The Anatolian Civilizations Museum in Ankara, is one of my favorite museums in the world (as usual don’t ask me to rank anything – just accept it’s one of the best) In attractive displays it highlights the rich history and cultural heritage of the Anatolia (most of modern Turkey).
Author: Cascoly
I've been exploring and leading trips for over 40 years. climbing & trekkng in the Alps, Andes, North American mountain ranges and the Himalaya. I'm retired from mountaineering now but world travels in Europe, Africa & Asia continue to expand my portfolio. Besides private travel, I now focus on escorting trips to India & Turkey. Other interests include wide reading in history and vegetable gardening / cooking. You can download digital images here, or find images at https://steve-estvanik.pixels.com. We have many thousands of images we haven't displayed yet; so, if you have a special need or request please contact us
Gordium – When Alexander the Great met King Midas
When Alexander the Great visited Gordium he couldn’t unravel the knot conventionally. Frustrated(?), he simply cut it with his sword. This bold act was interpreted as fulfilling the prophecy,
Early Christian and Ottoman history in Bursa, Iznik and Nicaea
Bursa is in the Marmara region of Turkey Historical Importance: Bursa was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, serving as its capital from 1326 to 1365 before Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) took its place. The city played a crucial role in the early years of the Ottoman Empire’s expansion. Cultural and Architectural Heritage: Bursa boasts… Continue reading Early Christian and Ottoman history in Bursa, Iznik and Nicaea
Whirling Dervishes & Camel Hotel – Konya & Sultanhani
We visit Konya on our 2024 small group tour Konya has a rich history and cultural significance, often referred to as the “city of whirling dervishes” due to its historical association with the Mevlevi Order, a Sufi sect that practices the spiritual dance known as the “whirling dervish” dance. One of the most prominent landmarks… Continue reading Whirling Dervishes & Camel Hotel – Konya & Sultanhani
Ephesus & Temple of Artemis – Ancient Wonder of the World
Ephesus is an ancient Greek and Roman city. It was one of the most important and prosperous cities in the ancient world, known for its monumental architecture, thriving economy, and cultural significance. The Terrace Houses, also known as the Terrace Villas or the Houses of the Rich, are a prominent archaeological site within Ephesus that provides insights into the daily lives of the wealthy residents of the city.
Along the Lycian Coast – Dalyan, Xanthos, Fetiye and Saklikent Gorge
The Lycian Coast, also known as the Lycian Way, refers to a stunning stretch of coastline along the southern part of Turkey, in the region historically known as Lycia. Lycia was an ancient civilization that existed in this region, and the Lycian Coast is renowned for its natural beauty, historical sites, and hiking opportunities
Aphrodisias & Laodicea – Greek and Roman Cultural Centers
The ancient city of Aphrodisias is known for its rich history, archaeological remains, and its association with the goddess Aphrodite. Early History: Aphrodisias was initially settled in the 5th millennium BCE, prominence during the Hellenistic period. It was named after the goddess Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, beauty, and fertility. The city became a… Continue reading Aphrodisias & Laodicea – Greek and Roman Cultural Centers
Bodrum – Ancient Wonder and Medieval Fortress
We visit this site on our 2024 small group tour Bodrum is located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, known for its rich history and picturesque setting. Here’s an overview of the history of Bodrum: Ancient Halicarnassus: Bodrum was originally known as Halicarnassus in ancient times. It was founded by the Dorians in the 11th… Continue reading Bodrum – Ancient Wonder and Medieval Fortress
From Turkey to Rhodes by Ferry
Rhodes [Greek: Ρόδος,] is the largest of the Dodecanese islands of Greece and is their historical capital; it is the ninth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. Here’s a brief overview of the history of Rhodes:
Greek Temples of Athena and Apollo – exploring Didyma and Priene
The most prominent feature of Didyma was the Temple of Apollo, known as the Didymaion. This temple was famous for its colossal size and its elaborate decoration,
Priene was an ancient Greek city located in the region of Ionia, in modern-day Turkey. It was situated near the Maeander River and the city of Miletus. Priene is known for its well-preserved ruins that provide valuable insights into the urban planning and architecture of ancient Greek cities