The country of Turkey is spread over two continents: Europe and Asia. Not only does the country belong to two continents in terms of topography, society is also a melting pot of modern Western influences, Arab culture and Islam as the most important religion by far. You can tell that Turkey lies on the dividing line of two worlds by the fact that it is never seen as 100 percent European, but is also not counted as part of the Middle East by most sources. It is precisely the mix of culture that makes Turkey so interesting as a country. It provides a unique identity. Turkey is very popular as a holiday destination among Dutch tourists. Most fly to Turkey to enjoy the sun, sea and all-inclusive hotels. Yet you see a growing number of tourists who show interest in the many sights that the country has to offer. Anyone who takes the trouble to leave the luxury resort will be faced with a beautiful country full of hospitable people and beautiful highlights. Check topmbadirectory for how to get to Turkey.
Top 10 sights of Turkey
#1. Istanbul (Istanbul)
This city is the only one in the world divided over two continents, Europe and Asia. The Bosphorus (a strait) runs right through Istanbul and is still a busy shipping route. But there is more to Istanbul. Istanbul has a rich culture. You will still find very old bathhouses ‘Hamam’, there is a very large oriental palace ‘Topkapi Palace’ to visit and there is always something to do along the city wall of Istanbul. The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, also known as the blue mosque, should certainly not be missed.
#2. Bodrum
Bodrum is a tourist destination with famous landmarks. Think of the Petrusburcht with its five towers. Now this castle is a museum where you can find treasures that enjoy international fame. For example, there is a late Bronze Age shipwreck and glass molds from the 14th century BC. Visit the Greek Theater which is still used for concerts or dive into Bodrum’s vibrant nightlife. Check simplyyellowpages for mass media and culture of Turkey.
#3. Ankara
Ankara is the capital of Turkey. It is primarily a commercial and industrial city. The city has become very famous for its Angora goat with its mohair wool, white rabbits for their angora wool, muscat grapes and the Angora cat. The city also has a historic center which is located on a hill and from where you have a beautiful view of the city. A few old buildings around the old citadel have been preserved. For example, the Temple of Augustus and the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
#4. Ephesus
The nickname of Ephesus is also ‘ruin city’. It is even referred to as one of the most beautiful ruin complexes in the western world. This most important archaeological area of Turkey has very large excavations from Greek antiquity from about 1100 BC. To name a few: Temple of Artemis, Gate of Hercules, Temple of Hadrian, Odeon of Ephesus, Tomb of Apostle John, Library of Celsus and the Gate of Mazaeus and Mithridates.
#5. Rock formations of Cappadocia
About 30 million years ago, these rock formations of Cappadocia slowly formed. Emerging from the then erupting volcano, the environment filled with an erosion-prone material and peat stone. This has slowly worn away over the years and this is how the rocks were created. This area of 300 km², together with surrounding places such as Ürgüp and Göreme, attracts many tourists who visit this enchanting region.
#6. Göbekli Tepe
This mountain sanctuary in southern Turkey, about 11,550 years old, is the oldest known temple complex in the world. Traces from the Stone Age have even been found. Monolithic T-shaped pillars, terrazzo floors from the Roman Empire and abstract pictograms are found in the various layers. The fact that there is still a lot to be found is evident from the fact that only 1.5% of the area has been excavated.
#7. Marmaris
A very famous seaside resort in Turkey is Marmaris. The marina of Marmaris ‘Netsel Marmaris’ is one of the largest and most luxurious in Turkey. Here you will find everything you can expect from a modern marina. Restaurants, bars, entertainment, shops, ATMs and travel agencies. Of course it is also possible to book luxury boat trips from here to, for example, Rhodes. But Marmaris has more to offer. You have a beautiful Marmaris castle, which is now a museum. From this castle you have a very nice view over the marina. There is a very large bazaar and you will find Greek Renaissance houses in the old quarter around the castle.
#8. Pergamon
This present-day Bergama in Turkey was once a rich and powerful city. It is still a rich city, but with monumental temples, fountains, gymnasia and theaters. This place once consisted of three towns that were connected by stairs and terraces. There was also once a healing spring, where many mentally ill people were treated.
#9. Lara
This place is a district of Antalya and is also called the ‘Las Vegas’ of Turkey. It is full of themed hotels like you see them in Las Vegas. There are also waterfalls where the water falls straight into the sea.
#10. Sümela Monastery
The Sümela Monastery is built against a rock wall in the Zigana Mountains in Maçka. The monastery is located in the Altindere National Park and is located at an altitude of about 1200 meters. The rock church in the monastery is completely covered with frescoes inside and out.
