Zeugma Mosaic Museum " Must See"

Zeugma

The ancient city of Zeugma was settled on the banks of the Euphrates River, 45 kilometers away from Gaziantep close to a village called "Belkis" in the town of Nizip. It was the 4th most important settlement of Kommagene Kingdom. 

Interior of Zeugma Mosaic Museum

The population of the city was approximately 80.000 people. The name of the city comes from Romans who ruled the city after 64BC. and means "Bridge" because of the strategical importance. Those wonderful villas built during Roman times and decorated with the most beautiful examples of Roman mosaics.

Unfortunately, archaeologists were able to work in Zeugma for a short time as the city now beneath the rising waters of a several dam constructions. Mosaics are now protegted in the modern museum of Gaziantep. Some mosaics from the museum follows:

Latrines

Gypsy Girl Mosaic

Eros & Psyche Mosaic

Achilleus Mosaic

Gaziantep "A Food Paradise"

Known as the city of pistachios nuts and sweet Turkish baklava (Pastry covered with sweet syrup and filled with nuts), Gaziantep has a set cultural route for visitors to be  introduced to local traditions including the old copper bazaar, coffee houses and whirling dervish lodge. 

Gaziantep Zincirli Bedesten

Formally called Antep, its popular attraction is the Zeugma mosaic covering a massive 1700 meters and displaying marvelously intact mosaics from the ancient city of Zeugma that used to sit on the Euphrates River.

Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum

Gaziantep is a real paradise for food lovers. Still kebabs is the main dish but you can enjoy different flavor in here. Imam Cagdas Restaurant is the best place to taste local dishes as well as delicious lahmacun. 

Imam Cagdas Restaurant, Gaziantep

You may also try local coffee shops who serve Menengic Coffee which is made by wild pistachios used to make a caffeine-free coffee.Of course, its not a rel coffee but you may try. Its a wonderful option for the people who does not like caffeine and have difficulty to sleep after drink a coffee. The best place is Tahmis Kahvesi to try it but you can also try local coffee shops which also has cave rooms.

Coffee Shop in Gaziantep

Of course,  Baklava : most delicious, most crunchy, most amazing baklava can be eaten in Gaziantep. There are different brands but we most liked the one we tasted in Kocak Baklava. There is also a shop in the center called " Hacıoglu" it was good too.

Baklava Shop in Gaziantep

Gaziantep is also paradise for shopping. You may find all kinds of artwork, handcraft, local souvenirs with much more reasonable prices.

Remember these ? Brad Pitt wear a pair in movie of Troy... Most of them produced for Hollywood films.

Visit to "The Hidden Land" Eastern Turkey

Thanks to the Internet, travel to Eastern Turkey is becoming more popular, sought after by people who crave more than sandy beaches and home comforts. 

Eastern Turkey offers a completely distinctive experience, steeped in culture and tradition; it is a lifestyle incomparable with Western values and trends. It is more conservative than the West coast of Turkey and ancient values are very much existent in everyday life. 

Traditional Beehive Houses in Eastern Turkey

Some notable places to visit include...

The ruins of Ani in Kars are on the outskirts of the city of Kars and near the border with Armenia. They are a large collection of ancient churches, built inside the walls of an ancient Armenian kingdom. Nicknamed “city of 1001 churches,” excavation and restoration took place in the last century to rebuild a number of notable structures.

Akdamar Armenian Church in Van

Lake Van is the largest lake in Turkey and the highest point. Ideal times to visit are in summer because winter weather elements are harsh with temperatures often plunging into the minuses. Many civilizations have ruled over the area in the past including the Armenians, Byzantines and Seljuks. As a result, not only is a place of natural beauty but there is plenty of historical attractions to visit including the castle, Church of the Holy Cross and ancient Armenian monasteries.

Mardin is a contender for the UNESCO World Heritage Site list because of its ancient buildings with Arabic architecture trends. The narrow cobbled streets leading down the hillside often feature in most publications about the southeast of Turkey. Nearby sites to see include the ruins of Dara, an old Roman city, the old town of Midyat and Deyrulzafaran monastery belonging to the Syriac Orthodox religion.

Mardin

Visit to Troy " Legendary City"

Troy is another highlight and touristic place located in Northwest Turkey. You might be surprised to hear that Troy is in Turkey as many people think its in Greece.

Troy

You can visit the legendary city of Troy while travelling from Gallipoli to Izmir. Listed as a UNESCO world heritage site since 1998, excavations started in 1865. It took a lot of hard work and research before archaeologists were convinced they have found Troy.

First excavations made by Heinrich Schliemann who was a professional thief but introduced himself as an archaeologist. He destroyed most of the ruins while searching for the treasures. So not much to see on ground except bases of some buildings and a wooden horse which represents the horse used by Greeks. Nowadays horse occupied by Japanese tourists. 

Legendary Horse of Troy

During the Trojan War, Greeks used a large, man-made wooden horse to enter the legendary city of Troy. Inside sat elite fighters who waited until night before creeping out and opening the gates to let the rest of their army in.

Some historians have suspected that the story is fabricated and the wooden horse was simply a large wooden ram, however they all agree that the city was located near Canakkale. 

Troy Today

The Battle of Gallipoli and Anzac Tour

At the time of World War One, Canakkale was under Ottoman rule, however they were on the losing side of the war. Their empire was due to be carved up and divided among the winning forces. A few select men managed to rise everyone up against this invasion and the Turkish war of independence started.

Anzac Soldiers in Gallipoli

The battle of Gallipoli took place when the French and British attempted to gain control of the Dardanelles strait, a strategic and important point. They however made one small error that cost them the battle; they landed on the wrong beach. 

Thousands of men died in the battle that lasted for many months under horrific conditions. Every year, on the morning of April the 25th, dawn services start to commemorate Anzac day. New Zealanders and Australians travel to Turkey to honour the memories of the fallen and their ancestors.

Gallipoli Memorials

The most popular places to visit in Gallipoli ;

·      Brighton Beach,

·      Beach Cemetery,

·      ANZAC Cove,

·      Ariburnu Cemetery,

·      ANZAC Commemorative Site,

·      Respect to Mehmetcik Statue

·      Lone Pine Australian Memorial,

·      Johnston's Jolly, (Turkish and Allied trenches and tunnels),

·      57. Regiment Turkish Memorial

·      The Nek,

·      Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial, 

·         Namazgah Battery,

·         Rumeli Mecidiye Battery,

·         Seyit Onbaşi (Corporal Seyit),

·         Top of Alcitepe, (Achibaba)

·         Turkish Memorial,

·         French Cemetery,

·         V Beach,

·         Ertugrul Battery,

·         Helles Memorial,

·         Lancashire Landing Cemetery,

·         X Beach, Twelve Trees Copse Cemetery,

·         Alcitepe (Krithia) 

Trip to Canakkale-Gallipoli and Troy

On the North West coast of Turkey, sits the Dardanelles straits and within that is the famous town of Canakkale. It belongs to both Asia and Europe but that is not the reason for its popularity.

Map of Canakkale

Most people visit because of two connections; it is the closest town to the ancient and historical site of Troy. It is also sadly, where the battle of Gallipoli took place and over 50,000 men lost their lives. 

Canakkale is 7 hours drive away from Istanbul. Thus a day trip might be very tiring due to long drive so I definetely recommend a night stay in Gallipoli or Canakkale.

Sebi Arus Night and Whirling Dervishes Ceremony

Last Friday, we were able to attend Seb-i Arus Ceremonies in Istanbul. "Seb-i Arus" means Wedding Day as its the day of his reunion with his Beloved with the Divine.

Whirling Dervishes

Mevlana is very important Philosopher for us. Even today, the wisdom of this man who lived in the 13th century has earned him a place as one of the world’s bestselling poets.

The Ceremony started with the concert of Tasavvuf Musicians, who were dressed in traditional clothes.

Tasavvuf Musicians

Dervishes Greeted each other before the ceremony...

Then they started to whirl...

Then amazing ritual of the Dervishes started ...

Visit Konya The Land Of Whirling Dervishes

December 17th is the night of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi's death who was the founder of Sufi Philosophy. On that day "Seb-i Arus" means "Wedding Day" celebrated as Mevlana believed his reunion with his Beloved, with the Divine. Ceremonies held in Konya and it was very good chance to watch a real Whirling Dervishes Ceremony.

Tomb of Mevlana and Mosque

Konya was one of the first inhabited cities in the world and to this day, it still contains traces of many ancient civilizations that have earned it the nickname of a museum city.

Its location in the middle of the barren Anatolian plains is significant because it was a major stopping point on the ancient and exotic Silk Road.

Spice and cotton traders traveling from the Middle East to Europe used to stop there overnight in one of the many stone caravansaries of which a few can be seen today.

The main reason for anyone to visit is to see the shrine of the famous poet, philosopher, and ancient Sufi master called Rumi. 

The Konya Alaeddin Mosque was constructed between the 12th and 13th century. It is in perfectly preserved condition and is a major landmark of the city. It was originally a Christian basilica but was converted in 1080 when Seljuk Turks captured the city. The grounds hold the gravestones of a number of sultans of the Seljuk dynasty.

Konya Alaaddin Mosque 

Konya Archaeological Museum opened in 1962 and has many artefacts from civilization up to the Byzantine era. They include Greek artefacts and sarcophagus from Roman times.

Konya Museum

Konya is also well known for its traditional carpets, made painstaking by hand for many months by local women. They first came to the attention of the traveller Marco Polo when he said, “they are the most beautiful carpets I have ever seen”. Carpets shops are situated in the city however we advise you take your guide with you to ensure you are buying an authentic and genuine carpet.

Day Trip to Meis (Kastellorizo) from Kas

If you are staying in Kas or Kalkan you should not miss a day trip to the Greek island of Meis is a beautiful and quite island with colorful houses. Its chance for you to experience Greek Breeze on the Mediterranean.

Meis Island

A day trip to Meis is more than enough as you can explore the island in few hours. You can book your ferry tickets from Meis express around 25-20 EUROs per person for return ticket. Don't forget that you need a schengen visa to as Meis is part of Greece.

Meis Express Ferry office in Kas

The trip around half an hour and you have free time (5-6 hours) to spend in the island. Although in 30 minutes you can explore the center, you may walk in back streets to discover colorful architecture.

Colorful Houses of Meis

The island is paradise for photographers and you can take wonderful pictures.

Dolphins

There are few hotels in the island and some bed and breakfasts owned by locals. However, I would not suggest an overnight in Meis if you are a party lover. 

Pension in Meis

Another attraction in the island is Blue Cave, you can hire a boat for a round trip journey. You may enjoy 15 minutes swim or take wonderful pictures.

Blue Cave

Dont forget to taste delicious Greek food in one of the restaurants. It can be a good escape from Turkish kebabs.

Fresh Calamari

Discover Kas and Olympos "Hidden Resorts of Turkey"

Among the amazing resorts of Antalya, my favorites are Cirali (Olympos) and Kas because of their untouched nature. They are still not effected by mass tourism and recently discovered by some knowledgeable people. So you must be hurry to to enjoy them.

Olympos Beach

Cirali is a small, one street rustic village with cheap accommodation and the area is ideal for hikers and trekkers. The long beach is also protected because of loggerhead turtles that lay their eggs in the sand.

Flowers in Kas

Kaş (pronounced cash) is everything that a typical Mediterranean seaside resort in Turkey should be. White washed houses cascade down the winding mountain roads to show the way to beautiful beaches and a harbor.

Things to do in Antalya

Antalya offers everything from the history to nature, archaeology to beach holiday. Beautiful Mediterranean sea, wonderful beaches and amazing hotels meet with Lycian history. Of course there are lots to do in the region but do not miss these activities listed below if you stay in Antalya.

Aspendos Theatre

The ancient Greco-Roman ruins of Aspendos is a must see. Suspected to date from 1000BC, it was often the focus of invasion, specifically by Alexander the Great and the Romans. 

History lovers should head to the city centre to view the impressive Hadrian’s Gate that is the entrance into the old town. Nearby, the large archaeological museum holds many artifacts from across Turkey while the local landmark of Hidirlik tower is said to date from the second century .A day should be spent in this old part of the city known as Kaleici.

Antalya Museum

Visit the Ancient City of Perge, the place where most of the statues on display in Antalya Museum were unearthed.

The theater stage has finely carved marble reliefs, and other carvings from around the city are displayed in the stadium.

Amateur archaeologists will want to see the handsome city gate flanked by two lofty towers, a long colonnaded road once paved with mosaics and lined with shops, a large agora, the public baths and a gymnasium.

Manavgat Waterfalls

Gushing waterfalls are plentiful in Antalya with the most popular being Duden that flows into the sea. Manavgat also features on most daily excursions and it has a traditional Turkish tea garden to relax in.

Mount Tahtali cable car ride should be first on the list because it gives an amazing panoramic view over the coastline and backing Taurus Mountains. During high season, be prepared for long queues.

Explore "Turkish Riviera" Antalya

Looking for a riviera holiday in Turkey? My recommendation will be The Antalya region is the second most popular holiday destination in Turkey after Istanbul. 

Walking in Antalya

It attracts everyone from rich and influential millionaires to budget holidaymakers. The long sandy beaches and typical Mediterranean climate lure all nationalities from British, Russians, Scandinavians, and Americans. 

While Antalya city centre has many attractions, hotels, bar and restaurants, people tend to flock to the nearby coastal resorts of which a few include…

Alanya is popular because of its long, sandy beaches, landmark historical castle, and the nearby mountain regions. The resort is open all year round although in winter, sunbathing is definitely off the agenda.

Mediterranean Coast of Antalya

Kemer is typically a manmade resort that heavily features five star all inclusive hotels and large nightclubs. This destination is a favorite for Russians.

Side has the added bonus of the historical amphitheater and structures in the heart of the resort. At the end of the harbour stands the ancient temple of Apollo and the nighttime bars here, make ideal environments for relaxing with close company, while dining on fine food and wine.

Temple of Apollo in Side

Belek is the golfing capital of Turkey. Tiger Woods and other big names have played in many golf courses. This resort is small but ideal if you want luxury at no cost.

Luxury Hotel in Belek 

Gulet Cruising in Turkey

Throughout history and all around the coastline of Turkey, locals have taken to fishing or sponge diving as their main trade. In the beginning, they built small boats but over time, these grew bigger to accommodate sleeping and cooking quarters.

Gulet Cruise

Life was good and then one day, a stranger landed in the small coastal village of Bodrum. His name was Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı and he had been exiled to the region as punishment for his writing work that went against government protocol.

First signs showed he was depressed at this move but gradually, he started venturing out, meeting the locals and exploring the coastline. One day he decided to hire a local fishingman and his boat to sail around the coastline.

Cevat was so excited at this newfound hobby so he invited friends to join him. They left for weeks at a time, visiting ancient ruins and small coastal villages that were at that time, relatively unknown. He also started selling excursions and the beginning of the gulet cruise industry had begun.

Cevat is widely credited with boosting tourism to the region and through his writing work, bringing Turkey to the attention of scholars and historians. Even after his exile was over, he remained in Bodrum, having only spent a brief time in Istanbul. His legacy is of the Fisherman of Halicarnassus.

Today, the coastline regions that are included in all major gulet cruises are named the Turkish Riviera. It receives thousands of visitors every year from the rich and elite who sail in their private yachts to the budget traveller, boarding multipurpose cabin boats.

Standart Cabin in a Gulet

Stretching from Antalya on the Mediterranean coast, to Izmir on the Aegean, the routes visit a variety of natural landmarks, ancient ruins such as Phaseslis and Patara as well as small fishing villages, where tourists can still gain an insight into traditional Turkish life away from tourist and man made destinations.

Gulet Deck

The season traditionally runs from May to October although July to September are considered the best months to sail because this is the height of summer. Most major gullet cruise companies have also extended their routes to cover the Greek islands as well.

Turquoise Coast