Turkish history

Turkish delight's intriguingly sweet history

Its origins are sticky but one thing is certain: Turkish delight is one of the world's favourite sweets. No one seems to know for sure whether Turkish delight or lokum was invented 300 years ago or is a much more ancient sweet, but the confection, - rolled in coconut or sugar, filled with nuts, and coloured delicate shades of pink or yellow - is found in every corner of the globe.

turkish cuisine Turkish history
2015-May-16

7 unknown incredible historical Turkish sites

The ruins and underground cities of Turkey are some of the best preserved in the world. And excitingly, they’re still being discovered and excavated, gradually revealing a window into a long ago era. We’ve made a list of seven historical sites that are off the beaten track, and not for the fair weather traveller. The beauty of the internet, however, means that you won’t have to leave your home to get an insight into these incredible sites. Read on to discover a little about Turkey’s secret history.

tourism in turkey , culture Turkish history
2015-February-17

Demise of an Empire: What Finished the Ottoman Era?

Originally a nomadic tribe, the Ottoman Empire stretches as far back as 1299, yet it was not until 1453 when they captured the Byzantine city of Constantinople that the eyes of the world would focus on them. With a presence still felt throughout Turkey today in architecture and culture, the empire was the focus point between the West and the East, but what happened to the Ottomans? Take a trip into Turkish history and look at just how and why the Ottoman Empire is no longer in existence.

Turkish history ottoman empire
2015-April-23

A city of ghosts: the forgotten city of Ani

Once one of the largest cities in the world, Ani, located on Turkey's eastern border with Armenia, is now a windswept monument to history. The UNESCO site high on a hilltop is the ideal place to get away from the world, while getting a sense of the majesty and complexity of Turkey's long history.

Turkish history travel
2020-May-11

What are the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Turkey?

The World Heritage Sites in Turkey join many other countries to form an impressive collection of well-preserved historical and cultural sites that beat any history book. Often referred to as open-air museums, they tell stories of earlier civilisations, living trends and urban traditions. An organisation called UNESCO works with relevant government bodies in each country to preserve these protected areas.

tourism in turkey , culture Turkish history
2015-August-13

Topkapi Palace: seat of an empire

Turkey's largest city, Istanbul is home to many gems and beautiful sites that attract millions every year to the city. However, not many are as grand as Topkapi Palace - designed and built by Sultan Mehmed II in 1459 and completed some six years later, the palace, when it was completed, was surrounded by five kilometres of walls and occupied an area of 700,000 square metres - a stunning site back then, and still today. Any visit to Istanbul is an empty visit unless you take in the breathtaking Topkapi Palace. Here is our total guide to getting the most out of your visit.

culture , istanbul , tourism in turkey , Turkish history , ottoman empire
2014-May-13

10 Iconic Historical Attractions in Turkey: Places to Explore

To explore historical attractions in Turkey is to delve into one of history’s most diverse and varied stories. Turkish history is not as straightforward as many think. Having been ruled by many empires over the centuries, we see styles including Ottoman and Byzantine buildings in Istanbul, Mediterranean and Lycian ancient cities and Russian landmarks in the northeast Black sea Region.

tourism in turkey , culture Turkish history
2019-October-22

The mysterious life of the Fisherman of Halicarnassus

The Fisherman of Halicarnassus is a name many have heard, but few know the history behind the intriguing personality that has left an indelible mark on the Bodrum Peninsula. Marie Coggin, a longtime resident of Bodrum, explores the myth and legend surrounding the mysterious poet, prisoner and raconteur.

life in turkey , Turkish history bodrum
2018-November-22

8 reasons everyone should visit Turkey in the spring

Whatever time of year you choose to visit Turkey, you’re sure to be enthralled by this incredible country. Of course, some seasons are better suited to certain activities, whether that’s sunny days on the beach, racing down the snowy ski slopes, or soaking up the wealth of culture on offer throughout the country.However, many visitors neglect spring, choosing to holiday in Turkey during the summer months instead. What many fail to realise is how much there is to see and do in Turkey during spring, with the added benefits of lovely weather and fewer tourists. Find out more about why we think everyone should take a trip to Turkey during the spring.

turkey , tourism in turkey , turkish cuisine , turkey travel tips and must see's , Turkish history travel
2018-March-04

Why everyone’s talking about Troy

The ancient city of Troy has long fascinated historians and lovers of a good story. But did it ever exist? Was there ever a famous battle? These questions and more will be explored at a new museum at Troy, dedicated to the history and mythology of the famous ancient site.

turkey Turkish history
2018-March-01

What to See in Ephesus: Landmarks of the Ancient Ruins

Without a doubt, Ephesus on the Aegean coast of Turkey was one of the greatest cities in history, but these days is also one of the most impressive ancient ruins to see in the world. It is impossible to estimate the tremendous amount of hours that have gone into excavating and restoring prominent landmarks of the old city, but there is plenty to see.

tourism in turkey , Turkish history
2016-September-20

12 amazing Turkish innovations and firsts that changed the course of history

Turkey’s long history is full of firsts - hardly surprising in a country that has played host to some of the world’s greatest and most progressive empires, including the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans. While you might know one or two of these facts, read on to discover a few of the lesser-known innovations - and innovators - that have come out of Turkey to change the course of world history.

Turkish history
2016-August-18

Patara: the shifting sands of an ancient Lycian civilisation

Beautiful Patara is much more than the eighteen kilometre expanse of sand that attracts thousands of visitors each year. It was also home to an ancient Lycian civilisation - one of the most important centres in the ancient world. Explore the white sands and the ruins of Patara, just a short drive from neighbouring Kalkan or Kas.

beaches in turkey , Turkish history , kas kalkan
2016-August-16

A tale of blood and slaughter: the fall of Constantinople

May 29 marks the anniversary of The fall of Constantinople, in 1453. Although the Byzantine occupants of the city were outnumbered ten to one they fought valiantly against the invading Ottoman army. The 53-day siege and subsequent conquering of the city marked a turning point not just for the Ottoman Empire, but for the future of Islam, Turkey and the wider world.

Turkish history istanbul
2016-May-27

11 Underrated Ancient Sites to Visit in Turkey

As one of the most fascinating countries for history, Turkey attracts millions of foreign visitors looking to sample some of the historical attractions in Turkey. But while most tourists beat a path to the likes of Cappadocia, Ephesus, or old Istanbul, dozens of other ancient sites receive little or no recognition, from the rest of the world. With more than 60 sites waiting for ratification as UNESCO World Heritage sites, here are some of the best ancient sites to visit in Turkey.

tourism in turkey , Turkish history culture
2016-April-18

Architectural Styles of Turkey Ottomans to today

With so much history attached to Turkey, it is no surprise that Turkish architecture has been influenced over the years by many different factors and styles. This is from original and traditional pieces starting from the Ottoman houses, to the fall of the Empire introducing a new generation of architecture and to the current period of modern metamorphosis of Turkish design taking the nation into the 21st century and beyond as a trend-setter in style and exciting presentation. Lets take a look at the historical and future look of architectural property styles in Turkey.

culture , ottoman empire Turkish history
2014-February-04