G Turkiye

Category: Tourism

  • Turkiye’s underground cities are among the greatest engineering achievements of the ancient world

    Turkiye’s underground cities are among the greatest engineering achievements of the ancient world

    Turkey is home to some of the most extraordinary underground cities ever created by human civilization. Hidden beneath the volcanic landscapes of Central Anatolia, particularly in the region of Cappadocia, these vast subterranean complexes were carved into soft volcanic rock and served as refuges, settlements, religious centers, storage facilities, and defensive strongholds for thousands of years.

    Today, more than 200 underground settlements and hundreds of cave complexes have been identified across Cappadocia, making Turkey the world’s most important region for underground urban archaeology. Some of these cities descend more than 85 meters below the surface and were capable of sheltering entire communities, complete with livestock, food supplies, churches, schools, wineries, wells, and sophisticated ventilation systems.

    Why Were Underground Cities Built?

    The underground cities of Turkey were primarily developed as safe refuges during periods of invasion, warfare, religious persecution, and political instability.

    Several factors made Cappadocia ideal for underground construction:

    • Soft volcanic tuff rock could be easily carved.
    • The rock remained structurally stable after excavation.
    • The region experienced frequent invasions throughout history.
    • Underground environments maintained stable temperatures year-round.
    • Hidden entrances offered protection from enemies.

    Many cities were expanded during the Byzantine period, when Christian communities sought refuge from Arab raids and other military threats. Entire populations could disappear underground for weeks or even months.

    The Geological Secret of Cappadocia

    Millions of years ago, volcanic eruptions from ancient volcanoes such as Mount Erciyes and Mount Hasan covered Central Anatolia with thick layers of volcanic ash.

    Over time, this ash solidified into tuff, a soft yet durable rock that could be excavated with simple tools. This unique geology allowed generations of inhabitants to carve homes, monasteries, churches, storage rooms, and eventually entire underground cities beneath the surface.

    Derinkuyu Underground City: The Giant Beneath the Earth

    The most famous and largest underground city in Turkey is Derinkuyu Underground City.

    Key Facts

    • Maximum depth: approximately 85 meters
    • Up to 18 levels
    • Capacity: around 20,000 people
    • Rediscovered in 1963
    • Largest excavated underground city in Turkey
    • Open to visitors today

    Discovery

    In 1963, a local resident renovating his basement discovered a hidden chamber behind a wall. Further exploration revealed an immense underground city extending deep beneath the town. What began as a simple home renovation became one of Turkey’s most significant archaeological discoveries.

    What Exists Inside?

    Visitors can explore:

    • Residential quarters
    • Kitchens
    • Storage rooms
    • Wineries
    • Churches
    • Schools
    • Livestock stables
    • Wells
    • Ventilation shafts
    • Defensive corridors

    Perhaps the most impressive features are the giant circular stone doors that could seal passages from within, making the city extremely difficult to penetrate during attacks.

    Engineering Marvel

    Derinkuyu contains dozens of ventilation shafts and wells that supplied fresh air and water to residents deep underground. This infrastructure allowed thousands of people to survive below ground for extended periods.

    Kaymaklı Underground City: The Underground Labyrinth

    The second most famous underground settlement is Kaymaklı Underground City.

    Although not as deep as Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı is wider and contains a remarkable network of tunnels and chambers.

    Highlights

    • Eight levels in total
    • Four levels open to visitors
    • Extensive residential quarters
    • Churches and chapels
    • Wine production facilities
    • Food storage areas
    • Defensive tunnels

    Unlike Derinkuyu’s vertical design, Kaymaklı spreads horizontally through a maze-like network of tunnels, creating the impression of an underground village rather than a deep subterranean fortress.

    Historical evidence suggests that both cities may have functioned as part of a larger defensive network across Cappadocia.

    Other Underground Cities Worth Visiting

    Özkonak Underground City

    Known for its advanced defense systems, including communication holes and special openings used to monitor approaching enemies.

    Mazi Underground City

    A less-visited underground settlement featuring churches, living quarters, and ancient defensive passages. It offers a quieter experience than Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı.

    Tatlarin Underground City

    Famous for its large communal halls and extensive residential areas.

    Saratlı Underground City

    One of the best-preserved underground settlements outside the main Cappadocia tourist circuit.

    Gaziemir Underground City

    Known as a unique underground caravanserai where traders and travelers could safely shelter along ancient trade routes.

    Daily Life Underground

    Life beneath the earth was surprisingly organized.

    Residents maintained:

    • Family living spaces
    • Kitchens and bakeries
    • Livestock areas
    • Food storage rooms
    • Religious spaces
    • Schools
    • Water systems
    • Ventilation networks

    Archaeological evidence indicates that these cities were not merely emergency shelters. Some sections appear to have been occupied for extended periods and were designed to support complete communities.

    Religion and Underground Christianity

    The underground cities played an important role in early Christian history.

    Many chambers served as:

    • Churches
    • Chapels
    • Monasteries
    • Religious schools

    Wall carvings, crosses, and worship spaces found throughout the cities demonstrate their significance as centers of Christian life during periods of persecution and conflict.

    Mysteries and Unanswered Questions

    Despite decades of research, several mysteries remain:

    Who Built the First Tunnels?

    Some scholars attribute the earliest excavations to ancient peoples such as the Phrygians, while others suggest earlier origins. Most experts agree that successive civilizations expanded the cities over centuries.

    How Extensive Is the Network?

    Archaeologists continue discovering new underground complexes throughout Central Anatolia. Some researchers believe many more tunnels and chambers remain hidden beneath modern towns.

    Were Cities Connected?

    There are longstanding reports of underground passages linking some settlements, including a possible route between Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı. While sections have been identified, the full extent of these connections remains uncertain.

    Visiting Turkey’s Underground Cities

    The best base for exploring these wonders is the region of Cappadocia.

    Best Time to Visit

    • April to June
    • September to November

    These seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

    Must-See Underground Cities

    1. Derinkuyu Underground City
    2. Kaymaklı Underground City
    3. Özkonak Underground City
    4. Tatlarin Underground City
    5. Saratlı Underground City

    Visitor Tips

    • Wear comfortable walking shoes.
    • Expect narrow passages and steep stairways.
    • Not ideal for severe claustrophobia.
    • Allow at least 1–2 hours per site.
    • Combine visits with Cappadocia’s rock churches, valleys, and hot-air balloon experiences.

    Turkey’s underground cities are among the greatest engineering achievements of the ancient world. Carved into volcanic rock over centuries, these hidden settlements reveal how entire communities adapted to conflict, climate, and uncertainty. From the immense depths of Derinkuyu to the labyrinthine passages of Kaymaklı, they offer a fascinating glimpse into a world where survival depended on disappearing beneath the earth itself.

    Today, the underground cities of Cappadocia remain one of Turkey’s most remarkable cultural treasures—an unforgettable journey into a hidden civilization that flourished beneath the surface.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Do I Need a Visa to Visit Turkiye?

    Turkey Visa Requirements for International Travelers

    Before traveling to Turkey, every visitor must carry a valid passport or other accepted travel document that meets Turkey’s entry requirements. Passport validity requirements vary depending on nationality, but in general, travelers should ensure that their passport remains valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival.

    Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the length of your stay. Turkey maintains different visa agreements with countries around the world, meaning entry requirements are not the same for every traveler.

    Visa-Free Travel

    Citizens of many countries can enter Turkey without obtaining a visa for short stays related to tourism or business. The permitted length of stay varies by nationality, so travelers should always verify the latest requirements before departure.

    Visa-free visitors must still comply with Turkey’s immigration regulations, including passport validity requirements and any limits on the duration of their stay.

    Turkey’s Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

    Turkey operates an efficient Electronic Visa (e-Visa) system that allows eligible travelers to apply online before their trip. The e-Visa is available for tourism and business travel and can usually be obtained within minutes through the official government website.

    The application process typically requires:

    • A valid passport.
    • Personal and travel information.
    • Payment of the applicable visa fee.
    • An email address to receive the approved e-Visa.

    Eligibility, visa validity, and permitted length of stay vary according to the applicant’s nationality. Some nationalities may also need to meet additional requirements or provide supporting documents.

    Embassy or Consulate Visas

    Travelers who are not eligible for visa-free entry or an e-Visa must apply for a visa through a Turkish embassy or consulate before traveling.

    This generally applies to visitors traveling for purposes such as:

    • Employment
    • Study
    • Research
    • Long-term residence
    • Family reunification
    • Other non-tourism activities

    Visa applications submitted through Turkish diplomatic missions may require supporting documents, interviews, and additional processing time. Applicants are therefore advised to apply well in advance of their planned departure.

    Transit Through Turkey

    Passengers transiting through Turkey without passing through immigration or leaving the international transit area generally do not require a Turkish visa. However, travelers who intend to leave the airport during a layover may need a visa, depending on their nationality and the applicable entry regulations.

    Important Travel Advice

    Visa regulations can change as Turkey updates its immigration policies and bilateral agreements with other countries. Travelers should always confirm the latest entry requirements before booking flights or departing for Turkey.

    The easiest way to determine whether you need a visa is by checking the official Turkish government visa portal or contacting the nearest Turkish embassy or consulate.

    Official Resources

    For the latest visa information and eligibility requirements, visit:

    Checking these official sources before traveling will help ensure that you have the correct documentation and can enjoy a smooth arrival in Turkey.