan Büyükçekmece – İstanbul

Ayyıldız Outlet Merkezleri

Ayyıldız – Bayrampaşa Outlet
Phone: (0212) 612 17 11
Web: www.ayyildiz.com.tr
Adress: Bayrampaşa Aquarium Alışveriş Merkezi Abdi İpekçi Cad. No:42/64 Bayrampaşa – İstanbul

Ayyıldız – Kağıthane Outlet
Phone: (0212) 295 55 60
Web: www.ayyildiz.com.tr
Adress: Uğur Sok. No: 2 Kağıthane – İstanbul

Ayyıldız – Kumburgaz Outlet
Phone: (0212) 884 39 56
Web: www.ayyildiz.com.tr
Adress: Kamiloba Mah. İstanbul Cad. No:115 Silivri – İstanbul
Kış sezonunda hizmet vermiyor

Beymen

Phone: (0212) 286 27 24
Web: www.beymen.com.tr
Adress: Büyükdere Caddesi, Çarşı Mağazaları, Smart bölümü Maslak – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 451 18 30
Web: www.beymen.com.tr
Adress: Yenibosna Köyaltı Mevkii, Değirmenbahçe Caddesi, Yenibosna – İstanbul

Phone: (0262) 335 34 00
Web: www.beymen.com.tr
Adress: Eski Gölcük Yolu, Bayraktar Outlet Center, B:3 Blok – İzmit

Billabong

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.billabongturkiye.com
Adress: İzmit Outlet Center Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Black Cats

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Adress: İzmit Outlet Center Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Brillant

Phone: (0212) 689 50 00
Web: www.brillanthome.com
Adress: Sanbir Bulvarı, İkinci bölge, Atatürk cad., No:60 Kıraç Mevkii Büyükçekmece – İstanbul

Broderi Narin

Tel: (0212) 446 37 93
Web: www.broderinarin.com
Adress: Taşocakları Caddesi No:12 İkitelli – İstanbul

Burberry

Tel: (0212) 451 29 29
Adress: Merkez Mah. Kavak Sok. No:39 Güneşli – İstanbul

Ceylan Bebe

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.ceylanbebe.com.tr
Adress: İzmit outlet Center Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Chicco

Phone: (0212) 520 53 14
Web: www.chicco.com.tr
Adress: Çakmakçılar yokuşu, No: 101 Sultanhamam – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 852 03 18
Web: www.chicco.com.tr
Adress: Beylikdüzü Migros Alışveriş merkezi, No: 176, Büyükçekmece – İstanbul

Phone: (0262) 335 33 14
Web: www.chicco.com.tr
Adress: Eski Gölcük Yolu, Outlet Center, B:713 İzmit

Colin`s Loft

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.colins.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit; Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Colony Outlet ve Yaşam Merkezi

Phone: (0212) 580 45 75 pbx
Fax: (0212) 580 35 85
Web: www.colonyoutlet.com
E-Mail: info@colonyoutlet.com
Adress: E-5 Londra Asfaltı, Florya Kavşağı, BP arkası, Florya – İstanbul

Dagi

Phone: (0212) 630 76 70 – 79
Web: www.dagi.com.tr
Adress: Evren Mah.Gülbahar Cad.No:26/A Güneşli – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 296 41 88
Web: www.dagi.com.tr
Adress: Bomanti Birahane Sok., Ünkan İş hanı, No:3 Şişli – İstanbul

Deposite Outlet Center

Phone: (0212) 671 67 30 (pbx)
Fax: (0212) 671 67 33
Web: www.deposite.com.tr
E-Mail: info@deposite.com.tr
Adress: Sinpaş İkitelli Plaza İnşaat ve Ticaret A.Ş Atatürk Bulvarı Giyim Sanatkarları sitesi O.S.B İkitelli – İstanbul

Derimod Outlet Merkezleri

Derimod Depo
Phone: (0212) 286 51 03
Web: www.derimod.com.tr
Adress: Büyükdere Cad. No: 59 Kat:2 Maslak – İstanbul

Derimod Depo
Phone: (0216) 383 40 33
Web: www.derimod.com.tr
Adress: Süreyyapaşa No:25/1 Maltepe – İstanbul

Derimod Depo
Phone: (0212) 552 01 49
Web: www.derimod.com.tr
Adress: Londra Asfaltı No:40 Şirinevler – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 547 16 04
Web: www.derimod.com.tr
Adress: Demirhane Caddesi, No: 14 Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

Derishow

Phone: (0212) 241 43 38
Web: derishow.wordpress.com
Adress: Akkavak Sokak, No: 18, Nişantaşı – İstanbul

Desa

Phone: (0212) 698 98 00
Web: www.desa.com.tr
Adress: Halkalı cad. No:208 Sefaköy – İstanbul

DKNY Outlet

Phone: (0212) 219 73 89
Adress: Atiye Sok. Ak Apt. No:7 D:1-3 Teşvikiye, Şişli – İstanbul

Doremi

Phone: (0212) 880 02 05
Web: www.doremi.com.tr
Adress: İstanbul Cad. No:80 B.Gürpınar B.Çekmece – İstanbul

Ellese

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Ellesse

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.ellesse.com
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit; Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 İzmit

Esprit

Phone: (0282) 676 44 82
Web: www.esprit.com
Adress: Çorlu Çerkez Yolu Üzeri, Yulaflı Köyü Mevkii Advantage Alışveriş Merkezi – Çorlu

Fenerium Outlet Merkezleri

Fenerium
Phone: (0216) 461 19 07
Web: www.fenerium.com.tr
Adress: Alemdağ Caddesi No 336 Ümraniye – İstanbul

Fenerium
Phone: (0216) 574 48 16
Web: www.fenerium.com.tr
Adress: Kayışdağı Cad. no 139 2/4, İçerenköy – İstanbul

Fenerium
Phone: (0212) 651 66 58
Fax: (0212) 630 13 72
Web: www.fenerium.com.tr
Adress: Evren Mah. Gülbahar Cad. No:2/E Metro Grossmarket Karşısı Güneşli – İstanbul

Goya

Phone: (0212) 247 58 99
Adress: Sıracevizler Cad. Huzur Sok. No: 27 Şişli – İstanbul

GS Store

Phone: (0212) 347 15 72
Web: www.galatasaray.org
Adress: Akıncıbayırı sok. Büyükdere cad. No : 8 Mecidiyeköy – İstanbul

Güral Porselen

Phone: (0274) 216 23 25
Web: www.guralporselen.com.tr
Adress: Lise Cad., BTV yanı – Kütahya

Phone: (0274) 226 03 49
Web: www.guralporselen.com.tr
Adress: Çinigar Mağazası: Otogar Karşısı – Kütahya

Hangar

Phone: (0212) 452 56 00
Adress: Merkez mah. Sanayi Cad. No:78 Yenibosna – İstanbul

Hatemoğlu

Phone: (0212) 549 35 08
Web: www.hatemoglu.com.tr
Adress: Turgut Özal Bulvarı, No: 150 İkitelli – İstanbul

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.hatemoglu.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Hisar

Phone: (0212) 596 10 03
Web: www.hisar.com.tr
Adress: Doğan Araslı Cad. No:217 Esenyurt – İstanbul

Home Store

Phone: (0216) 330 04 00
Web: www.homestore.com.tr
Adress: Bahariye Caddesi, 55/2 Başoğlu İş Merkezi Yanı Bahariye – İstanbul

Hotiç Seri Sonu

Phone: (0212) 295 96 31
Web: www.hotic.com.tr
Adress:Yahya Kemal Mahallesi Ayazma Caddesi Demet İşhanı Kağıthane – İstanbul

İstanbul Outlet Park

Phone: (0212) 872 22 00 Pbx
Fax: (0212) 872 22 05
Web: www.istanbuloutletpark.com.tr
Adress: Cumhuriyet Mah. E-5 Karayolu, Firuze sok Büyükçekmece – İstanbul

İzmit Outlet Center

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.outletcenter.com.tr
Adress: Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Karaca Fabrika Satış Mağazası

Phone: (0212) 696 80 80
Web: www.karaca.com.tr
Adress: Davutpaşa Kışla Caddesi, Yılanlı Ayazma Yolu No:1 Topkapı – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 249 51 29
Web: www.karaca.com.tr
Adress: İstiklal Caddesi No:131 Taksim – İstanbul

Kelebek Mobilya

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.kelebek.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Kom

Phone: (0212) 503 81 00
Web: www.kom.com.tr
Adress: Köyaltı Mevkii, Kavak sokak, No: 1 Yenibosna – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 225 08 70
Web: www.kom.com.tr
Adress: Güvenç Sokak, No: 15-17/A, Bomonti Şişli – İstanbul

Lacoste

Phone: (0212) 654 49 80
Web: www.lacoste.com
Adress: Merkez Mahallesi, Çınar Caddesi, Kavak Sokak No:39 Yenibosna – İstanbul

Laura Ashley – Mothercare – Mexx

Phone: (0212) 635 73 32
Web: www.demsagroup.com
Adress: Fevzipaşa Cad. No:32/1 Fatih – İstanbul

LcWaikiki

Phone: (0212) 446 40 52
Web: www.lcwaikiki.com.tr
Adress: Mahmutbey Merkez mahl., Taşocağı Cad. 2.sok No:14 Bağcılar Güneşli – İstanbul

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.lcwaikiki.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit; Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Levi`s

Phone: (0282) 686 25 90
Web: www.levi.com.tr
Adress: E5 Karayolu üstü, Marmaracık Köyü mevkii – Çorlu

Phone: (0282) 676 44 06
Web: www.levi.com.tr
Adress: Çerkezköy yolu üzeri, Avantaj Alışveriş Merkezi – Çorlu

Phone: (0262) 335 34 41
Web: www.levi.com.tr
Adress: Eski Gölcük Yolu, Outlet Center, Ross – İzmit

Phone: (0216) 573 02 69
Web: www.levi.com.tr
Adress: Bostancı Kavşağı, Kartal Sokak, No: 5 İçerenköy – İstanbul

Phone: (0312) 278 30 05
Web: www.levi.com.tr
Adress: Ankara-İstanbul yolunun 12. kilometresi, BP Benzinlik içi, Şaşmaz Kavşağı

Little Big

Phone: (0212) 656 58 52
Web: www.littlebig.com.tr
Adress: Serhatlı Giyim mağazası, Evren Mahallesi, Koçman Caddesi No:38 Güneşli – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 547 94 89
Web: www.littlebig.com.tr
Adress: Olivium AVM: Prof. Muammer Aksoy Cd. No:1/1 No:8687 Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

Mango Outlet Mağazaları

Mango Kadıköy
Web: www.mango.com
Adress: Bahariye Cad. No:33 Kadıköy – İstanbul

Mango Profilo
Web: www.mango.com
Adress: Profilo Alışveriş Merkezi Mecidiyeköy – İstanbul

Mango Taksim
Web: www.mango.com
Adress: İstiklal Caddesi Taksim – İstanbul

Mango Bursa
Web: www.mango.com
Adress: Zafer Plaza Alışveriş Merkezi Osmangazi – Bursa

Mavi Jeans Fabrika Satış Mağazaları

Phone: (0216) 346 98 11
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: Bahariye Caddesi, Harunoğlu Pasajı, No: 7/15-16 Bahariye – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 572 24 17
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: İstasyon Caddesi, No: 37 Bakırköy – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 483 01 73
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: Yeni Londra Asfaltı, Yılanlı Ayazma Yolu, No: 15, Yeşil Plaza Topkapı – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 544 60 60
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: Gümüşsuyu Caddesi, Fatih Şehitleri Sokak, No: 3/A Topkapı – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 481 93 36
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: Topkapı Ticaret Merkezi 2, No: 91, Cevizlibağ – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 503 69 66
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: Kuleli Mevkii, No: 44/A Yenibosna – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 259 45 69
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: Ihlamurdere Caddesi, No: 69-A Beşiktaş – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 665 19 85
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: Prof. Muammer Aksoy Caddesi Olivium Alışveriş Merkezi, No: 1 Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

Phone: (0216) 573 18 33
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: E-5 Karayolu, Bostancı Sapağı, Kartal Sokak, No:2

Phone: (0282) 747 62 93
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: Yalıboyu Mevkii, Veliköy – Tekirdağ

Phone: (0256) 521 22 32
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: Söke Milas Karayolu, Söke Aydın Opet Benzin İstasyonu`na 5 km.

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: tr.mavi.com
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit; Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 İzmit

Maxmara

Phone: (0216) 358 89 84 – 358 89 85
Adress: Plaj Yolu Afife Cingi Apt. No:3 Suadiye – İstanbul

Mudo Garage

Phone: 0212 285 23 02
Web: www.mudo.com.tr
Adress: Eski Büyükdere Cad. No: 25 Maslak Ayazağa – İstanbul

Mudo Outlet Merkezleri

Mudo Collection – Garage
Phone: (0212) 290 63 93/94
Fax: (0212) 290 63 92
Web: www.mudocollection.com.tr
Adress: Garage Mudo Outlet: Giz 2000 Plaza No: 7 Maslak – İstanbul

Mudo Collection – Mecidiyeköy
Phone: (0212) 274 29 72/73
Fax: (0212) 275 31 19
Web: www.mudocollection.com.tr
Adress: Mecidiyeköy Mudo Outlet: Ortaklar Cad. Bahçeler Sk. No: 10 Mecidiyeköy – İstanbul

Mudo Collection – Olivium
Phone: (0212) 415 55 61/3 hat
Fax: (0212) 415 55 60
Web: www.mudocollection.com.tr
Adress: Olivium Mudo Outlet: Prof. Muammer Aksoy Cad. No: 1/1 Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

Phone: (0216) 337 28 76
Web: www.mudo.com.tr
Adress: Asım Gündüz Caddesi, 29/17, Kadıköy – İstanbul

Phone: (0262) 335 35 35
Web: www.mudo.com.tr
Adress: Eski Gölcük Yolu, Outlet Center, B-712 İzmit

Phone: (0216) 359 79 05
Web: www.mudo.com.tr
Adress: Bağdat Caddesi, No: 320, Erenköy – İstanbul

Network Fabrika

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.network-tr.com
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Nike

Phone: (0212) 549 95 12
Web: www.niketurkey.com
Adress:İkitelli Org. San. Bölgesi Turgut Özal Cad. No:108 Küçükçekmece – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 268 69 20
Web: www.niketurkey.com
Adress: Sanayi Mahallesi, Sultanselim Caddesi, No:3 4 Levent – İstanbul

Web: www.niketurkey.com
Adress: Vepa Sport Outlet, İkitelli Küçük Organize Sanayi Bölgesi, Turgut Özal Caddesi, No: 108, İkitelli – İstanbul

Nine West

Phone: (0216) 525 11 01
Web: www.ninewest.com.tr
Adress: Carrefour İçerenköy – İstanbul

Phone: (0216) 665 87 51
Web: www.ninewest.com.tr
Adress: Prof.Dr.Muammer Aksoy Caddesi, No:1/1 Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

Olivium Outlet Center

Phone: (0212) 547 74 53 (pbx)
Fax: (0212) 582 06 26
Web: www.olivium.com
E-Mail: info@olivium.com
Adress: Prof. Muammer Aksoy Cad. No: 1/1 Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

On On

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Park Bravo Outlet Merkezleri

Park Bravo

Phone: (0212) 665 87 50
Fax: (0212) 665 87 52
Web: www.parkbravo.com.tr
Adress: Prof. Muammer Aksoy Caddesi Olivium Outlet Alışveriş Merkezi No: 40-41 Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

Park Bravo
Phone: 0212 852 02 66
Fax: 0212 852 02 67
Web: www.parkbravo.com.tr
Adress: Beylikdüzü Migros AVM, Z-43 Beylikdüzü – İstanbul

Fabrika Satış Mağazası:
Phone: (0212) 280 90 86
Web: www.parkbravo.com.tr
Adress: Talat Paşa Caddesi. No: 108 Gültepe – İstanbul

Polo Garage

Phone: (0212) 415 55 40
Web: www.pologarage.com
Adress: Prof. Muammer Aksoy Caddesi, Olivium Alışveriş Merkezi Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 572 94 24
Web: www.pologarage.com
Adress: Carousel Alışveriş Merkezi, Kat:1, No:1 Bakırköy – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 216 18 05
Web: www.pologarage.com
Adress: Profilo Alışveriş Merkezi Mecidiyeköy – İstanbul

Web: www.pologarage.com
Adress: Çekirge Caddesi, No: 153 Çekirge – İzmit

Quiksilver

Phone: (0216) 360 63 93
Adress : Sanayi Mahallesi Eski Büyükdere Caddesi Bilek İş Merkezi 29/3 – 4. Levent

Phone: (262) 335 34 26
Adress: Eski Gölcük Yolu, Bayraktar Outlet Center, B:3 Blok – İzmit

Reebok

Phone: (0262) 335 35 70
Web: www.reebok.com/tr/
Adress: Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı Üzeri, Outlet Centre Alışveriş Merkezi B-210 – İzmit

Ross

Phone: (0212) 639 80 40
Adress: Yalçınlar İş Merkezi, Merkez Mahallesi, Çınar Cad., Kavak Sokak Yenibosna – İstanbul

Sarar

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.sarar.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit; Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Selim Triko

Phone: (0212) 241 02 13
Adress: Rumeli Caddesi, No: 83 Osmanbey – İstanbul

Serhatlı

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Outlet Center İzmit Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Seven Hill

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.sevenhill.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit; Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Shieba

Phone: (0212) 232 74 22
Web: www.shieba.net
Adress: Vali Konağı Cad. No:35 Şafak Apt. Nişantaşı – İstanbul

Shoe&Me

Phone: (0216) 448 01 26-27
Web: www.shoeandme.com.tr
Adress: Carrefour Kat 1 No:23 İçerenköy – İstanbul

Smart

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit – Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Sporting Outlet

Phone: (0216) 499 01 99
Web: www.sporting.com.tr
Adress: Dudullu Tavukçuyolu Cad. No:227
34775 Dudullu – Istanbul

Şişli Optik

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.sislioptik.com
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Taç Linens

Phone: (0288) 436 22 90
Web: www.tac.com.tr
Adress: Büyükkarıştıran Kasabası, Teyyare Meydanı Mevkii Lüleburgaz – Kırklareli

Tekzen

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.tekzen.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Ten

Phone: (0212) 425 34 81
Fax: (0212) 425 21 59
Web: www.ten.com.tr
Adress: Colony Outlet Center: E5 Londra Asfaltı, Florya Kavşağı K:2 No:40 Florya – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 552 95 75
Web: www.ten.com.tr
Adress: 29 Ekim Cad. No:16, Yenibosna – İstanbul

Tepe Home

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.tepehome.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Tiffany

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.tiffany.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Tommy Hilfiger Outlet Merkezleri

Phone: (0212) 664 30 65
Fax: (0212) 664 30 65
Web: www.tommyhilfiger.com.tr
Adress: Olivium Outlet: Prof. Muammer Aksoy Cad. Kat:1 Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 454 91 89
Web: www.tommyhilfiger.com.tr
Adress: Yenibosna Outlet: Merkez Mah. Kavak Sk. No: 22 Yenibosna – İstanbul

Phone: (0212) 283 50 93
Web: www.tommyhilfiger.com.tr
Adress: Levent Outlet: Büyükdere Cad. Konaklar Mah. A1 Blok Zemin Kat Yeni Levent – İstanbul

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.tommyhilfiger.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit; Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Tween

Phone: (0212) 222 30 65
Web: www.tween.com.tr
Adress: Gürsel Mahallesi, Yalım sok. No:25 Okmeydanı – İstanbul

Web: www.tween.com.tr
Adress: Olivium Alışveriş Merkezi, Zeytinburnu – İstanbul

Phone: (0232) 374 13 72
Web: www.tween.com.tr
Adress: Fevzi Çakmak Cad. NO:24-A Bornova – İzmir

Phone: (0282) 676 46 74
Web: www.tween.com.tr
Adress: Avantaj Factory Outlet Çorlu – Tekirdağ

Vakko Outlet Merkezleri

Vakko – Eminönü
Phone: (0212) 522 89 41
Fax: (0212) 526 17 73
Web: www.vakko.com.tr
Adress: Sultanhamam Cad. No: 24 Eminönü – İstanbul

Phone: (0262) 335 35 61
Web: www.vakko.com.tr
Adress: Eski Gölcük Yolu, Outlet Center, B-101 – İzmit

Phone: (0232) 422 13 43
Web: www.vakko.com.tr
Adress: Plevne Bulvarı, ½-A Alsancak – İzmir

Phone: (0312) 425 22 85
Web: www.vakko.com.tr
Adress: Atatürk Bulvarı, No: 113 Bakanlıklar – Ankara

Vetrina

Phone: (0216) 385 80 66
Adress: Bağdat Cad. No: 381 / 17 İstanbul

Welkar Talker

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit – Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Yataş

Phone: (0216) 309 54 10
Web: www.yatas.com.tr
Adress: Cumhuruiyet Mah. Kartal cad. No:31 Yakacık – İstanbull

Yeşil Kundura

Phone: (0262) 335 31 70
Web: www.yesil.com.tr
Adress: Outlet Center İzmit; Sefa Sirmen Bulvarı (Eski Gölcük Yolu) 41040 – İzmit

Zeyland

Phone: (0212) 550 45 96
Web: www.zeyland.com.tr
Adress: Koçman Cad., 28 Güneşli – İstanbul

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Balıkesir

March 3rd, 2016

Balıkesir

Balıkesir: Blessed with numerous islands where lush green forests stretch along the shores of the infinite sea, Balıkesir province is also the habitat of abundant olive groves.
Founded by the Mysians in ancient times, Balıkesir has been one of the major cities of many great civilizations. Influenced by diverse cultures the city is a rich cultural mosaic.
Among the coastal cities Balıkesir has the most islands which fascinate everyone with their unspoiled scenic beauty. Furthermore, the peaceful holiday resorts of the region are among the must-see places.
Located at the intersection of Marmara and Aegean regions and praised for its historical heritage, delicious cuisine and impressive nature this beautiful city is ready to welcome its guests any season of the year.

Attractions

Located at a wonderful geographical area with a cultural background of thousands of years, Balikesir has many beauties to share with you.
Rich in ancient cities, Balıkesir is currently the site of a variety of excavation works going on at the antique cities of Cyzicus, Deasklaion, Saraylar and Antandrus. An episcopal center during the Christian period, the ancient city of Antandrus is of particular importance for its coins and inscriptions found on site.
Displaying the artifacts of the province and shedding light on different epochs, the Bandırma Archaeological Museum and the Kuva-yi Milliye (National Forces) Museum are among the must-see attractions of the area.
Numerous cultures and beliefs coexist in the province well known for its variety of religious structures. Zagnos Pasha, Yildirim, Alaca Mescit, Kasaplar and many other mosques in addition to Ayazma Church are among the prime examples of religious monuments.
Especially the districts of Balıkesir draw attention for their scenic beauty. Serene and clear blue bays are waiting for you at the numerous holiday resorts along the Aegean coast of the province.
Ayvalik, is one of Turkey’s most beautiful vacation spots. Famous for its historical landmarks such as the historical houses and stone houses, and locations like Cunda Island, Patricia coves, Şeytan Sofrasi (Devil’s Banquet), Sarımsaklı Beach, and delicious fish restaurants, Ayvalik will take its place on your list of unforgettable holiday destinations.
Located in the district of Edremit and blessed with lovely beaches, lush green forests and canyons, the summer resorts of Akçay, Altınoluk and Güre offer visitors the opportunity to spend a relaxing holiday.
Bandırma is a quite charming district with little towns such as Hisarköy and Bigadiç. Burhaniye, Ören is another scenic holiday resort with lovely beaches and a nice wharf.
Counties such as Dursunbey, Gömeç, Erdek and Marmara Island are further unspoiled locations where the green meets the blue.
Located in the northern part of the Gulf of Edremit in Balıkesir province, Kaz Mountains (Mount Ida)is an amazing national park beset with lush green forests. The area is of great significance due to its abundant flora and fauna and is also mentioned in many legends.
Kuscenneti National Park is one of the areas where you can observe the natural habitat and witness the migration of the birds both in autumn and spring.
Blended with Aegean flavors the traditional cuisine of Balıkesir will delight your palate. Well-known for its olives and olive oil, the region has also made a name for its meat and dairy products. Kazdağı soup, fried zucchini flowers, cookies and sweets made of curd, clotted cream pancakes and höşmerim are among the specialties that will delight your taste buds.
Balıkesir fulfills the wishes of vacationers who want to spent a relaxing holiday and enjoy the silence of lush green and pristine bays.

Events

Located in the Marmara region and representative of the Aegean values and culture, Balıkesir promotes these values at numerous festivals organized throughout the year.
Organized annually, the International Kuşcenneti Culture and Tourism Festival is a colorful event held to promote environmental awareness. The festival venue becomes the scene of a variety of activities such as theater performances, panel discussions, exhibitions, shows and running competitions.
Likewise, the Interational Burhaniye Olive and Olive Oil Festival, organized in the town famous for its olives, becomes the scene of various panels, shows and activities.
A variety of activities and events such as the Zeytinli Rock Festival, the Commodities Fair and Oil Wrestling Competitions, Oya Festival and Traditional Horse Racing Festival are waiting for you in Balıkesir province.

How can I get there?

Located at the midpoint of Istanbul and Izmir, Balıkesir is among the cities that are easily accessed.
There are reciprocal flights from Istanbul and Ankara to Balıkesir Airport and Koca Seyit Airport in the district of Edremit. Yet, you may also prefer the highway as the flights to Balıkesir province do not occur on a regular basis.
There are intercity bus lines connecting the region to all major cities in Turkey. The taxis and public transport vehicles will take you to any district within the region.
You may also get to the region by taking one of the ferries from Istanbul to Bandirma in Balıkesir province. The journey takes only two and a half hours. The taxis or other transportation vehicles will take you to any destination within the province.
Balikesir is the perfect location for an enjoyable holiday!

Balıkesir Photo Gallery

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Amasya

February 29th, 2016

Amasya: The city where the Sultans’ sons were educated and the legendary city where Ferhad had to mine the mountains to reunite with his beloved Shirin, Amasya has been one of the major cities of many civilizations since the ancient times.
Nestled in the foothills of Mount Harşena and along the Yeşilırmak valley, Amasya province leaves an unforgettable impression on tourists both for its historical monuments and its natural wonders.
Located in the Central Black Sea Region, Amasya is one of the first settlements in Anatolia. The climate of the region is a mixture of the Black Sea and Continental climate. The region is not so hot and dry in summer but receives little rainfall in winter.
Amasya is of great importance to Ottoman history as it had been the birthplace of many Sehzades (Sultans’ sons) where they received also their education.
It is high time to get to know this magic city which has been the land of many legends!

Attractions

It is known that the first settlement occurred in 5500 BC and that the region came under the domination of the Hittite, Phrygian, Lydian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations.
Well-known for its cultural diversity, Amasya province is rich in historically significant monuments and artifacts amidst a lush green and generous landscape.
The King rock tombs of the Pontic Empire before the Common Era are among the most important ancient monuments of the region. Carved into limestone rocks on the slopes of Mount Harşena, these tombs mark the city skyline a Hellenistic flair.
Made during the Early Roman period and mentioned in the legend of Ferhat and Shirin, the Ferhat Water Channel was built into carved rocks to provide the region with water supply. Positioned parallel to the present day highway the channel is about 6 km in length.
Amasya Castle is another tourist attraction that is situated on the steep slopes of Mount Harşena. Offering a unique view of Amasya, the castle bears the ruins of the Girls Palace in the southern section and borders the Tombs of the Kings on the other side.
Steeped in history, museums such as the Ethnography, Şehzadeler, Alpaslan, Sabuncuoğlu Medical and Surgical History, and Amasya National Defence Museum exhibit the relics of the region from the ancient times to the present.
The Ottoman-era mosques, madrasas and inns are among the further must-see places. The Burmalı Minare, Gümüşlü and Gökmedrese mosques as well as Kapi Aga Madrasah, Ezine Han and Eski Hamam are among the historical structures worth visiting.
Offering a splendid view the Yaliboyu Houses, lined along the Yeşilırmak river in front of magnificent mountains, are among the most beautiful spots of Amasya. The Yaliboyu houses are among the must-see attractions that fascinate the sightseers with their colorful facade and traditional architecture.
Blessed with hot springs, Amasya is also popular for its thermal facilities which are claimed to contribute positively to the treatment of various diseases. Gözlek Thermal as well as Terziköy and Hamamözü are some of the long-established spas that ensure visitor satisfaction.
Borabay Lake, Yedikuğular Bird Sanctuary and the picnic area in Çamlık are ideal locations where one can take a sojourn into nature and enjoy long walks. Surrounded by lush green forests, you can inhale the fresh air of the Black Sea region. Moreover, outdoor sports enthusiasts may take part in activities such as trekking, cycling, angling and camping or pursue hobbies such as birding or botany.
Prepared with great care and specially served, the traditional dishes of the province such as çatal çorba (a knife and fork soup), göbek dolma (stuffed ribs), pastırmalı pancar (beets with bacon, patlıcan pehli (eggplant pehli), Amasya çöreği (Amasya muffins), yakasal börek (yakasal pastry) and gömlek kadayıf will delight your taste buds.
Famous for its muscatel apples, cherries and peaches and more importantly for its notable scientists, artists and poets, Amasya is ready to welcome guests in any season.

Events

Among Turkey’s most beautiful cities Amasya entertains its guests with a variety of festivals and events throughout the year.
Organized in June every year, the International Atatürk Culture and Art Week becomes the scene of a variety of activities. Also dance companies from various countries take the scene.
A wide range of entertaining festivities such as the Ali Pir Civan Culture and Art Festival, the Historical Silk Road Cultural Activities, Tasova Okra Festival and Hamamözü Traditional Wrestling Festival are waiting for their visitors.

How can I get there?

Amasya is located on the Black Sea route and offers a variety of transportation alternatives.
There are reciprocal flights between Amasya Merzifon Airport and Istanbul every day. The Samsun Airport is another alternative as it is close to Amasya. The shuttles, public buses and taxis stationed outside of the exit gates will take you to the desired destination.
Holiday makers who want to travel by highway can take one of the intercity buses to Amasya and make use of the shuttles or taxis stationed at the Amasya central bus terminal to reach the city center or any desired destination within the province.
A unique city both for its culture and geography, Amasya will enchant you as it does to all of its guests.

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Mersin

January 15th, 2016

Mersin

Mersin: One of the warmest and most beautiful cities of the Mediterranean region that can be visited for its authentic flavors and beautiful beaches any time of the year.

Mersin is one of the most developed cities of the region with an ever-growing tourism potential welcoming thousands of visitors particularly during the summer season.
The peak of the Taurus Mountains and part of the mountain range, Bolkar Mountains is surrounded with lush green forests where you can enjoy some scenic beauty and taste numerous fruits.
The city is a beautiful seaside province with a unique cultural background and offers a variety of holiday options that will spice up your vacation in the province.

Attractions

Situated by the azure Mediterranean coast with a cultural background dating back to the ancient times, Mersin is a popular holiday destination offering a variety of entertaining activities.
Mersin has a history dating back to 700 BC and many historical places to sightsee. The ancient cities in the towns of Yumuktepe, Mezitli, Aydıncık, Bozyazı, Erdemli, Mut, Silifke, Tarsus and Anamur are surrounded with innumerable monuments displaying the traces of antiquity.
Mersin Museum, Silifke Ataturk House and Ethnography Museum, Tarsus Museum and Tasucu Arslan Eyce Amphora Museum display archaeological as well as modern artifacts and are also popular for their impressive architecture.
Settled thousands of years ago and the cradle of a variety of cultures and beliefs, Mersin is home to numerous cultural landmarks. The St. Paul’s Church, Arab Orthodox Church, Red Church, Hagia Thekla Underground Church, Eshab-I Keyf Mosque, Makam-I Şerif Mosque, Ulu Mosque and the Prophet Daniel Tomb as well as Nure Sofi Tomb are some of the religious sites worth to sightsee.
Situated at a main transit point by the Mediterranean Sea, Mersin has been the center of various civilizations throughout the history and witnessed the construction of various historical forts. The city is surrounded with innumerable historical sites such as Kızkalesi, Candir Castle and Gülek Castle.
Seven Sleepers (Eshab-I Keyf) Cave and Astım (Asthma) Cave, Köşebük, Heaven and Hell caves are some of the significant natural sites opened to visitation. Especially the Cave of the Seven Sleepers is considered a holy site according to Christian and Islamic faith.
The Alahan Monastery included on UNESCO’S Tentative World Heritage List, St. Paul’s Church, St. Paul’s Well and environment in addition to Mamure Castle are among the must-see places too.
In addition to sight-seeing, you should also get some beach towels as the province is famous for its long beaches stretching along the crystal clear sea. Seaside resorts such as Erdemli, Silifke, Aydıncık Tarsus, Bozyazı and Anamur offer ideal opportunities to enjoy the advantages of the sunny Mediterranean climate.
The natural landscape of Mersin province is also suitable for a variety of sports activities. You can spend some adrenaline filled times by engaging in outdoor activities like scuba diving, trekking, mountaineering, paragliding or jeep safari.
You should also taste the delicacies of the traditional cuisine of the Mediterranean city with the richest cultural heritage. In addition to Tantuni, a special dish of the region made of meat and a mixture of spices, sesame soup,hummus, Tarsus Kebab, sturgeon fish, içli köfte (stuffed meatballs) as well as region-specific desserts like cezeryeand kerebiç are some of the local specialties you should taste.
Mersin offers a wide range of cultural legacies, tasteful delicacies and activities and places to explore. Wouldn’t you like to embark on an enjoyable holiday?

Events

One of Turkey’s most visited destinations; Mersin offers the opportunity to spend enjoyable times with a variety of events and festivals organized all the year round.
The international Mersin Music Festival, Sand and Water Sports Festival, Karacaoğlan Falls Poetry Evenings are some of the events carried out with the participation of thousands of guests from different countries around the world.
Many other festivals such as the Mersin Citrus Festival, Traditional Batırık Fest, Soli Sun Festival and Cumhuriyet (Turkish Republic) Oil Wrestling Competitions provide for unforgettable times.
You are invited to participate in the entertaining and colorful festivities of the region.

How can I go there?

Mersin is one of the warmest cities of the Mediterranean Region and continues to evolve and grow every year.
Şakirpaşa Airport is the closest airport to Mersin and is situated in Adana province. The airport accommodates direct flights from all major cities and is within easy reach of Mersin via highway.
Although the city has no airport yet it accommodates reciprocal bus services between any city in Turkey and Mersin. The shuttles, public transport vehicles and taxis waiting outside of the Mersin bus terminal will take you to any destination within the province.
Accessible also via ferry from Northern Cyprus, Mersin invites you to a pleasant holiday.

Mersin Photo Gallery

: Cezerye – Mersin

: Anamur – Mersin – Turkey

: Man Rocks – Mersin

: Mersin-3

: mersin-9

: Mersin-1

: Seal – Mersin

: Heaven Sinkholes – Mersin

: Port – Mersin

: Mersin-7

: Caretta Caretta – Mersin

: Kanlidivane Basilica – Mersin

: Erdemli – Mersin

: Alahan Monastery – Mersin

: Atatürk’s House Museum – Mersin

: Anamur Castle – Mersin

: Göksu River – Mersin

: Rafting – Mersin

: Mersin-4

: Paragliding – Mersin

: Mersin-6

: Mersin-5

: Tantuni – Mersin

: Cambazlı Church – Mersin

: Künefe – Mersin

: Girl Castle – Mersin

: Folk Dances – Mersin

: Port – Mersin – Turkey

: Anamur – Mersin

: Mersin

: Mersin-2

: Silifke – Mersin-1

: Silifke – Mersin

: Seafood – Mersin

: Pompeipolis – Mersin

: Anamur Beach – Mersin

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Burdur

October 28th, 2015

Burdur

Burdur: Located in the western part of the Mediterranean Region, Burdur is a major city where scenic beauties meet with historical archaeology
Settled for the first time in 7000 BC, Burdur has been home to many civilizations and ancient monuments well-preserved until the present day.
Located in the Göller Yöresi (Lakes District) in southern Turkey, the beautiful city offers a variety of entertaining activities. You may embark both on cultural excursions or sightsee the natural wonders of the area.
Cold and rainy in winter but hot and rather dry in summer, Burdur offers the opportunity to spend a memorable holiday.

Attractions

One of the major cities of great civilizations dating back thousands of years, Burdur with its magnificent structures and ruins, invites you on a journey through history.
Many ancient artifacts and monuments have been brought to light and opened to visitation today at the ancient cites of Sagalassos, Cremna, Kibyra. Hacilar, Höyücek and Kuruçay, surrounded with dozens of mounds and tumuli, are among the further ancient settlements worth the visit.
The Burdur Archaeology Museum exhibiting the ancient artifacts excavated in the region is another must see site that houses significant findings shedding light on human history. The museum is comprised of halls displaying statues and small artifacts and an open-air exhibition area in addition to the Stone Room Ethnography Museum.
Insuyu, one of the first caves opened to visitation in Turkey, is another tourist attraction located in Burdur. The cave is 597 meters long and has nine lakes within. In addition to this place which showcases the creative powers of nature, Sefer Yitiği Cave is another place of interest well known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Burdur, still bearing the traces showing the influence of the Ottoman Empire on the city, is surrounded with a variety of religious sites capturing attention for their unique architecture. In addition to mosques, such as Ulu, Dengere, Divanbaba and Manastır Mosque, the Greek Church too are some of the most prominent faith centers located in the province.
The Clock Tower, Pirkulza Madrasa and Library and Susuz Caravanserai are some of the historical sites you may want to see. You will also enjoy visiting traditional Turkish baths such as Tabak, Baltaloğlu, Hoca Bali and the Old and New Hamam where you can experience the traditional lifestyle of Ottoman culture.
Moreover, Burdur is located in the lakes region where you can take time out in nature and see a variety of beautiful lakes. You can pep up your holiday by engaging in sports activities such as nature walks, scuba diving, canyoning, windsurfing or angling.
Make sure to delight your palate with some local delicacies as the cuisine of the region is well known for its variety of authentic dishes. Dishes such as Burdur shish kebab, tandir kebab, meat pie and rice soup, in addition to sweets like pumpkin halva, walnut paste and Burdur pudding are some of the traditional delicacies you should taste.
Burdur is the ideal destination for vacationers who want to take a sojourn into nature, get steeped in history and explore new cuisines.

Events

Although a landlocked region located in the Mediterranean Region, Burdur is nevertheless a popular holiday destination for a variety of reasons including interesting events and festivals.
Organized annually in May, the Tobacco Festival and Culture and Art Activities feature many colorful activities.
The Trap Shooting and Single Shot Competitions, Tefenni Barutlusu Festival, Fig and Carpet Festival and Altın Tütün (GoldenTobacco) Oil Wrestling Festival are some of the well-known events organized in Burdur province.
It is recommendable to start planning your holiday soon if you want to partake in these activities too.

How can I go there?

Located in Turkey’s south, Burdur can be accessed by taking a flight to any of the two closest cities as there is no airport in the province.
You can reach Burdur via a short road trip after a convenient flight to Isparta Süleyman Demirel Airport or Antalya Airport The shuttle services waiting outside of the airport will take you to the bus terminal where you can continue your journey on the road.
If you want to get to Burdur by highway, you can take any of the intercity buses from any city to Burdur bus terminal and proceed from there to your hotel accommodation by making use of the public transportation vehicles.
Wouldn’t you like to visit Burdur, an intriguing holiday destination worth to explore?

Photo Gallery

: Burdur Archaeology Museum

: Burdur Archaeology Museum

: Burdur Archaeology Museum

: Burdur Archaeology Museum

: Burdur Archaeology Museum

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Yalova

October 21st, 2015

Yalova: Surrounded by the Marmara Sea, Yalova is a peaceful and relaxing city rich in thermal springs and abundant nature.
It is estimated that Yalova was founded in the 7th century BC by Bithynians from Thrace. Yalova is rich in historical monuments as it has been home to many civilizations through the centuries.
The province is also rich in natural resources and welcomes a great number of visitors at its thermal facilities.
Yalova, with its thermal facilities, welcomes all visitors looking for relaxation within easy reach.

Attractions

Nestled in the foothills of Samanli Mountains, Yalova is visited by many tourists every year for its pristine coves, scenic beauty and natural riches.
A thermal center in the literal sense, Yalova offers the opportunity to get rid of the daily stress in the healing waters of the thermal springs. One of Turkey’s major thermal facilities, Armutlu thermal resort lies in a valley surrounded by forests.
The Yalova City Museum and Open Air Museum display valuable artifacts that shed light on the history of the region. Furthermore, the Karaca Arboretum Live Trees Museum is one of Turkey’s most important tree gardens. The arboretum has innumerable samples of trees and plants and receives great interest from nature enthusiasts.
The Walking Mansion of Yalova, which was named so in 1930 because Atatürk had the structure moved by 4, 5 meters so as to save an ancient sycamore tree, is one of the most beautiful historic sites of early 20th century.
Nestled in the lap of nature, the Sudüşen Waterfall and Erikli Waterfalls offer the opportunity for recreational activities and count among the city’s most popular natural sites.
The Karlık and Delmece plateaus and Dipsiz Lake are further alternatives where one can take shelter in nature and engage in activities such as hiking and picnicking.
Situated by a tranquil coast surrounded with lush forests, Çinarcik is the largest and most touristic destination of Yalova province. Çinarcik, where you can try the most delicious dishes of the regional cuisine, is also one of the most entertaining locations in the region.
Yalova is the ideal location for visitors looking for pleasant memories and a relaxing holiday in the heart of nature.

Events

Yalova is popular among tourists not only for its lush green nature but also for its festivals.
The Altin Çinar (Golden Sycamore) Culture and Art Festival is one of the major events of the city and is held in the first days of August.
The Peace Day Film Festival, Children’s Film Festival and the Turkish Tribes Culture Festival are among the major cultural activities of the city.
The International Caucasian Folk Dances of Yalova, Music Festival and International Yalova Folk Dance Festival and Altın Karanfil (Golden Carnation) Folk Dance Competition are some of the enjoyable activities introducing the traditional dances of the province.
These festivals are highly entertaining and give a picture of the culture of the region for tourists who like to engage in cultural pursuits during vacation.

How can I go there?

Situated in the Marmara Region which has well advanced transportation facilities, Yalova is a convenient destination to start your vacation.
The closest airport is located in Istanbul. Having arrived in Istanbul, you can continue to Yalova by taking one of the intercity busses leaving from the central bus terminal or one of the ferries leaving from Yenikapi harbor.
The IDO Ferries leaving from Istanbul-Yenikapı will transfer you to Yalova in approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once in Yalova, you can make use of the public buses, dolmushs and taxis to get around within the province.
Yalova has also an advanced highway system and is accessible by bus from any city in Turkey.
Wouldn’t you like to visit Yalova, inviting you to discover its green landscape surrounded with natural wonders?

Photo Gallery

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: Sudüşen Waterfall – Yalova

: Hersekzade Ahmet Pasha Mosque – Yalova

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Karabük

October 20th, 2015

Karabük

Karabük is situated on an important trade route between Amasra on the coast and central Anatolia. Karabük is a town and the capital district of Karabük Province in the Black Sea region of Turkey. Karabük was built in the 1930s as the seat of the iron and steel industry of Turkey. There are no known records of the origin of its name; in Turkish kara means “black” or “land” and bük means “bush” or “blackberry bush” (“bramble”). So Karabük means “blackbush”. It has borders with the cities Kastamonu on the east and northeast, Bartın on the northwest, Zonguldak on the west, Bolu on the southwest and Çankırı on the southeast.

History

Karabük had become a province of Zonguldak during the early years of Turkish Republic in 1927. Formerly it was small village of Safranbolu, formed by 13 houses. There was a train station which started to be called “Karabük” in June 1st, 1934. After the foundation of the Iron – Steel Factory in 3 April 1937, Karabük started to grow rapidly and its name became popular all around Turkey. In 1953, it became a district of Safranbolu and later in 1995 Karabük became an official province center of Turkey. Hadrianapolis (now Eskipazar) is an ancient city from the Roman Empire of the 4th century, located about 3 km from Karabük. There are many fountains, churches, and Roman baths. Although most of it is recently excavated, illegal excavations which have been going on for many years have damaged Eskipazar’s chances of becoming a major tourist attraction.

Climate

The climate of Karabük is a combination Black Sea climate and terrestrial climate. The area closer to the sea shows effects of Black sea coast. Other parts in Central Anatolia are mostly very cold in winters and hot and dry in summers.

Places of interest

Safranbolu Houses The most important element, which brought Safranbolu forward in our country and in the world at the scope of the culture tourism, is the Safranbolu houses constructed in the style of the traditional Turkish architecture. These houses are attractive both in the scope of urban positions and their architecture styles. There are approximately 2000 traditional Turkish houses at the district center constructed at the beginning of 18th and 19th century.
The houses are grouped in two different regions of the Safranbolu district. The first region is the winter residence known as the city and the second region is the summer residence known as bağlar (orchard).

Ancient Cities As a result of the archeological excavations and studies executed in the Karabük province the ruins of the ancient Hadrianapolis city had been discovered inside the borders of the Eskipazar district which was assumed to be founded in BC 64, in the Roman civilization period. Another important settlement area belonging to this ancient city is Kimistene, located at the Asar Hill.
There is an ancient settlement belonging to the Roman civilization period at the Akören village of Safranbolu district.
There are 32 normal sized and 4 large sized tumulus inside the borders of the Karabük Province.

Religious Monuments The important mosques and churches of Karabük Province would be counted as St. Stefanos Church (Ulu Mosque) located in Safranbolu district, Eski Mosque (Old Mosque)(Gazi Süleyman Paşa Mosque), Köprülü Mehmet Paşa Mosque, Hidayetullah Mosque, Taş Minare Mosque (Stone Minaret Mosque), Dağdelen Mosque, İzzet Mehmet Paşa Mosque, Akçasu Mosque and Küre-i Hadit Mosque located in Eflani District.

InnsCinci Inn: The inn is located at the Çeşme Quarter of Safranbolu District at the middle of the bazaar. This magnificent structure is constructed his hometown, Safranbolu by the Rumeli Kazaskeri Cinci Hoca (Real name Hüseyin), who had gained power and became rich during the period of Sultan İbrahim.
There are two other inns other than Cinci inn in Safranbolu named Pamukçu and Tuzcu Inns. The Katırcı Inn located in the Eflani district , which was constructed by the beginning of 20th century.

BathsEski Hamam (Old Bath): The bath is located in the Çeşme quarter of the Safranbolu district. It was from the Byzantine period.
Yeni Hamam (New Bath) (Cinci Bath): The bath is located in the Çeşme quarter of the Safranbolu district inside the Bazaar. This bath was also constructed by Cinci Hoca.
Yazıköy Bath: The bath is located inside the borders of Safranbolu District and the exact date of construction is not known. It is estimated to be constructed in the mids of 1800.
Bulak Bath: The bath is located in the Karabük province and the exact construction date is not known. It is estimated to be constructed in the year of 1780. It is a creation of the Ottoman period.

Fountains There are 93 officially registered fountains with and without inscriptions as cultural riches in the Safranbolu district.
Taşköprü: The bridge is located to the east of Safranbolu district and 200 meters north of Konarı village. The bridge is constructed over the Eflani Creek and the exact construction date is not known.

BridgesTokatlı Bridge The bridge is located at the Aşağı Tokatlı Quarter of Safranbolu district. The construction date is assumed to be the 18th century.

HighlandsSorkun Plateau: The Sorkun Plateau is located inside the borders of Karabük – Yenice – Eskipazar and has an approximate altitude of 1650 meters. The plateau has a vast area and is available for trekking purposes.
Ulu Plateau: The Ulu Plateau is located at the north of Safranbolu district and is covered with abundant forests with vast and green meadows. The combination of wooden plateau houses and forests exposes a paradise like adobe. The plateau is suitable for camping and trekking purposes.
Sarıçiçek Plateau: The plateau is located inside the borders of Safranbolu district and has an altitude of 1700 meters. The plateau is covered with forests. The plateau is suitable for trekking, horse riding, mountain bike riding and camping.
Boduroğlu Plateau: The plateau is located in the Ovacık district and has an unmatched beauty. Every year festivals are arranged in the plateau.

Caves and CanyonsBulak (Mencilis) Cave: This cave is located at the Bulak village. With its 6,5 km length, it is the 4th largest cave of our country. The cave is a natural wonder with its stalagmites, stalactite travertine, small lakes and underground river.
Other various caves inside the city borders are the cave located in the Sipahiler village reached via 61 stairs and the Hızar cave located inside the borders of Safranbolu district.
Canyons: The canyons hold a peculiar place among the natural beauties of Karabük. The canyons are mostly formed by the deep cracking of limestone layers in Safranbolu Region. These canyons made the land structure of the region interesting and the most important canyon of the region is the İnce Kaya canyon. This canyon hosts the İnce Kaya water arch and has very steep and deep slopes.
The Düzce (Kirpe) Canyon charms and fascinates its visitors with the natural beauties. The length of the canyon is extremely long. Other canyons of the province are Tokatlı, Sakaralan and Sırçalı canyons. The Şeker Canyon at the Yenice district is another important canyon with 6.5 km length and hard passages and attracts professionals.

Promenade Göktepe Nature Park: This park is located in the Yenice district. It has advantages like natural beauties, suitable climate and clean air and convenient reaching. The plateau is suitable for sportive activities, camping and caravan tourism.
Gökpınar Relaxation Resort: This resort is located inside the poplar forest region of Yenice district, on a mountain peak called as Gökpınar plateau.
Çetiören Promenade Place: This promenade place is located at 10 km. distance to the Eskipazar district. The area has rich fauna and flora and wild life. The area has unique beauties. The music and oiled wrestling festival is arranged at the second weekend of August each year..
Eğriova Promenade Place: This promenade place is located at 25 km distance to Eskipazar district in the locality of Eğriova with 12.000 m2 surface area and an artificial lake with 5 m. depth. It is a suitable place for trekking and camping purposes.
Eflani locality: This area has broad plains and plantation.

Museums There is no official museum established in the Karabük province. The “Iron – Steel Museum” belonging to Kardemir, “Ahmet Demirezen Yemenicilik Museum” in Safranbolu and some Safranbolu Houses (Kaymakamlar House, Kileciler House, Karaüzümler House, Mümtazlar Mansion) restored and open to visit by Ministry of Culture, Head Official of the district and private persons are serving as museum.
Iron – Steel Museum: The museum was established in the Yenişehir quarter in 3 April 1984. The museum introduces the foundation of Iron – Steel Factories, first iron production, and technological improvement with photographs and materials.
Ahmet Demirezen Kerchief Artisanship Museum: The museum was arranged by Kerchief Artisan Ahmet DEMİREZEN in the Safranbolu Kerchief artisans bazaar section, 3 numbered shop. The equipment and materials used in the production of shoe called Yemeni are exhibited in the museum and was founded in 1989.
Kaymakamlar Museum House: The house is located on the Çarşı Hıdırlık Ascension Street of Safranbolu district. This museum is nationalized and founded from a splendid Safranbolu house in the scope of “Safranbolu Improvement and Preservation” project of Ministry of Culture in 1979 and had been restored and arranged. The house had entered service in 1981 as Education Center and Museum House and had been named as Kaymakamlar House because of its former owner. It is open for visit in daylight hours.

Activities

Camping at the Yenice Forests in Autumn and enjoy the nature.

Camp in Ulu Plateau and Sarıçiçek Plateau and visit Şeker Canyon and Düzce Canyon.

Do fishing at the Eflani Small lakes.

Do trekking in the Sorkun Plateau, Ulu Plateau, Sarıçiçek Plateau, Boduroğlu Plateau, Avdan Plateau and the Tokatlı and Düzce Canyons passing through the Safranbolu district.

Photo Gallery

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Photo Gallery

October 9th, 2015

PICTURES OF TURKEY

: Turkey, Ephesus

: Palandoken

: Turkish Airlines

: Turkey, Istanbul

: Pamukkale

: Simit

: Ortaköy

: Istanbul

: Hagia Sophia

: Turkey, Istanbul

: Ephesus

: Winter Sports in Turkey

: Turkey, Karabük, Safranbolu

: Bosphorus

: Karadeniz

: Turkey, Mugla

: Büyükada Istanbul

: Istanbul

: Turkey, Van, Akdamar

: Turkey, Istanbul

: Ağrı

: Turkey, Edirne

: Istanbul

: Turkey, Rize_bike

: Bosphorus

: Turkey, Antalya, Belek

: Hattuşaş

: Turkey, Istanbul Kızkulesi

: Istanbul

: Cappadocia Baloon

: Turkey, Sivas

: Side

: Turkey, Nevşehir cappadocia

: Ephesus

: Turkey, Muğla, Mugla, Milas

: Çeşme

: Turkey, Trabzon

: Aphrodisias

: Safranbolu

: Turkey, Antalya

: Cappadocia

: Winter Sports in Turkey

: Tea

: Pamukkale

: Turkey, Istanbul

: Turkey, Antalya, Mediterranean

: Istanbul

: Göcek

: Turkey- Antalya

: Muğla

: Pamukkale

: Turkey, Nevşehir Bike

: Rize

: Turkey, Mugla,Fethiye

: Istanbul

: Kaş

: Bursa Kestane Şekeri

: Sultanahmet

: Pamukkale

: Kekova

: Turkey, Istanbul, Beyoglu

: Turkey, Adana

: Safranbolu

: Side

: Turkey, Mediterranean diving

: Turkey, Istanbul

: Turkey, Artvin

: Turkey, Antalya, Side

: Antalya

: Turkish Coffee

: Turkey, Mugla,sail

: Aspendos

: Pamukkale

: Kusadasi

: Uludağ

: Turkey, Istanbul

: Turkey, Nemrut

: Hagia Sophia

: Turkey, Istanbul, Galata

: Pamukkale

: Hierapolis

: Selimiye Mosque

: Turkey, Bursa, Uludağ

: Dogubeyazit

: Cappadocia Baloon

: Beyoglu

: Hagia Sophia

: Museum of Turkey

: Istanbul

: Mugla

: Antalya

: Turkey, Trabzon bike

: Rize

: Galata

: Çeşme

: Turkey, Izmir, Ephesus

: Istanbul

: Turkey, Aydın

: Ephesus

: Aphrodisias

: Turkey, Izmir

: Safranbolu

: Trabzon, Sumela

: Cappadocia

: Turkey, Antalya, Alanya

: Turkey, Muğla, Mugla

: Turkey, Şanlıurfa

: Turkey, Izmir, Çeşme

: Ephesus

: Turkey, Trabzon, Maçka

: Turkey, Trabzon, Maçka Sumela

: Eminönü

: Turkey, Adıyaman

: Ortaköy

: Turkey, Alanya, Antalya

: Turkey, Gaziantep, Zeugma

: Sivas

: Turkey, Izmir, Efes, Ephesus

: Adıyaman Nemrut

: Turkey, Mersin, Kızkalesi

: Turkey, Canakkale, Truva, Troy

: Mardin

: Edirne

: Istanbul

: Turkey, Sanlıurfa

: Yanartas

: Bodrum

: Turkey, Konya

: Cappadocia

: Turkey, Istanbul, Eminönü

: Beyoglu

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: Turkey, Istanbul, Bosphorus

: Turkey, Erzurum, Palandoken

: Tetrapylon, Aphrodisias

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: Turkey, Istanbul, Haliç

: Galata Turkey

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: Turkey, Nevşehir

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: Turkey, Antalya rafting

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: Turkey, Antalya, Demre

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: Turkey, Istanbul, Ayasofya

: Dalyan

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: Turkey Coffee

: Topkapı Palace

: Istanbul

: Göcek

: Baklava

: Aphrodisias

: Turkey water sports

: Turkey, Bursa

: Pamukkale

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Museums

October 9th, 2015

The unequaled works of art and remains belonging to the many civilizations and societies that left their mark in Turkey are preserved across the centuries to welcome today’s visitors.

Shedding light into history, far and recent, this legacy is well-preserved under the most suitable conditions. Museum Card provides even easier access into these interesting museums and historic sites across the country.

If you are curious about the story of man during thousands of years, be prepared for a fascinating journey in time in a grand-scale open air museum.

Asclepeion Ancient City in Pergamon

An ancient medical center, the Asclepeion in Izmir province, is built nearby the springs that are believed to be curative. Treatment is a priority in the designs of the buildings and the success of the doctors earned the center a good name during the Roman era.

Employing a variety of techniques from dream interpretations to treatment with cold, hot and mud baths and sunbathing therapy, Asclepeion was the most advanced medical center of its time.

Hatay Antakya Archeology Museum

Archaeological excavations were started for the first time in 1932 in Antakya (Antioch) and through those excavations, various cultural and historical documents of a wide range of period from 4th thousand BC until today have been collected. Because of the great variety and number of works found in the first years of the studies, the establishment of a museum in Antakya was decided upon the request of M. Prost, Antiquities Inspector, working in Hatay (Antakya), which was under the French domination. The plan prepared in compliance with the modern museum understanding was applied in 1934. In the museum, whose construction was completed in 1939, works found in three different scientific excavations are exhibited.
In 1939, when Hatay was integrated to the motherland, Turkey, the museum building was completed and the works discovered in the excavations were stored in there. The museum was opened to the public on July 23rd 1948, the day of independence of Hatay. Alongside its numerous items on display, the museum’s rich mosaic collection draws much attention. The additional building was completed at the end of 1973 and opened to service after the considerable renovation. This way, the number of exhibition halls has been increased from five to eight. Since then, the facilities exhibiting the unique Hittite and Assyrian artifacts and relics have acquired contemporary value.

Aphrodisias Museum

Aphrodisias Museum is situated by the ancient city of Karaca district in Aydin province. The museum exhibits a collection of artifacts, coins and sculptures unearthed during excavations carried out at ancient city of Aphrodisias.
The findings of Aphrodisias, once among the major sculpture centers of the ancient times, are exhibited in the numerous halls of the museum located in the city center. Including an interior garden and a large courtyard Aphrodisias Museum is a glorious landmark bearing the ancient artifacts of the region.

Antalya Archaeological Museum

Antalya Archaeological Museum is a large complex of 30 thousand square meters exhibiting the findings uncovered in Antalya situated by the Mediterranean coast and home to many great civilizations since the ancient times.
The ethnographic legacies exhibited in a variety of halls displaying numerous ancient artifacts from the early settlement to the present, in addition to the Roman sculptures and findings obtained during museum rescue operations and special collections are among the historical riches awaiting museum visitors.
Covering an area of 30.000 square meters including 14 exhibition halls, open-air galleries showcasing statues and diverse artifacts, a library and a garden, the Antalya Archaeological Museum features many sites worth to sight see.

Burdur Archaeology Museum

Burdur Archaeology Museum is located at the intersection of the cities of Antalya, Isparta, and Izmir, Denizli and Muğla and serves as the exhibition venue of the historical findings unearthed in these provinces.
The museum is equipped with an ancient city exploration system with a kiosk controlled cylindrical screen enabling you to see the city plan of ancient civilizations and to examine them from various perspectives. Exhibiting precious and ancient artifacts of Anatolia and comprised of several exhibition halls, the Kibyra and Kremna Galeries and a garden, Burdur Archaeology Museum is at your service.

Denizli Hierapolis Archeology Museum

Located in one of the most valuable areas of the Aegean Region, Denizli Hierapolis Archeology Museum belongs to a region that has been continuously inhabited since antiquity. The museum showcases the findings uncovered in the ancient cities of Laodicea, Colossae, Triapolis and Attuda. In addition, the museum exhibits also artifacts derived from Beycesultan Mound and archaeological sites such as Caria, Pisidia and Lydia.
The Hierapolis Archaeology Museum is surrounded by natural wonders and ancient sites and consists of several sections such as the Statues and Sarcophagi Gallery, Small Artifacts Gallery, Theatre Ruins Gallery and a garden section.

Haci Bektas-i Veli Museum

Among the most important cultural legacies of Nevsehir, the Haci Bektas-i Veli Museum is one of the historical monuments that have survived from the ancient times.
The museum is located in the Cappadocia region well known for its scenic views and as the land where Haci Bektas-i Veli spent a significant part of his life. Thanks to this the area attained historical significance, grew in importance and developed over time. Comprised of three courtyards, the museum informs about the basics of Bektashi philosophy and showcases valuable artifacts.

Istanbul Galata Mawlawi House Museum

The Istanbul Galata Mawlawi House Museum is included among the precious and historical museums of Istanbul. Situated in the locality of Tunel in Beyoğlu district, this precious museum attracts also attention as the first Mawlawi House established in the city.
The Galata Mawlawi House Museum consists of many parts including the Semahane, the main building, and numerous smaller sections. The museum houses the most valuable items pertaining to Mawlawi culture and is definitely a must-see place. Exhibiting valuable immovables, the museum features also a great collection of calligraphy plates, music instruments, items and clothes of the Mawlawi culture.

Koç Museum

One of Turkey’s most comprehensive private museums, Koç Museum showcases the most unique works at its indoor and outdoor exhibition areas. The museum, which opened its doors in 1994 featuring a special collection of distinguished works, is positioned on the shores of Haliç. Covering an area of 27 thousand square meters, this cultural treasure is comprised of three main sections.
Moreover, Koç Museum is the first of its kind dedicated to the industrial and communication sectors in Turkey. Indeed the museum hosts exhibitions that are replaced by new ones periodically. You may encounter numerous artifacts pertaining to the history and cultural values of Turkey at these historical buildings where many events, workshops and training sessions are held.

Miniatürk

How about taking a fast tour through Turkey’s major cities and sightseeing their landmarks? Located in Istanbul, Miniatürk is the world’s largest open air miniature museum displaying the replica of the monuments in Anatolia.
The museum covers an area 60 thousand square meters and is located by the banks of the historical Haliç, one of the most beautiful places in Istanbul. Showcasing 1/25 scale model monuments belonging to the Turkish Republic and Ottoman Empire, the museum houses 59 historical structures from Istanbul and 51 historical monuments from diverse regions in Anatolia in addition to 12 world-famous landmarks from around the world.

The Archeology and Mummy Museum of Amasya

Founded in 1925, within the confines of the Sultan Beyazit II Mosque Complex, the Amasya Museum has moved to its current site in 1980. Being one of Turkey’s most outstanding museums, Amasya Museum benefits the location of a beautiful Anatolian city where nature most generously displays its charms.
Housing the cultural legacy of eleven different civilizations, the collection of the museum includes archeological and ethnographical findings, in addition to coins, stamps, manuscripts, with the world’s one and only Islamic mummies ever to be displayed.

Iznik Ayasofya Museum (Hagia Sophia Museum in Nicaea)

One of the most important centers both for the Ottoman Empire and Anatolia, the Iznik County houses this museum, converted from a mosque, which was formerly the church where the seventh Ecumenical Council was held.
Originally dating from the Roman period, the building was converted into a mosque in 1331, and today it serves as a museum. The frescoes and mosaics from the Byzantium period, together with the sarcophagi are worth seeing.

Alacahoyuk Historic Site and Museum

One of the oldest settlements of human history, Alacahoyuk is located in the city of Corum. The first Alacahoyuk museum that opened in 1940 moved to its present site 42 years later.
The collection that occupies two floors of the museum building consists of the finds from the Alacahoyuk and Pazarlı archeological sites, including remains belonging to Phrygian, Hittite and Ottoman periods. We are sure that visitors would be very much interested in the Alacahoyuk Museum, the collection of which grows richer as the new archeological discoveries are made.

Istanbul Military Museum

Boasting rich and diverse collections, the Military Museum is located in Harbiye on an approximately 55,000 meter square site. Founded under the Ottoman rule to train army officers, the Military School grew into a complex with the adjacent buildings, and today, it holds its exhibits in more than 20 rooms.
Open to the public except for Monday and Tuesday, the museum also offers concerts by the janissary band of musicians between 15.00 and 16.00.

Yildiz Palace Museum

One of the most esteemed architectural heritages in Istanbul, Yildiz Palace offers its widely ranging collections to the visitors.
Built on the section named “the Yildiz Peak” in the Besiktas neighborhood, enjoying a lush green surrounding, the museum holds many precious art works, among which are the personal items of Sultan Abdulhamid II.

Ataturk Congress and Ethnography Museum

Used as the headquarters of the National Struggle for Independence in 1919, this building at the city center was turned into a museum to commemorate its historical role.
The documents pertaining to Ataturk and the Sivas Congress, together with the ethnographic items are displayed on the two floors of the museum. The rooms that witnessed the Congress are preserved intact.

Trabzon Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia) Museum

Built under the Trebizond Empire in the 13th century, the Hagia Sophia Church was later converted into a mosque. Restored in the 19th century, Ayasofya was turned into a museum in 1964.
With its architecture and its elegant works of art, such as the frescoes, floors and domes, Ayasofya Museum is looking forward to hosting its visitors amidst the attractive nature of the Black Sea region.

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

Located in the capital of Turkey, Ankara, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations was awarded the European Museum of the Year in 1997. Consisting of unique artifacts belonging to the civilizations of Anatolia, the collection is one of its kind in the world.

This unique collection preserves the legacy of civilizations ranging from the Paleolithic era and the prehistoric times including Assyrian, Hittite, and the kingdoms of Phrygia and Urartu. It also includes a special section on Ankara.

Didyma Historic Site

A center of prophecy affiliated with Miletus and a city associated with Apollo, Didim is located in Aydin Province. The site of a large-size temple of Apollo, the ancient city is known to be densely populated and frequently visited.

Alexander the Great wanted to rebuild the temple of Apollo, destroyed during the Persian Wars, on an even grander scale but the construction was not completed in centuries. A sacred route connects this temple with Miletus.

Miletus Historic Site

Built as a seaport but today carried inland, Miletus is one of the largest and stately ancient cities. The excavations are still being held in the historic site revealing the metropolis which Miletus was once among the Ionian cities.

The Roman theater with a capacity of 15,000 spectators is the most striking sight of the city. Also of interest are the spas, the oracle center of Delphinium, the Agora and the Gymnasium.

Assos Historic Site

Built in the 6th century BC, located in Canakkale province, Assos was famous in antiquity with its sarcophagi. The Temple of Athena, the only Doric structure in Anatolia, sits atop of a scenic hill in this ancient city where Aristotle lived for a while.

Archeological finds from the ruins can be seen both at the museum in the site and at the Canakkale Museum.

Troia Historic Site

Located in Canakkale, Troia is identified with the legend of the Trojan Horse which has its roots in one of the greatest epics, created by Homer. A site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage, Troia still has ancient secrets to reveal with the excavations still being conducted.

Its first human settlements dating back to the 5th millennium BC, this ancient city was destroyed and rebuilt 9 times. In addition to the historic riches, Troia charms its visitors by its striking natural beauties as well.

Gaziantep – Zeugma Mosaics Museum

One of the world’s unique museums, Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep province holds a collection of important mosaic scenes and work of art from the ancient city of Zeugma and its environs.

In the 30,000 meter squares of this museum complex, you can see the findings excavated and carefully restored.

Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology

Built in Karia, an important region of the antique world, the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology houses many distinctive underwater finds.

Situated in The Bodrum Castle of The Knights of St. John, the museum is one of its kind in Turkey, and one of the few in the world.

Sumela Monastery

Also known as Virgin Mary, the monastery, located in Macka in Trabzon province, is built into the rocky cliffs. Consisting of many buildings, the monastery dates back to the Roman era and came to eminence in the 19th century.

Luring its visitors into the heart of nature, all the buildings of the monastery will open as soon as the ongoing restoration is completed.

Derinkuyu Underground City:

85 meters below the ground with a complete city structure, Derinkuyu underground city is located in Nevsehir province. This underground city contains many sophisticated structures such as ventilation, church, stable and cellar, but only one-tenth of the city is accessible.

Some of the wells in the site have no connection with the ground level in case of poisoning during an invasion. So visitors who want to get a taste of a dramatically different life under the ground will be attracted by this place.

Zelve Open Air Museum:

Situated in Nevsehir province, Zelve houses the most number of the world-famous Fairy Chimneys. Zelve is an important Christian center since it is the place where the first religious seminars for priests were held.

Built on the hillsides, Zelve spans three valleys. The first settlements were carved into rocks and Direkli Church is one of the first monasteries around.

Pergamon Acropolis Archeological Site

Dating back to the 3rd century BC, the Acropolis in Izmir province has preserved many of its structures and works of art. Built on several levels of mounds, the ancient site of Pergamon Acropolis is extraordinarily rich in archeological findings.

Many architectural remains such as the Sanctuary of Athena, the altar of Zeus, the Library of Pergamon, the heroons and Arsenal can be seen in full detail.

Ephesus Archeological Museum

Ephesus Archeological Museum: This museum in Izmir province houses the archeological finds from the site where one of the most sophisticated civilizations once thrived. The exhibitions are organized in terms of their excavation sites.

Shedding light into the history of Ephesus and Anatolia, the museum is divided into two sections as archeology and ethnography.

Also of interest are the terrace houses and the basilica of St. John.

Hagia Sophia Museum

Built during the Byzantine era, the grand churches of Hagia Sophia were turned into a mosque complex after Istanbul’s conquest, which was eventually turned into a museum by the time the modern Turkish Republic was founded.

Rebuilt three times at the same site, Hagia Sophia houses the museum with an outstanding mosaic collection. Of the original ceiling mosaics from the 6th century, the ones with plant and geometric designs are well-preserved.

İstanbul Archeology Museum

Built during the Ottoman era, the museum complex provided a background for the development of museology in Turkey. The buildings of the complex are themselves of historic significance.

The strikingly rich collection is divided into three sections as Archeological Museum, Ancient Orient Museum and Tiled Kiosk Museum.

Chora Museum

Decorated with precious mosaics and frescoes, Chora Museum was originally built during the Byzantine era as a church. After the conquest of Istanbul it was turned into a mosque, and under the modern Republic of Turkey the building was opened to public as a museum. This church is known to serve as the court chapel during religious ceremonies. This church carries the imprint of the typical Byzantine architecture.

Great Palace Mosaic Museum

The Great Palace Mosaic Museum harbors the mosaics excavated from the courtyard of the Great Palace built during the Byzantine period.

The mosaics depict scenes of everyday life and natural themes, such as a griffon eating a lizard, a combat between an elephant and a lion, a woman carrying a pot, and bears eating apples.

İstanbul Topkapı Palace Museum

Built on a domineering point along the Bosphorus after the conquest of Istanbul, the palace is located on the tip of the historic peninsula. Used as state headquarters as well as home to the sultans until the 19th century during the Ottoman reign, Topkapi Palace was opened to public as a museum after the declaration of the Republic.

Spanning 700,000 meter squares of an area, the palace offers visitors its vast collection of more than 80,000 pieces of artwork, in addition to the temporary exhibits.

Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

The construction of this first Turkish museum started in the 19th century within the confines of the Suleimaniye Mosque Complex. Focusing on the Turkish and Islamic arts, the collection consists of approximately 33,000 pieces, exemplifying each historic era.

Among the few of its kind, the museum is also famous for its rich collection of rugs, and known as the Rug Museum. Rare pieces such as Seljuk rugs to the ones known in Europe as Holbein rugs are exhibited here.

Mevlana (Rumi) Museum

The museum was originally a Rose Garden in the Seljuk Palace and was later presented as a gift to Rumi’s father and made a Dervish Lodge. The Mevlana Museum in Konya has many divisions, hosting many valuable articles.Also known as the Green Mausoleum, the museum spans 18,000 meter squares, and is the second most visited destination after Topkapi.

Ataturk and the War of Independence Museum

Opened to public in 2002, the museum is located below the Hall of Honor in Ataturk’s Mausoleum. In addition to exhibition pieces, visitors can also peek into Ataturk’s Private Library.

Holding many historically significant articles, exhibition area with a size of 3,000 meter squares is divided into four main sections.

Ankara Etnography Museum

Built in one of the oldest neighborhoods of Ankara called Namazgah, the Ethnography Museum was also Ataturk’s first resting place for 15 years before Anıtkabir (Mausoleum). The collection holds the legacy of Turkish arts dating back from the Seljuks till today.

This is the first state museum to be planned and built to host this huge cultural legacy. Significantly, its creator is one of modern Turkey’s first architects, Arif Hikmet.

Hatay Archaeology Museum

Unique in the world with its rich collection of more than 35,000 pieces, Hatay Archeology Museum hosts the priceless mosaics known to history. Some of museum’s holdings are exhibited in 20 other museums around the world.

Although predominantly belonging to the Byzantine era, the dates of the mosaics range from the antiquity to the great empires that ruled over Antakya (Antioch).

İstanbul Museum of Modern Art

Turkey’s first modern art museum, Istanbul Modern is located in the Karakoy seaport, hosting many permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Many works of imagination ranging from painting and sculpture to video and installation is waiting for its visitors. The setting for international art events such as the Istanbul Bienal, the museum reflects the modern face of art in Turkey.

Pera Museum

The impressive collection of the Pera Museum has been hosting art lovers since 2005. Within the Pera Film concept, independent film presentations together with parallel film sessions with exhibitions are held. In addition, the museum organizes workshops for children and young adults.
Hosting many international exhibitions, the museum holds in its permanent collection famous paintings such as “Tortoise Trainer” by Osman Hamdi Bey and “Maid Servant” by Jules-Joseph Lefebvre.

Ishak Pasha Palace

Built in the Byzantine era in Dogu Beyazit district in the province of Agri, the palace is remarkable both for its architecture and art history. The palace complex carries the imprint of Seljuk, Ottoman and Persian architectural styles.
The palace with its many sections such as the mausoleum, the mosque, first and second courts, harem and men’s quarters is sure to take you on a mysterious trip in time.

Links

Museum of Turkey

Museum of Turkey

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Winter Sports

October 9th, 2015

Turkey, which attracts the attention with different scenic beauties every season, offers the most beautiful ski slopes in winter. The Skiing centers of Anatolia welcome many winter sports enthusiasts and offer slopes that are suitable for a variety of winter sports.
The heavy snowfall at the mountainous regions of central Anatolia provides for entertaining leisure time options throughout the winter.

Skiing

Situated a high plateau and surrounded with many mountains, Turkey is a country that receives pretty much snowfall in the winter.
Various ski resorts from Uludağ to Palandöken, Sarikamis to Kartepe and Erciyes to Saklıkent offer ski slopes furnished with the latest equipment. Moreover, novices to skiing can hire skiing equipment and take the opportunity to conquer the slopes in no time under the supervision of experienced instructors.

Snowboard

Snowboard, one of the most preferred alternatives to skiing, can be done at all ski resorts of Turkey.
Holiday makers may either bring their own equipment or rent the necessary materials from the ski resorts, and enjoy snowboarding on any of the diverse slopes.

Posted in Erciyes, Kartalkaya, Palandoken, Sarikamis, Sports in TURKEY, Touristic Regions, Uludag, WELCOME TO TURKEY, Winter Sports | 1 Comment »

Water Sports

October 9th, 2015

The crossroads of Europe and Asia surrounded by the Black Sea, the Mediterranean, and Aegean and Marmara seas, Turkey is the heart of water sports. Turkey is a peninsula awaiting its visitors to explore the seas of magnificently unique regions.

Sailing

Sailing which has originated from the perfect harmony of boat and wind, is nowadays categorized as recreational sailing and race sailing.
Many coastal areas specifically by the Aegean and the Mediterranean Seas offer beautiful spots and excellent winds where one can let go with the waves and take pleasure in sailing. Bursa, Izmir, Muğla and Adana are some of the coastal provinces popular for their strong winds.

Rafting

Rafting, a team sport aimed at steering a raft without getting overturned among wild waves, is a popular sports activity in many locations from north to south of Turkey.
Rivers with varying degrees of difficulty from 1 to 6 such as Manavgat in Antalya province, Firtina in Rize and Çoruh River in Artvin province invite rafting enthusiasts to embark on a rafting adventure and revel in the foaming waters.

Under Water Diving

Turkey attracts particular attention for its diving centers in the Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea and the natural beauty of the seas.
Numerous diving centers and their experienced teams will open doors to a whole new world where you can experience a different dimension of freedom.
A great variety of fish species, coral reefs, wrecks and all other underwater beauties are waiting to welcome diving lovers at diving destinations such as Kaş in Anatlya province, Çeşme in Izmir province and Bodrum in addition to Fethiye in Muğla province.

Yachting

Surrounded by seas on three sides, Turkey is also a convenient location for yacht tourism.
Numerous bays, each of them more beautiful and unique than the other, are ready to welcome you.
Located along the coast from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea region, bays such as Kuşadasi in Aydin province or Çelebi Marina in Antalya province are waiting for visitors to explore the natural and historical heritage of the area.

Windsurfing

Windsurfing is another activity that can be done at the windy coasts of the Marmara and Aegean seas.
Alacati and Marmaris are among the most popular Aegean coasts where windsurfers can enjoy the adrenaline-filled ride on the surfboard.

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Outdoor Sports

October 9th, 2015

For the active tourist Turkey has many mountains that offer winter sport activities . The mountains offer wonderful winter sports like skiing, mountain climbing and hiking. Enjoy the winter sports by checking out some of the to climbing sites such as Agri-Mount Ararat, Kayseri-Mount-Erciyes, and Rize Kacker Mountain Range today.
Explore the many exciting air sports such as paragliding, delta wings, ballooning, and parachuting. Turkey has approximately 40,000 caves and caverns to explore. For active explorers the from the Caverns of Antayla to the Caves of Zongulduk there is ample opportunity in Turkey to explore the interesting geological formations. This sport is known as spelunking.There are over 1,000 thermal springs in Turkey most are located in Marmara and the Aegean regions. People come to enjoy the many resorts built around the springs and heal various illness by bathing in the waters. The trade of silk was an important commodity to Turkey and the city of Anatolia was a major route.
For younger travelers youth tourism is a big industry. There are many youth camps and special tours designed for high school and college age students. Visit this interesting city for culture, history and adventure!

Trekking

Daily trekking tours are organized in many locations of Turkey. Most trekking enthusiasts prefer hiking trails that lead into nature but are also and close to the urban centers.
The Belgrad Forest (Belgrad Ormanı) in Istanbul, Sudüsen Waterfall and Erikli Highlands in Yalova, Cenedağ Tepe Mountain in Kocaeli and Seven Lakes (Yedi Göller) in Bolu are only some of the most enjoyable hiking trails.

Mountain Climbing

Many unique mountains of different altitudes located in diverse regions of Turkey welcome mountain climbers from all over the world. Mountains such as Uludağ in Bursa, Kaçkars in Rize, Erciyes in Kayseri, and Taurus Mountains in Antalya province impress with their heights and complement the passion of climbing.
Mountaineers who want to participate in adrenaline-charged journeys to reach the summit of tough mountains and revel in the spectacular scenery are welcome in Turkey.

Rock Climbing

Turkey is among Europe’s most advantageous countries in terms of the abundance of natural rock climbing areas.
The southern regions of the climbing areas where both rock climbing and artificial rock climbing can be done are located by the sea where one can take a swim afterwards.
Ballıkayalar in Izmit, Karakayalar in Eskişehir, Geyikbayırı in Antalya and Kaynaklar in Izmir are among the popular rock climbing destinations waiting for their visitors.

Camping

Camping, an essential component of outdoor sports is one of the most favorite activities of nature lovers.
Camping areas in diverse cities such as Altinkamp in Balıkesir province, Emeksiz, near to İzmir and Kabak Bay close to Muğla are ever ready to welcome their guests! Campers will experience unforgettable moments by taking shelter in the heart of nature.

Speleology

Caves, full of secrets waiting to be unlocked, are abundant in the karst regions of Turkey.
More than 30 caverns such as Karain in Antalya province, Insuyu in Burdur and Kurudağ near to Izmir are open to touristic visitation. Some of the caves can be explored only with special equipment and in company of guides.

Parachute

Parachuting, the most enjoyable way of flying, is quite common in the southern regions of Turkey. Activities such as paragliding, free-fall parachuting and acrobatic parachuting will boost your adrenaline.
How about taking off from high altitude in Fethiye, Mount Erciyes in Kayseri, Pamukkale or Efes and experiencing the joy of floating in the void!?

Water Sports

Water sports are available in just about every beach resort in Turkey. Çeşme and Bitez are both popular for windsurfing.
Scuba diving has really taken off in Turkey in recent years, partly due to the clear, warm waters visibility of 30 meters is not uncommon and the wealth of historic and natural treasures to be observed under the water, but also because, compared to many other destinations, Turkey represents excellent value for money.
The diving season usually runs from April to November. There are scuba diving schools throughout the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts catering for everyone from beginners to experts. Marmaris, Fethiye, Kas and Antalya are some of the main centers.

Posted in Mountaineering, Sports in TURKEY, Touristic Regions, WELCOME TO TURKEY | 1 Comment »

Alternative Tourism

October 9th, 2015

Alternative tourism options appeal to a wide range of holiday makers who are looking for options other than the classic holiday!
Turkey offers a variety of alternatives and services ranging from eco-tourism as a means to commune with nature to congress organizations with business partners and health tourism in addition to honeymoon packages.

Congress Tourism

Located near to European, African and Asian countries and Russia, Turkey is the capital of international congresses and meetings. Offering a variety of luxury hotels, various accommodation options, and diverse scenic beauties in every province, Turkey is an indispensable venue of major conventions.
Especially major provinces such as Istanbul, Antalya, İzmir, Bursa, Ankara offer an extensive range of hotels that provide excellent service in organizing congresses and meetings without any shortcomings. Meeting participants can attend meetings and conferences and strengthen connections and at the same time take a break and enjoy themselves.

Health Tourism

Modern medicine, which gives new hope to the people every day with emerging technologies, renewed techniques and skillful doctors, is another sector Turkey is successful in. Indeed, health tourism is a rapidly developing field in this country.
Medical tourism, thermal tourism and tourism for the elderly and disabled are the sub-types of health tourism offered in Turkey. Hospitals provide medical care in many branches of medicine and welcome patients from all over the world. Turkey, well known for its skillful and successful doctors and application of newest treatment methods, provides all the necessary health care options for its patients.
Turkey, where you can find better opportunities of health care and spend your holiday at the same time, is at your service with a range of hospitals and medical centers.

Golf

Golf facilities are among the most advanced sports facilities in Turkey, especially in the Mediterranean area. Various courses located in Belek,Bodrum and Istanbul enable visitors to engage in enjoyable activities during their holiday.

Golf courses which multiply in number every year, are generally situated in the middle of nature the most beautiful corners of luxury hotels. Turkey is the right choice for golf devotees who want to enjoy their vacation playing golf.

Honeymoon

Turkey, which offers unique natural wonders in every location, is the ideal spot for a memorable and romantic honeymoon. As a tourist destination with fascinating beaches in the south, Turkey offers everything that will make your first married holiday unforgettable.
Couples can choose from a variety of honeymoon packages with a wide range of options from romantic blue cruises to candlelight dinners by phosphorescent seas or small tours to big organizations.

Youth Tourism

Turkey the center of many activities and holiday options, appeals to young people as much as to the older generation.
There are a variety of youth camps that bring together young people from all over the world and contribute to the integration of cultures upholding the values of peace and friendship. Spending a holiday with peers from diverse countries is not only fun but also an invaluable experience teaching a lot about different cultures.

Ecotourism

Ecotourism involves a rather simple understanding of vacation that emphasizes the harmony of leisure and nature and respects the conservation of nature. Turkey which is blessed with all forms of natural beauty is one of the most valuable sites where this form of tourism is put into practice.
Practiced without giving harm to the environment and natural formations and contributing to local cultures, ecotourism has in fact a great potential in Turkey. It is possible to undertake small tours to the unique highlands and mountains in addition to other environmentally conscious activities like nature walks, bird watching and camping.

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Antique Cities

October 8th, 2015

Home to the world’s earliest settlements and numerous civilizations ranging from the tiniest of communities to the greatest of empires, Anatolia invites you to discover its ancient cities.

Aphrodisias

With a history dating back to 5000 BC, the ancient city of Aphrodisias was established during the Greek and Roman times and is one of the most valuable settlements that have survived to the present day. Located in Aydın province, the city is dedicated to Aphrodite goddess of love and beauty.
As a center of art, sculpture, architecture and worship, Aphrodisias has always attracted the attention for its magnificent Temple of Aphrodite. The value of the unearthed monuments and artifacts in the area has been rising exponentially while the excavation works are still in progress. The ancient city has also an archeological museum bearing the same name of the site.

Halicarnassus

Named Halicarnassus in the ancient times and one of the most beautiful districts of Muğla province, Bodrum is home to a variety of ancient monuments of great value today. Halicarnassus is literally an open air museum with a history going back to 5000 years and its famous Mausoleum is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
The ancient city where you can sightsee highly valued antique monuments such as the Myndos Gate, the Theater or Temple of Mars (Ares), is located amidst magnificent nature.

Harput

Located within the province of Elazığ today, Harput has a history dating back to 2000 BC. The majestic Harput Castle has survived from the ancient times and bears the indelible traces of the Urartu era.
The ancient town of Harput is surrounded with many historical monuments of great significance and is representative of the traditional landscape of Anatolia.

Iotape

Located in Antalya province among the Mediterranean cities with the warmest climate, the ancient city of Iotape was named after the wife of king Antiochus of Commagene. The historic site is home to a variety of ancient monuments from the Roman and Byzantine period.
Situated by a cove in Alanya a district of Antalya province, the ancient city by the turquoise sea is surrounded with magnificent natural wonders where visitors can embark on enjoyable excursions.

Knidos

Among the major settlements of the ancient times, Knidos is located at the edge of the Datça Peninsula which is a district of Muğla famous for its natural wonders. The city was once the center of art, architecture and science and is not only noted for its scientists but also for its Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
A seaside resort surrounded with ancient monuments, Knidos is home to many ruins like the Temple of Apollo and the round temples, sacred groves, the necropolis, the hillside houses and the largest graveside of the ancient times.

Phaselis

Nestled amidst the lush green nature in Antalya province, the ancient city of Phaselis was founded in the 7th century BC. Said to be founded as a Rhodesian colony, the city is well known for its variety of ancient monuments and artifacts.
A major tourist attraction with its harbors, its agora and ancient coins bearing inscriptions revealing that the city was once a major port, Phaselis has numerous hidden corners and monuments waiting to be explored.

Priene

An ancient Ionian city, Priene is located within the borders of Aydin province. With a history going back to 2000 BC the city exemplifies the finest city planning of the ancient times.
Constructed by employing the “grid system”, the Temples of Athena and Zeus Olympus, the theater and the agora are among the ancient structures still extant today welcoming visitors who want to get steeped in ancient history.

Smyrna

Smyrna is the ancient name of Izmir which is not only one of the earliest settlements but also one of the most beautiful cities of the Aegean Region.
The two historical sites located in the city center were established in the 11th century. Many ancient monuments such as the sophisticated houses, sacred structures and monumental fountains that have survived the ancient times are now being brought to light through excavations conducted in the Bayraklı and Kadifekale districts.

Stratonikeia

The ancient city of Stratonikeia, situated near the town of Yatağan in Aydin province, was a member state of the Khrysaor Union and founded in the 3rd century BC. The monuments and ruins of the ancient city are still extant today and opened to visitation.
A wide range of ancient ruins such as the ruins of the city’s castle, the entrance door, small theater and gymnasium are waiting to be explored by history enthusiasts.

Troy

One of the richest cities of the ancient times and among the worldwide popular tourist attractions, Troy is located in the heart of nature in Çanakkale province. The ancient city of Troy was founded 5000 years ago and is now inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Mentioned in many myths and legends the magnificent city was uninterruptedly inhabited by settlers for more than 3000 years. The city has a rich historical heritage and abounds in ancient monuments. The archaeological excavations are still under progress at Troy which is known to be the setting of Homer’s the Iliad and Odyssey.

Corum-Alacahoyuk

Situated in Alaca town in the city of Corum, Alacahoyuk predominantly shows the Hittite influence during the Bronze Age, although ruins belonging to four different cultural phases can also be seen.

Numerous objects belonging to various periods have been unearthed from this ancient site which is continuously settled since the 4th millennium BC. These objects are waiting for their visitors curious about the unfolding of history, in the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations where they are exhibited.

Anavarza

Situated in the Cilicia region in Adana province, the founding date of this ancient city is not known. It emerged during the Roman era but was somewhat overshadowed by Tarsus, the capital of the Cilicia region. In later times, Anazarbus continuously passed hands among the Arabs and Byzantines. Many historic remains along with a majestic Anavarza castle can be seen.

Aspendos

Situated in the Serik town in Antalya province, Aspendos impresses its visitors with its elegant amphitheatre and other ancient remains. Because of its location close to the trade routes and the Koprucay River, Aspendos has always been a rich town many rulers desired to dominate.

The amphitheater in Aspendos is the oldest Roman theater in Anatolia. The visitors find it very exciting to watch concerts, plays and ballet performances on a stage that has witnessed many centuries. The aqueducts in Aspendos are also very impressive to mark the advanced engineering of its time.

Zeugma-Zeugma City

Founded approximately in 300 BC by the generals under Alexander the Great, Zeugma is situated in the Nizip town of Gaziantep. The famous mosaics of this ancient city are exhibited in the Zeugma Mosaic Museum.

On the Silk Road that connects China and Antioch, Zeugma is the trading center of the region. Its location as one of the outposts of the Roman Empire has also contributed to its wealth. Today most of this ancient city is covered with water but the excavations fortunately saved most of the artwork.

Kars- Ruins of Ani

The ancient citadel of Ani is situated on the barren plains above the Arpaçay Valley which separates Turkey and Armenia. The site is surrounded by an imposing fortified city wall, currently undergoing intensive restoration. This one time prominent city used to house over 100.000 citizens in it’s hey-day. Once an important station on the ancient Silk Road, serving as a trading post and caravanseray for merchants travelling with heavily laden camels between east and west, it is now a ruined ghost town. Ani quickly fell to the Mongols in the 13th century who left the city ransacked in turbulent disarray, then Tamerlane rampaged through and mercilessly destroyed what was left. When the trade routes moved further south, the once bustling metropolis lost its revenue from trade and soon the entire province died. It was again destroyed by earthquakes in the 14th century. What remains now are several Armenian built churches, a ruined Seljuk palace, a couple of mosques and caravanserays and a cathedral. The colorful frescoes and paintings in the churches are still in fine condition although time has left its mark as well.Stepping back into the turbulent history of unspoiled Eastern Turkey is a refreshing change from the well-worn tourist track. Exploring in the remotest corners of this timeless land, a quest not for the faint-hearted, priceless treasures can be enjoyed at leisure and unforgettable memories retained for a life-time. A truly voracious adventurer can create his own footprints through the ages.

Archaeological Site of Perge

Ancient Perge, one of the chief cities of Pamphylia
Perge, the long-established city of Pamphylia region, is located 18 km east of Antalya and 2 km north of Aksu Village. The Archaeological site of Perge has been excavated systemically by Istanbul University since 1946.Perge is famous by the fact that when Saint Paul started his journeys, he visited Perge in 46 A.D. and preached his first sermon here. That’s why it became an important city for the Christians during Byzantine period.The first excavations began in 1946 by the Istanbul University, and they resulted in many important discoveries. A theatre exists there, consisting of three main sections: the seating, orchestra and stage. It held 12,000 spectators, with 19 rows of seats on the lower section, 23 on the top section, and a 52-metre stage.The stadium measures 34 square metres, with 13 rows of seats on top of the vaults. The eastern and western sides have 30 vaults each and the northern side has 10. For every three vaults there is an entrance to the stadium, and the other two were used as shops.The Agora was the commercial and political centre of the city, with shops surrounding the central courtyard, some of which have mosaics on the floor.The agora measured 76 square metres, with a circular structure, in the centre with a diameter of 13.40 metres.

The colonnaded boulevard lies between the Hellenistic Gate and the nympheum on the slopes of the acropolis. On both sides of the street, 20 metres in width, are porticoes, some up to five meters high, behind which are shops. The street is divided into two, by a 2-metre wide water canal running through the middle.

Other structures include the necropolis, city walls, gymnasium, Roman Baths, memorial fountain and the Greek and Roman gates.

Bodrum Telmissos

Telmissos is on the Bodrum-Turgutreis road, three kilometres past Ortakent. The site is in the village of Gürece, which is two kilometres before the turn for Gümüşlük, with the hill where the remains are to be found to the north of the main road. You can see remains of the Hellenistic period, mainly the towers of the city’s walls. The historian Herodotus said that the Temple of Apollo was found here, and that it became famous for its oracles. However, no traces of the temple have survived.

Colossae

Situated in the outskirts of Denizli province, Colossae is one of the six great cities of Phrygia. It reached its wealthiest period under the Persian rule but lost its importance when Laodicea was founded.

The ruins belonging to the city of ancient Colossae are on the mound which is at the same time the acropolis, and also found in the surrounding territory. To the north of the mound are the rock-cut tombs, ranging in size from room-type to house-type.

Burdur Archaeological Site Of Sagalassos

The archaeological site of Sagalassos is located in southwest Turkey, near the present town of Ağlasun (Burdur province); roughly 110 km to the north of the well-known port and holiday resort of Antalya.

Large-scale excavations started in 1990.Most of the buildings in Sagalassos are from Hellenistic and Roman periods and well preserved, one of them is the great theater with a capacity of 9,000 people. This is a theater built on the highest altitude in the world. The city has many tombs carved into the rocks, a library, Heroon, Bouleterion (city council), temples, baths, agoras (market place), and monumental fountains which are also intact or restored. Many marble sculptures found during the excavations, belonging to ancient gods such as Ares, Herakles, Hermes, Zeus, Athena and Poseidon, and colossal statues of the emperor Hadrian, emperor Marcus Aurelius, and Faustina as the wife of the emperor Antoninus Pius, are one of the best examples of this art in Anatolia.

Konya-Catalhoyuk

Founded 9 thousand years ago in the Cumra town of Konya, Catalhoyuk is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Among the earliest human settlements in history, Catalhoyuk reveals a variety of lifestyles.

Consisting of two mounds to the east and the west, Catalhoyuk settlements have been continuously inhabited for 2 thousand years. The people of this territory constitute the first agricultural societies. With its dense population, sophisticated culture and art world, Catalhoyuk carries universal significance.

İzmir – Ephesus

Situated in the town of Selcuk in Izmir province, Ephesus is one of the twelve cities of Ionia. Founded in the 6th millennium BC, this magnificent city is home to many civilizations.

The ancient city of Ephesus lived its heyday under the Hellenistic and Roman rule, when its population reached 200,000. With its numerous important sites such as the Temple of Artemis, the Library of Celsus, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus takes its visitors on a mesmerizing journey in time.

Hattusha Open-Air Museum

The capital of the Hittites, located in Bogazkale in the city of Corum, Hattusa is enlisted in the UNESCO World Heritage. Its first settlements dating back to 3000 BC, Hattusa was highly developed in arts and architecture.

The unique archeological findings include containers in the shape of bull head that are used in rituals, and cuneiform tablets. This culturally rich site also bears layers from the Hattian, Assyrian, Phrygian, Galatian, Roman and Byzantine eras.

Kalamaki

Situated in the town of Kas in Antalya province, also known as Kalkan, is impressive for its closeness to the ancient cities in the region and for its natural beauty.
The city’s historic significance is partly due to its location on the Lycian Way that leads to the cities of the Lycian Civilization and partly due to its quality as a safe harbor. The ancient cities of Patara, Letoon and Xanthos are close by. Also of interest is the Pigeons Sea Cave, home to a large number of pigeons.

Letoon

On the Fethiye-Kas highway, Letoon is originally founded in the name of Leto, mother to the Olympian divinities Apollo and Artemis. The ancient city is enlisted in the UNESCO World Heritage.

Being the city of this proud mother, Leto, Letoon is the religious center of Lycia. There are three important temples where visitors can see mosaic depictions of famous scenes from mythology. Hosting many other ancient works of art, the city was deserted in 7th century AD.

Laodicea

The ancient city of Laodicea, in Denizli province, used to be one of the most well-known and important Anatolian city in the 1st century BC. In addition to the numerous ancient buildings that still survive, Laodicea is unique for Christianity for being the home of one of the seven churches in Asia Minor.

Architecturally rich with its theaters, stadium, gymnasium, government building, the Temple of Zeus and the church, Laodicea also sheds light into the lives of its citizens through the inscriptions and the coins. An earthquake in the year 194 AD completely destroyed the city.

Miletus

Situated near to Soke, a town in Aydin province, Miletus earned its independence in the year 38 BC with the help of Roman emperors. Growing up to the size of a metropolis among the Ionian cities with such imperial support, many remains of Miletus still survive.

Miletus is originally a harbor city but in time the Buyuk Menderes River has deposited a large amount of alluvial soil so that the site is now at an inland location.

Myra

An ancient Lycian city, Myra is situated in the fertile lands of the town of Kale in Antalya. Although a Lycian metropolis during the early days of Christianity, the remains from the ancient times have been destroyed except for the great theater.

Myra houses impressive rock-cut tombs, proper to its name which means “the Place of the Great Mother Goddess.” The Church of Santa Claus is another site of attraction. Myra and Limyra are known to have strong trade exchange with maritime affairs.

Perge

Situated in the town of Aksu in Antalya province, Perge was founded during the Bronze Age. Considered to be one of the richest and most elegant cities of the Hellenistic era, Perge is home to many civilizations, the precious remains of which survive till today.

Foça – Phokaia

Situated in Foca in Izmir province, Phokaia is one of the twelve Ionian cities. Originally founded as a colony by the settlers from Phokis in Grecce, Phokaia quickly developed into an important port city.

The Ionian uprisings that lasted until 494 BC finally resulted in the Persian invasion, after which the ancient city of Phokaia lost its power. Fortunately many archeological findings still survive.

Manisa-Sardis

The capital of the kingdom of Lydia, Sardis is situated in the Salihli town of Manisa province. Sardis was a great center for trade and commerce during the Hellenistic and the Roman eras, and under Byzantine rule it continued to hold its importance as the center of episcopacy.

At a close location are the Mounds of Bintepe which were built as tombs for the royalty and have become famous during the antiquity. Today Sardis and Bintepe are nominated for the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Patara

Located between Fethiye and Kalkan, the ancient city of Patara is known as the birth place of the Greek sun god Apollo. In time, the ancient port in Patara which once thrived as a capital of the Lycian League, has been covered with sand.

Scattered towards the surrounding hills, the ruins consist predominantly of sacred places and a theater. The magnificent beaches adorn the shores of this ancient port city. Visitors looking for crystal clear blue sea and bright sun are welcome here.

Telmessos

Located close by Fethiye, Telmessos takes its name from the sun god Apollo’s son. Although the ancient texture has remained under modern Fethiye, the excavated structures can be seen.

Leaning against the skirts of Mount Mendos, Telmessos has everything to offer from its ancient theater and rock-cut tombs to the charming beaches that meet the Mediterranean Sea. The wonderful union of blue and green is at its best in this ancient city of natural beauty.

Xanthos

Located around Fethiye, the ancient city of Xanthos once functioned as a capital of the Lycian League. The city witnessed several wars and was destroyed to be built again eventually. Also the center of episcopacy during Byzantine era, Xanthos is enlisted in the UNESCO World Heritage.

An important city of the Lycian, Persian, Roman civilizations and Byzantium, Xanthos strongly bears Hellenistic and Roman influence. Deserted due to the Arab raids, the ancient city today survives among the pine forest, ready to reveal its history to its curious visitors.

Pamukkale-Hierapolis

Located close by the natural wonder of Pamukkale, the ancient city of Hierapolis was founded in 190 BC. Being a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hierapolis flourished under the Roman era. Today many remains can be seen at the museum and outdoors.

Hierapolis also holds a sacred quality for the Christian world because Saint Philip, a disciple of Jesus, was murdered here. Visitors to the famous curative spring resorts of Pamukkale never fail to see this important ancient city.

Antalya Termessos

Built on a natural platform on top of the Mount Güllük (Solymos), Termessos is one of the best preserved ancient cities in Anatolia. Due to its natural beauty and historic significance, the site is preserved as National Park in the province of Antalya.

Six temples of various sizes and types, along with other ancient structures can be seen. Having no current archeological excavation, Termessos is waiting to whisper its deepest secrets to its visitors who would climb the highest mountain around and trace the antique footsteps through the wild foliage.

Antalya – Limyra

Located in Finike in Antalya province, Limyra served as the capital of the Lycian civilization for a period. Most of the ancient remains from Limyra have survived. A center for episcopacy during the Byzantine era, this ancient city was deserted because of the Arab raids.

Limyra, also called Zemuri, is known to exist since the 5th century BC. The gradually thriving city became the capital of the Lycian League built in resistance against the Persians. The eternal fire of freedom of Lycia was set here.

Sagalassos

Close to Aglasun, a town of Burdur province characterized by its natural beauties, Sagalassos is known to be the first of the Pisidian cities. After natural disasters and several unlucky events, such as the Arab raids, the ancient city of Sagalassos was deserted.

The earliest human settlements in Salagassos are thought to date back as early as the 3rd millennium BC. Salagassos was raised to prominence as the city of Alexander the Great. Thanks to the ongoing excavations in the area, each day brings new light to important findings left back in antiquity.

Assos

Its history dating back to the 6th century BC, Assos is built on a dormant volcano of andesite rock, in the modern city of Canakkale. Among many others, the famous ancient remains of Assos are the sarcophagi made of andesite rock, known for its hardness and durability.

The rich antique legacy of Assos, where the famous philosopher Aristotle once lived, includes a school of philosophy. The Temple of Athena, majestically sitting on top of a crag, is dedicated to the city’s protector and is significant for its Doric style, the only one in Anatolia.

İzmir-Pergamon

Pergamon is founded in the county of Bergama (Izmir), where the Aegean and Anatolia regions come together. Pergamon’s ancient riches include many architectural structures such as a temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, revered as the protector of the city.

The first settlements in Pergamon are known to date back as early as 3000 BC. Because of its lucky location at the heart of commercial and cultural activity, the ancient city never fell from prosperity. While staying in Izmir, one of the nicest modern Aegean cities, you can visit Pergamon with its acropolis, the ancient medical center of Asclepion (built in honor of Asclepius), basilica, and the ancient spa settlement, Allianoi.

Adıyaman Nemrut

The Nemrut mountainside 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.

Aydın Aphrodisias

This unique ancient city was named after Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and love. The origins of the city could be traced back to the late Neolithic ages. Following the rise of the Roman supremacy in the region during the 2nd century BC, a holy attribute had been added to the city. Aphrodisias is located 38 km south of Nazilli, in the Geyre village of the Karacasu district. Despite the devastating effect of a major earthquake in the 7th century AD that had hit the city, it is a very well-preserved ancient site. The Temple on the north side is at the centre of the city. Together with this temple, Tetrapylon, the richly decorated gate erected in the 2nd century, is among the must-see remnants of the city. Also, the Agora, the Odeon with a capacity of 8000 seats, the Bishop’s Palace and the Baths make the scene in Aphrodisias spectacular. Prof. Kenan Erim, who started the first excavations in the area in 1961, is now buried in Aphrdoisias to which he remained fully devoted and had personal affection throughout his life. Today, only a quarter of the city has yet been brought to daylight.

Cappadocia-Historical Places

Göreme, in which there are many fairy chimneys and churches, is declared as an open air museum. Tokalı Church, the Priestesses and Priests Monastery, Saint Basil Chapel, Elmalı Church, Saint Barbara Chapel, Yılanlı (Saint Onuphrius) Church, Karanlık Church, Çarıklı Church, El Nazar Church, Saklı Church, Mother Mary (Kılıçlar Kuşluk) Church, Saint Eustathios Church and the Durmuş Kadir Churches, all of which are found within its territories, are valuable places to visit.

The valleys, which are composed of tuff rocks, between Göreme Valley and Aktepe, are known as Büyük and Küçük Kılıçlar. Kılıçlar Church is found in this valley, which has an impressive appearance with tunnels, fairy chimneys and curious shaped rocks.

Pembe Valley

The most stunning examples of the local landscape and the Fairy Chimneys can be seen along the route to Avanos. Many of these rock formations resemble animal (camels and rabbits can be seen frequently).

Kızılçukur

As a centre of grape and wine production, Kizilcukur, a couple of kilometres northwest of Ürgüp, contains churches cut into the strange rock formations and decorated with grape figures. The rocks are adorned by different colours, making them a spectacular sight at sunset.

Mustafapaşa

Located 5km from Ürgüp, the small village of Mustafapasa has old stone houses with attractive carved facades dating back to the end of the 19th century, as well as a cluster of small churches. Once known as Sinasos, while it was a thriving Greek community before World War I, it makes an interesting trip from Ürgüp, although it is not easily accessible by public transport. Places of interest include a 19th century medrese, the Ayios Vasilios Church, and the Church of Sts Constantine and Helena. There are several small guest-houses and restaurants.

Sarıhan

Sarıhan (Yellow Caravanserai), about 10km north of Ürgüp, was constructed by the Seljuk Sultan Alaattin Keykubat in 1217. It has a huge courtyard with an elaborate gateway, and was used for the loading of animals and as a resting place for travellers. It is also a unique example of the Seljuk-Turkish architecture. The road was re-laid and the building was restored in the late 1980s, and is now functioning as a museum and a cultural centre for the performances of whirling dervishes in the summer. There is rarely public transport to Sarıhan.

Halacdere

Engraved in the tuffs, these basilica-type churches were thought to have been used as hospital buildings by the Christians, and are now almost destroyed. Similar structures can also be seen in Ortahisar, such as St Peter and St Paul Churches.

Fıratkan

Firatkan is a small complex of churches, located on the road to the Göreme Open Air Museum. They have two storeys, consisting of a dormitory, dining hall, kitchen and storerooms. The storeys are connected to each other through tunnels.

Ortahisar

This village, 3 km southeast of the Goreme Valley, is most famous for its 50m high rock-castle, which is visible from the main road. It is possible to climb the rock, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. This attractive farming village also exhibits the traces of the monastery lifestyle, and is a prominent cultural and commercial centre. Other places of interest in this area include the Harim Church, Sanca Church and Cambazlı Church.

Zelve

About 5 km from Avanos and 1 km from Paşabağlari, Zelve was founded on the steep northern slopes of Aktepe. Consisting of three separate valleys, the ruins of Zelve is the area with the most ‘fairy chimneys’ – a famous sight special to Cappadocia – which here have sharp points and thick trunks. It is not known exactly when people began living in the dwellings carved into the rock, found in places like Uçhisar, Göreme, Çavuşin and Zelve. What is known is that Zelve sheltered a Christian community and became a religious centre in the 9th and 13th centuries, where, the first religious seminars for priests were held in the vicinity.

Çavuşin (Nicephorus Phocas) Church

This ancient city is found beside the Göreme-Avanos road, 2.5 km out of Göreme. The narthex of this church has fallen down. It has tunnel vaults, a high nave and 3 apses. It dates back to 964-965 A.D.

Güllüdere (St. Agathangelus) Church

This ancient city is located in the far left draw of the Güllüdere valley, about 2 km from the village of Çavuşin. It was founded at the mouth of the draw on top of a steep slope.

The shape of the nave is square, with a flat ceiling, and it has a single broad apse. The apse was added in the 9th or 10th century to the main structure dating back to the 6th – 7th century. There are 2 or 3 layers of frescoes in the apse which indicates that it was painted regularly. Symbols of Gospel authors are drawn symmetrically and are sitting on the right and left of an enthroned Jesus.

In the middle of the flat ceiling is the relief of a cross in the middle of a circle surrounded with palm leaves and garlands. This sort of relief, most probably, belongs to the Iconoclastic period. The people of the area had a great love for the cross and it continued to be used as a motif after the Iconoclastic era because it symbolized the “Holy Cross” in Jerusalem.

Özkonak Underground City

Located 14 km northeast of Avanos, this underground city was built on the northern slopes of Mt. Idis, in an area with strata made up of volcanic granite. The extensive galleries of the city are spread out over a large area and connected to each other by tunnels. The underground cities in Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, are very narrow (5 cm) and there are long holes between the different levels of the city that were used to provide communication between the different levels of the city. The ventilation of these neatly carved out rooms was provided by these holes when the city was sealed up against enemies.

The city was discovered in 1972 by the local muezzin and farmer Latif Acar, when he was trying to find out where the water disappeared, which was supposed to run towards his crops.

Similar to Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, Ozkonak has a ventilation system, a water well, a winery and rolling stone doors.

Opening hours: Summer 08.00 – 19.00; winter 08.00 – 17.00

Posted in Agean, Antakya, Aphrodisias, Assos, Aydin, Bergama, Black Sea, Bodrum, Canakkale, Cappadocia, Central Anatolia, Cesme, Dalyan, Datca, Didyma, Edirne, Enez, Ephesus, Erikli, Fethiye, Foca, Gallipoli, Gaziantep, Gelibolu, Iasos, Izmir, Iznik, Kas, Kemer, Kizkumu, Kusadasi, Kutahya, Manavgat, Mardin, Marmara, Marmaris, Mediterranean, Milas, Miletos, Mudanya, Museums, Pamukkale, Priene, Sanliurfa, Sirince, Touristic Regions, Trabzon, Trilye, Uludag, Van, WELCOME TO TURKEY | 5 Comments »

Culture & Art

October 8th, 2015

Home to numerous communities and civilizations from the beginning of history, Anatolia is also the harbor of the magnificent Turkish culture.
Turkish culture which has evolved under the influence of various communities over the centuries and spread over the extensive lands of Anatolia attracts the attention for its unique elements. At the crossroads of the East and the West, Turkish culture, from its cuisine to social life, bears the traces of different cultures.

Customs and Traditions

From rituals on special days to family relations, Turkish society still largely adheres to native customs and traditions in many areas of social life.
Birth, marriage, holiday celebrations, as well as military service sendoff gatherings are celebrated with great enthusiasm and special preparations. Reflecting the rich Anatolian culture, these traditions are among the most precious heritages of the nation.

Folk Dances

Every region has its own dances composed of unique moves and melodies. They are an essential part of all celebrations. Traditional folkloric dances are colorful visual performances and are highly enjoyable.
Zeybek performed in the Aegean region and particularly in Izmir, in addition to Horon a dance style popular in Rize and the Black Sea Region in general, and Misket, the folk dance of Ankara in Central Anatolia, are some of the well-known traditional folk dances.

Traditional and Modern Music

Music as a way of creative expression of societies has a very important place in the Anatolian culture as well.
Traditional music made with Turkish culture-specific instruments such as oud, zither, reed flute and bagpipe is one of the cornerstones of Anatolian music culture. With the development of music and technology within time different types of Turkish music have evolved.

Turkish Theatre and Cinema

Traditional Turkish theatre is constituted of types of theatrical performances such as “Karagöz,” “Meddah,” puppet theatre, “Ortaoyunu” and stage magic. Traditional theater, which has an important place in Anatolian culture, is the essence of contemporary Turkish theater.
Cinema was introduced to Anatolia by the end of the 19th century but the most productive era of Turkish cinema was the “Yeşilçam” period. Contemporary Turkish cinema is particularly on the rise nowadays with a variety of films winning awards at film festivals.
Turkey organizes a series of international film and theater festivals such as The Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival, Adana Golden Cocoon Film Festival, If Istanbul Film festival and Ankara, Istanbul and Eskişehir Theater Festivals.

Fine Arts

Fine arts which have been produced since mankind’s earliest days are an integral part of Turkish culture too.
Traditional fine arts and handicrafts such as ebru (marbling), hat (calligraphy), çini (chini) and ceramics in addition to photography constitute an integral part of Turkish culture and have evolved over time. Art enthusiasts may come across many works of fine art and handicrafts at a variety of museums and galleries.

Opera and Ballet

Opera and ballet thrived on these soils particularly during the establishment of the Turkish Republic.
Prior to that, the first opera and ballet performances were given in the Ottoman period. Nowadays, Turkey has gained a reputation for its successful performing artists.

Literature

The major works of numerous writers and poets have laid the foundation of Turkish literature for so many centuries. Turkish literature continues to grow and evolve nowadays.

Legends, folk poetry, mani (a form of oral narrative), elegy, folk songs and proverbs are among the popular narrative styles used in Turkish poems, novels and short stories.

Nobel laureate author Orhan Pamuk, in addition to Nazim Hikmet, Yaşar Kemal, Atilla Ilhan Peyami Safa and Namik Kemal are just a few widely acknowledged authors of contemporary Turkish literature.

Religious Holidays, Ceremonies and Celebrations

National and religious holidays are celebrated with great enthusiasm in Turkey every year. Religious holidays are celebrated at different time periods every year.
This year, the Ramadan feast is celebrated on August 8 – 10 while the Sacrifice holiday is celebrated on October 15- 18, 2013. In addition to public holidays there are also a variety of local festivals and special days celebrated on smaller scale.

Posted in WELCOME TO TURKEY | 2 Comments »

Ephesus

October 8th, 2015

Ephesus

Ephesus; one of the most important regions of Izmir and Turkey and the most famous Greek city of the ancient times with a heritage dating back to 6 thousand BC

The ancient city of Ephesus located close to Seljuk, a district of Izmir was established near to Küçük Menderes river during the Neolithic period.

As one of the most important 12 cities of the classical Greek period, Ephesus was a crucial religious center for both Paganism and Christianity. Today, it is still possible to see the relicss belonging to this period.

Thanks to its fertile lands and its position as a gateway of trade between East and West, Ephesus became one of the most important cities of antiquity and retained its value throughout the centuries.

Another factor that makes this site important is that the largest temple of Artemis is located in Ephesus. The cult of Artemis was a variation of the ancient cult of the Anatolian mother goddess Cybele.

Together with Milet, Ephesus was one of the two most important centers of science, art and culture. The ancient site was the birthplace of many prominent names such as the philosopher Heraclitus, the diviner Artemidorus, the poets Callinus and Hipponax, the grammarian Zenodotus, and the physicians Soranus and Rufus.

Part of the ancient city was destroyed by an earthquake in AD 614 while the other part remained fairly well preserved until the present day. Just like Izmir, Ephesus is rather hot and dry in the summer and mild and rainy in the winter as typical of an area with a Mediterranean climate.
Ephesus is waiting for all travel enthusiasts who want to explore the cradle of civilization and its incomparable architecture!

Attractions

Ephesus is the site of the most beautiful examples of ancient and natural architecture well preserved until the present day. The ancient city welcomes visitors from all over the world every year.
Established for the first time 8000 years ago, the antique city was restored several times even progressing further every time.
The amazing structures, majestic pillars and columns, the library, the streets and the temple, constructed with a view and technique ahead of the time, carry the deepest traces of the history of ancient times.
The Temple of Artemis, one of the most important monuments of Ephesus, retains its value as one of the Seven Wonders of the World since the ancient times.
The most important feature of this great temple is that it belongs to the Hellenistic period and is the first and largest structure entirely made of marble. Today, only few blocks of the temple are left. Yet, the structure still reflects its ancient glory as in the old times.
The Library of Celsius, on the other hand, is a structure of the Roman period that was both a library and mausoleum. Constructed with a technique ahead of its time, to preserve valuable books, this great library was built in the name of Gaius Celsus Polemaenos by his son and bears also Celsus’s tomb.
Saint John Cathedral which is one of the finest examples of Seljukian architecture was established by using the stone columns from the Temple of Artemis and Ephesus. Visitors of Ephesus should not leave before seeing the earliest example of both Turkish mosques with courtyards and Anatolian style mosques with columns.
Another site of Ephesus is the St John’s Basilica built in honor of St. John by Byzantine Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. It is assumed that the six-doomed basilica harbors also the tomb of St. John. The largest structure of the period, the basilica is located in Ayasuluk and of great importance to Christians.
The Magnesia Gate, Eastern Gymnasium, Odeon, State Agora, Prytaneion, Memmius Monument, House of Love, Hillside Houses, Theater, Ayasuluk Castle are among the other well-known structures of Ephesus still intact in the present day.
Of utmost importance to Christianity, the House of Virgin Mary, where Virgin Mary took shelter together with St. John after the death of Christ is located at Bülbüldağı. The House is situated amidst a majestic forest in pristine nature and is supposedly the site where Mary had lived until she died.
According to legend, prior to the legalization of Christianity, seven young people running away from the persecution of pagans took shelter in a cave and slept there for two centuries. The site was later on referred to as the site of Seven Sleepers and turned into a mausoleum in memory of the sleepers. The ruins of four-layered structure of the monument are partially preserved.
Enthusiasts of ancient civilizations should definitely not miss the opportunity to explore the fabulous monuments of ancient times!

Events

Ephesus, which has been the most important cultural center for centuries, is also the venue of major festivals.
The Seljuk Ephesus Culture and Art Festival is held in September each year to introduce the historical heritage of the region to the world.
Apart from that, audiences listening to the concerts performed amidst the magical and historical atmosphere of the ancient theatre of Ephesus leave the site with unforgettable memories.
Indeed, holiday makers who want to connect with the ancient times are more than welcome in Ephesus!

How can I get there?

One of the most important ancient cities of history, Ephesus is within easy reach of Aydin and Izmir.
There are direct flights to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport from many destinations around the world. Shuttles and other means of transportation stationed outside of the airport gate will be in your service to take you to Ephesus.
Ephesus is 3 km away from Seljuk near to Izmir and on the route of many bus companies as it is situated on one of the major intersections of the area. The site can be reached easily via transportation vehicles that leave from the central bus sation in Izmir and Aydin.
Furthermore, it is possible to get to Ephesus by getting on a minibus from Seljuk district terminal to Ephesus or by renting a bicycle in Seljuk whereby you will have the chance to explore the local area.

Posted in Ephesus, Touristic Regions, WELCOME TO TURKEY | 3 Comments »

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