The Republic of Turkey is a country partly in Asia, and partly in Europe along the Balkan Peninsula. The country is full of history, from the Roman empire, to the Ottomans, to gaining its independence as its own country in 1923! One way to learn the stories of Turkey throughout its history is by visiting some of its ancient ruins, and to help you plan which ones to visit, here is a list of the best ancient ruins to visit while on an expedition to Turkey!
Ephesus - This was the original Roman capital in Asia Minor, and was home to over 250,000 people during its peak time, until 2 AD. Archeologists have been excavating the site for over 150 years, and have revealed the most complete Greco-Roman classical city ever discovered! The Temple of Artemis is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World! Ephesus is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Blue Mosque - Construction of this brilliant mosque began in 1609, led by Sultan Ahmed I. He wanted to create a mosque that could rival Hagia Sophia. Upon completion in 1616, the Blue Mosque, also known as Sultanahmet Camii, featured over 20,000 ceramic tiles handmade in the city of Iznik. Although Ahmed I passed away only one year after the mosque opened, its amazing design and details are still loved to this day.
Göbeklitepe - Prior to the discovery of Göbeklitepe, it was believed that Stonehenge was the oldest known man-made place of worship, dating back to 3,000 BC. However, when Göbeklitepe was discovered, it was found that these megalith stones are almost 6,500 years older than Stonehenge! How cool is that? Although Göbeklitepe is still being excavated and only parts of the area have been recovered, a replica of the sacred site with the unearthed pillars is on display at the Şanlıurfa Haleplibahçe Museum!
Nemrut - Also known as Nemrud, this ancient site on top of a mountain is home to the 1st-century tomb of King Antiochus I Epiphanes. The site has become famous because it features multiple 30ft-high statues of mythological creatures. Over time, the statues have worn down, and many heads of the statues have toppled off their respective bodies, but the place is amazing to see! It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Want a tip? Visit the site either at sunrise or sunset to beat the crowds, and to get some stellar photos!
Göreme Valley - Located in Cappadocia, Göreme Valley is one of the most unique and nontraditional spots you’ll ever visit! The valley was a hub of activity for those of the Christian faith as they fled from persecution during the 2nd-century AD. Today, it is an open air-style museum where visitors can view about 30 ancient churches roughly-cut into rocks, and surrounded by stone pillars. Göreme is also home to some of the best-preserved frescoes in Cappadocia!
Aspendos - The first written history of the Aspendos Roman Theater was by the Hittites in 800 BC. This 15,000-seat amphitheater was once the entertainment center for citizens of the ancient city of Aspendos, founded by Greeks from Argos. Today, it is home to the International Festival Opera and Ballet Festival, or you can just visit for the day!
Hagia Sophia - The previously mentioned Blue Mosque got its inspiration from this 6th-century church-turned-mosque. Originally built by Constantinople the Great in 500 AD, this Byzantine-style church was a religious center for those of the Eastern Orthodox faith. However, it was converted to a mosque in 1453 by Sultan Mehmed II when Constantinople was conquered by the Ottoman Turks. Visitors today can see both its Muslim and Christian influences reflected through its architecture.
Kayaköy - The deserted town of Kayaköy has an amazing atmosphere. It is perched high on a hill, and only recently made its mark on the tourist map after the release of the novel ‘Birds Without Wings’ by Louis de Bernières. The novel is set in the fictional town of Eskibahçe, inspired by Kayaköy. The once bustling town of about 500 homes is now an open air-style museum.
Sumela Monastery - For those willing to take the steep path and staircase through the trees of Altindere National Park, you will be greeted with a breathtaking site. Sumela Monastery sits on a cliff edge about 300 meters in the sky. The Byzantine-style monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It was founded by two Athenian priests in 500 AD. The stories say that the priests found an icon of the Virgin Mary near the site, believing it to be the work of Apostle Luke. Visitors can now visit this monastery, which has since been converted to a museum.
Aphrodisias - Named after the Greek goddess Aphrodite, this ancient city was a source of marble during the Hellenistic and Roman times. Marble statues and decorations were sent out of Aphrodisias to places all over the empire. This city quickly became home to many master sculptors, and remnants of their works have been unearthed in this city, which is now an open air-style museum.
Throughout the centuries, Turkey has been a part of many empires and moments in history. The ancient ruins have captured the stories of Turkey’s history, and if you listen closely, they will share their stories with you. Convinced that Turkey should be on your bucket list? An expedition with Acanela to Turkey could include exploring the beautiful cities of Cappadocia (complete with an amazing hot air balloon ride) and Istanbul! Click here to learn more, or you can always send an email to expeditions@acanela.com and we’ll be happy to answer your questions!