G Turkiye

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  • Travel Priene – an unforgettable journey into the ancient world

    Travel Priene – an unforgettable journey into the ancient world

    Discover the “Pompeii of Anatolia”

    Hidden among the forested slopes of Mount Mykale (Samsun Mountain) near the town of Söke in Aydın Province, the ancient city of Priene is one of Turkey’s most remarkable archaeological treasures. Often referred to as the “Pompeii of Anatolia,” Priene offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to walk through the streets of a remarkably well-preserved Hellenistic city and experience one of the finest examples of ancient urban planning.

    Located approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Söke and about 35 kilometers south of Ephesus, Priene combines spectacular mountain scenery with fascinating archaeological remains, making it a rewarding destination for history enthusiasts, photographers, and cultural travelers alike.

    A City with More Than 2,500 Years of History

    Priene was one of the twelve cities of the ancient Ionian League, with its earliest historical references dating to the 7th century BC. During the mid-4th century BC, the city was rebuilt on a new site following an ambitious urban design inspired by the renowned architect and city planner Hippodamus of Miletus, whose innovative planning principles influenced cities throughout the ancient Greek world.

    During the Byzantine period, Priene became an important episcopal center. However, as centuries passed, the Büyük Menderes River gradually deposited vast amounts of alluvium, pushing the coastline farther away from the city. Once a thriving port overlooking the sea, Priene eventually lost its commercial importance and was abandoned completely by the 13th century.

    An Outstanding Example of Ancient Urban Planning

    One of Priene’s greatest distinctions is its exceptional preservation. The city remains one of the world’s finest surviving examples of a carefully planned Hellenistic settlement.

    Built on the steep southern slopes of Mount Mykale, the city’s elevated position provided both natural defenses and magnificent views across the fertile Büyük Menderes Valley.

    Priene follows the famous Hippodamian grid plan, in which straight streets intersect at right angles to form a series of rectangular city blocks known as insulae. The main avenues run east to west, while secondary streets extend north to south.

    This innovative layout was designed with both practicality and comfort in mind. Homes received ample winter sunlight while benefiting from cooling breezes during the hot Mediterranean summers. The carefully organized street network also allowed efficient movement throughout the city and demonstrated an advanced understanding of urban design centuries ahead of its time.

    Because of its outstanding preservation, Priene continues to serve as one of the most important archaeological examples for studying ancient city planning and architecture.

    The Magnificent Theatre of Priene

    Among the city’s most impressive monuments is the Theatre of Priene, one of the finest surviving examples of a Greek-style theatre.

    Constructed around 350 BC, the horseshoe-shaped theatre was built directly into the hillside and could accommodate approximately 5,000 spectators. From its stone seating, audiences enjoyed dramatic performances while overlooking the breathtaking landscape of the Menderes Valley.

    The theatre was renovated several times during antiquity and still preserves many original architectural details, including the stage building, orchestra, and seating rows.

    The Temple of Athena

    Standing proudly above the valley, the Temple of Athena Polias is Priene’s most iconic monument.

    Designed by the celebrated architect Pytheos, who also co-designed the legendary Mausoleum at Halicarnassus—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—the temple became one of the masterpieces of Ionic architecture.

    Following its completion, Pytheos wrote a treatise explaining the architectural principles employed in the temple. These ideas later became fundamental standards for the Ionic architectural order and influenced classical architecture throughout the ancient Mediterranean.

    Although only a few columns remain standing today, the temple’s commanding location offers spectacular panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

    Exploring the Ancient City

    Walking through Priene is like stepping back into everyday life during the Hellenistic period. Unlike many archaeological sites where only isolated monuments survive, Priene preserves the layout of an entire city.

    Among its most important structures are:

    • The Temple of Athena
    • The Temple of Demeter
    • The Temple of Zeus
    • The Agora (marketplace)
    • The Bouleuterion (Council House)
    • The Upper and Lower Gymnasia
    • The Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods
    • The Byzantine Church
    • Residential houses
    • The Necropolis
    • The area traditionally associated with Alexander the Great

    The remarkably preserved residential quarters provide invaluable insight into domestic life during the Late Classical and Hellenistic periods. These houses, complete with courtyards, living spaces, and drainage systems, are among the best-preserved examples of ancient Greek housing anywhere in the Mediterranean.

    The Bouleuterion: The Heart of Civic Life

    One of Priene’s most fascinating public buildings is the Bouleuterion, the city’s council chamber.

    This elegant civic building served as the meeting place for the city’s governing council, where local officials gathered to discuss laws, finances, and public affairs.

    The hall accommodated approximately 640 council members and was originally covered by a timber roof. Visitors entered through two main doorways before taking their seats in the semi-circular stone tiers that still survive today.

    The Bouleuterion offers an excellent glimpse into the democratic traditions of the ancient Greek city-state and remains one of the best-preserved council buildings in Anatolia.

    Visiting Priene Today

    Priene is a peaceful archaeological site surrounded by pine forests and dramatic mountain scenery, making it an enjoyable alternative to some of Turkey’s busier ancient cities. Visitors can explore well-preserved streets, temples, public buildings, and residential districts while enjoying panoramic views across the Büyük Menderes Valley.

    The site is often combined with visits to the nearby ancient cities of Miletus and Didyma, creating one of the most rewarding archaeological day trips in western Turkey.

    Comfortable walking shoes, drinking water, sunscreen, and a camera are highly recommended, as many of the paths are steep and exposed to the sun.

    Why Visit Priene?

    Priene is far more than an ancient ruin – it is a remarkably intact blueprint of a classical Greek city. Its sophisticated urban planning, monumental architecture, and tranquil mountain setting provide an unforgettable journey into the ancient world.

    Whether you are passionate about archaeology, architecture, or history, Priene stands as one of Turkey’s most rewarding cultural destinations and one of the finest surviving examples of Hellenistic city planning anywhere in the world.

  • National Festivals, Official Holidays in Turkey

    Turkey celebrates a combination of national holidays that commemorate key moments in the country’s history and religious festivals observed according to the Islamic lunar calendar. During these holidays, government offices, banks, schools, and many businesses may close or operate with reduced hours, while public transportation and popular tourist destinations can become busier than usual.

    Religious Holidays

    Ramadan Feast (Ramazan Bayramı / Eid al-Fitr)

    Ramadan Feast, known in Turkish as Ramazan Bayramı, marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. Traditionally lasting three days, it is one of Turkey’s most important religious celebrations.

    Families gather to share festive meals, children receive sweets and small gifts, and visits to relatives, friends, and neighbors are customary. Because of the abundance of traditional desserts served during the holiday, it is sometimes informally referred to as the “Sugar Feast.”

    Feast of Sacrifice (Kurban Bayramı / Eid al-Adha)

    Kurban Bayramı, or the Feast of Sacrifice, is another major Islamic holiday and usually lasts four days. The festival commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of faith.

    Families who are able traditionally sacrifice livestock, and the meat is shared among relatives, neighbors, and those in need, reflecting the holiday’s emphasis on charity, generosity, and community.

    Please note: The dates of both Ramadan Feast and the Feast of Sacrifice are determined by the Islamic lunar calendar. As a result, they occur approximately 10–11 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar.

    National Holidays

    23 April – National Sovereignty and Children’s Day

    This unique national holiday commemorates the opening of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey in 1920 during the Turkish War of Independence.

    Dedicated to children by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the day is celebrated with school performances, parades, cultural events, and international children’s festivals throughout the country.

    19 May – Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day

    Observed on 19 May, this holiday marks Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s arrival in Samsun in 1919, an event regarded as the beginning of the Turkish War of Independence.

    Sports competitions, youth festivals, concerts, and official ceremonies are held nationwide to celebrate the country’s young people and Atatürk’s legacy.

    30 August – Victory Day (Zafer Bayramı)

    Victory Day commemorates the decisive Turkish victory in the Battle of Dumlupınar in 1922, which played a crucial role in securing Turkey’s independence.

    Military parades, official ceremonies, concerts, and public celebrations take place across the country, particularly in Ankara and Istanbul.

    29 October – Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı)

    Republic Day is Turkey’s most significant national holiday, celebrating the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey on 29 October 1923.

    Festivities include patriotic ceremonies, concerts, cultural performances, fireworks displays, and spectacular evening celebrations in cities and towns throughout the country. Buildings, streets, and homes are often decorated with Turkish flags and portraits of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

    Travel Tips During Public Holidays

    Traveling during Turkey’s major holidays offers visitors the opportunity to experience vibrant local traditions and celebrations. However, these periods are also among the busiest travel seasons.

    During religious festivals and national holidays, hotels, domestic flights, long-distance buses, and popular tourist attractions can become crowded. Booking transportation and accommodation well in advance is highly recommended, especially during Ramadan Feast, the Feast of Sacrifice, and the Republic Day holiday period.

    Despite the increased crowds, these celebrations provide visitors with a unique opportunity to experience Turkish hospitality, cultural traditions, and national pride firsthand.

  • Places to visit in Zeytinburnu, Istanbul

    1. Byzantine Walls
    2. Erikli Baba Shrine
    3. Yenikapı Mevlevihane (a Sufi lodge)
    4. Kazlıçeşme
    5. Merkezefendi Mosque Shrine and Cell
    6. Obelisk (Dikilitaş)
    7. Derya-i Ali Baba Shrine
    8. Seyit Nizam Mosque and Shrine
    9. Municipal Service Building

  • North Cyprus a Hidden Gem Destination in the Mediterranean

    Northern Cyprus is one of the Mediterranean’s best-kept secrets. Blessed with crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountain landscapes, ancient castles, charming villages, and centuries of fascinating history, it offers travelers an authentic escape from the crowds found in many of the region’s better-known destinations.

    From the picturesque harbor of Girne to the unspoiled beaches of the Karpas Peninsula, every corner of Northern Cyprus reveals a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and warm hospitality.

    Sunset at Girne Harbour

    As evening descends over Girne (Kyrenia), the harbor transforms into one of the island’s most enchanting scenes. Fishing boats and elegant yachts gently sway on the calm Mediterranean waters while cafés and restaurants light their terraces with candles that shimmer across the sea.

    Dominating the waterfront is the magnificent Girne Castle, whose imposing stone walls glow warmly beneath the setting sun. Watching daylight slowly fade over the harbor is one of those unforgettable travel moments that captures the peaceful spirit of Northern Cyprus.

    A Land of Fragrance and Tranquility

    Northern Cyprus delights not only through its landscapes but also through its atmosphere.

    The fragrance of blooming gardens drifts through the narrow streets of Girne, where traditional houses with blue shutters overlook quiet lanes. Orange groves perfume the countryside around Güzelyurt, while cool mountain breezes carry the scent of pine forests across the Beşparmak Mountains.

    Along the rugged coastline of the Karpas Peninsula, the salty Mediterranean air mingles with the aromas of wild herbs and flowers, creating an unforgettable sensory experience that lingers long after your journey ends.

    Exploring the Island by Road

    One of the best ways to discover Northern Cyprus is by renting a car or a four-wheel-drive vehicle and exploring at your own pace. The island’s compact size makes it easy to combine coastal resorts, mountain villages, archaeological sites, and scenic countryside in a single itinerary.

    Each region has its own distinctive character, rewarding travelers with hidden beaches, panoramic viewpoints, and traditional villages that have changed little over generations.

    Girne – The Jewel of the North Coast

    Girne is Northern Cyprus’s most popular holiday destination. Its attractive marina, luxury hotels, lively cafés, casinos, and beautiful beaches attract visitors throughout the year.

    The heart of the town is its historic harbor, lined with waterfront restaurants where fresh seafood and traditional Cypriot cuisine can be enjoyed while overlooking colorful fishing boats.

    Towering above the harbor is the impressive Girne Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in the eastern Mediterranean. Within its walls are fascinating museums, archaeological exhibits, and panoramic views over the harbor and surrounding coastline.

    The Castles of the Beşparmak Mountains

    The Beşparmak (Kyrenia) Mountains are crowned by three spectacular medieval castles that once protected the island from invading armies.

    Saint Hilarion Castle, perched dramatically on a mountain peak, is widely believed to have inspired fairy-tale castles with its towers, terraces, and breathtaking views.

    Buffavento Castle, the highest fortress on the island, rewards adventurous hikers with magnificent panoramas stretching across the Mediterranean.

    Further east stands Kantara Castle, strategically positioned to guard the narrow Karpas Peninsula and offering sweeping views of both the northern and southern coastlines.

    Together, these castles provide some of the finest hiking and photography opportunities in Northern Cyprus.

    Charming Traditional Villages

    Away from the coast, visitors discover peaceful villages where life moves at a slower pace.

    Karmi is renowned for its beautifully restored whitewashed houses, colorful bougainvillea, stone lanes, and spectacular mountain setting. The village has become home to an international community while preserving its traditional Cypriot charm.

    Near Güzelyurt lies Koruçam, one of the island’s historic Maronite villages. Here, visitors encounter a rich cultural heritage reflected in traditional homes, churches, and local customs that have survived for centuries.

    Taste the Flavors of Northern Cyprus

    The island’s cuisine is another highlight of any visit.

    Traditional restaurants serve generous meze platters followed by locally produced hellim (halloumi) cheese, grilled meats, village salads, homemade bread, olives, tahini, pickled wild herbs, and slow-roasted lamb prepared using age-old techniques.

    Fresh seafood is plentiful along the coast, while locally produced wines and traditional desserts complete an authentic Cypriot dining experience.

    Hospitality is central to local culture, and visitors are often welcomed as honored guests rather than tourists.

    Lefkoşa – A Capital Divided by History

    Lefkoşa (Nicosia) is the world’s last divided capital, where history unfolds along ancient streets lined with Ottoman mansions, Gothic churches, Venetian fortifications, and bustling markets.

    Walking through districts such as Arabahmet and Selimiye reveals beautifully restored buildings featuring wooden balconies, stone façades, and traditional courtyards.

    The magnificent Selimiye Mosque, originally built as the Gothic Cathedral of Saint Sophia during the 13th and 14th centuries, remains one of the city’s architectural masterpieces and symbolizes the island’s rich multicultural heritage.

    Gazimağusa – A Living Museum

    The historic city of Gazimağusa (Famagusta) is one of Northern Cyprus’s greatest cultural treasures.

    Its impressive Venetian walls surround a remarkable collection of medieval churches, mosques, palaces, and historic streets. The stunning Lala Mustafa Paşa Mosque, originally constructed as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, stands as one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the eastern Mediterranean.

    Nearby are the remarkable ruins of ancient Salamis, once one of the island’s most prosperous classical cities. Visitors can also explore the Monastery of Saint Barnabas and the legendary Othello Castle, traditionally associated with William Shakespeare’s famous tragedy.

    The Untouched Karpas Peninsula

    The journey east culminates on the spectacular Karpas Peninsula, one of the Mediterranean’s last truly unspoiled coastal regions.

    Golden sandy beaches stretch for kilometers, interrupted only by rocky coves and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Traditional villages, grazing wild donkeys, rolling wheat fields, and secluded monasteries create an atmosphere far removed from modern mass tourism.

    At the peninsula’s eastern tip, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views where land meets sea in complete tranquility—a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable journey across Northern Cyprus.

    A Destination Unlike Any Other

    Northern Cyprus is much more than a beach destination. It is a land where medieval castles overlook sparkling seas, ancient civilizations have left remarkable monuments, and timeless villages preserve traditions that have endured for centuries.

    Whether exploring mountain fortresses, wandering through historic towns, relaxing on secluded beaches, or enjoying the island’s renowned hospitality and cuisine, visitors quickly discover why Northern Cyprus remains one of the Mediterranean’s most rewarding hidden destinations.

  • Paragliding in İnönü, Eskişehir: Discover Türkiye’s Historic Aviation Center

    Located approximately 15 kilometers west of Eskişehir, the district of İnönü is one of Türkiye’s important destinations for aviation sports, especially paragliding and flight training. With its favorable wind conditions, open landscapes, and aviation heritage, İnönü offers an exciting experience for both beginner pilots and experienced paragliders.

    The region is home to facilities operated by the Turkish Aeronautical Association (Türk Hava Kurumu – THK), which has played a major role in developing aviation sports in Türkiye for decades.

    Ideal Conditions for Paragliding

    İnönü’s natural landscape provides excellent conditions for paragliding, particularly during the summer months. The area’s north-facing slopes benefit from regular northern winds, creating suitable air currents for safe and enjoyable flights.

    The surrounding hills and wide open valleys provide:

    • Suitable take-off areas
    • Stable wind conditions
    • Long-distance flight opportunities
    • Beautiful views over the Eskişehir countryside
    • A safe environment for training and recreational flights

    These characteristics have made İnönü one of the country’s recognized locations for aviation enthusiasts.

    Turkish Aeronautical Association Facilities

    The Turkish Aeronautical Association operates aviation facilities in İnönü, offering training and activities in various air sports, including:

    • Paragliding
    • Gliding
    • Model aircraft
    • Skydiving
    • Aviation courses

    The center attracts students, aviation clubs, and adventure travelers from across Türkiye and abroad.

    Professional instructors provide training programs designed for different experience levels, from beginners taking their first flight to advanced pilots improving their skills.

    Paragliding Experience in İnönü

    A typical paragliding experience begins with safety training, equipment preparation, and instructions from certified pilots. Tandem flights are available for visitors who want to experience paragliding without previous experience.

    During the flight, participants can enjoy:

    • Panoramic views of Eskişehir’s countryside
    • The peaceful sensation of flying above the landscape
    • Unique aerial photography opportunities
    • An unforgettable adventure away from crowded tourist areas

    The best flying conditions are generally found during the warmer months when weather patterns are more stable.

    Other Attractions Near İnönü

    Visitors traveling to İnönü can combine their paragliding adventure with other attractions in and around Eskişehir.

    Nearby highlights include:

    • Eskişehir city center – famous for its canals, museums, parks, and cultural attractions
    • Odunpazarı Historic District – known for traditional Ottoman houses and museums
    • Sazova Science, Culture and Art Park – a popular destination for families
    • Porsuk River – offering boat rides and scenic walks
    • Frig Valley – featuring ancient rock formations, caves, and historical remains

    Best Time for Paragliding

    The most suitable period for paragliding in İnönü is generally:

    • Spring: Pleasant temperatures and improving weather conditions
    • Summer: The most popular season due to favorable winds
    • Early autumn: Comfortable flying conditions before colder weather arrives

    Flights depend on weather conditions, especially wind speed, direction, and visibility.

    Travel Tips

    Before planning a paragliding experience in İnönü:

    • Check weather conditions in advance.
    • Fly only with licensed and experienced instructors.
    • Wear comfortable sports clothing and closed shoes.
    • Bring sunglasses and sunscreen.
    • Reserve training courses or tandem flights ahead of time during busy seasons.

    An Adventure Destination Beyond the Coast

    While Türkiye is famous for coastal paragliding destinations such as Fethiye and Ölüdeniz, İnönü offers a different experience combining aviation history, natural landscapes, and professional training facilities.

    For adventure travelers seeking an authentic inland experience, paragliding in İnönü, Eskişehir provides the perfect opportunity to discover Türkiye from the sky while exploring one of the country’s most important aviation centers.