Imagine walking on the roads once travelled by the Roman emperors and standing in the mosques where prayer calls echoed for centuries. This is Turkey, where history comes to life and is found all around you. Whether you pass through ancient ruins or large palaces, every stone tells a tale, and every step takes you closer to the past. Hence, this place is a living and breathing history book whose historical sites will make your Turkey holidays inspiring and your camera roll full. In this post, we will uncover Turkey’s must-visit places that promise an unforgettable journey through time. Join us on this voyage and get to know about its rich past for a comprehensive experience.
Turkey’s 8 Iconic Historical Destinations
In this section, we will explore some of the most iconic sites in Turkey that every traveller must visit during their holidays.
1. Hagia Sophia
Let us begin our history-rich adventure with one of the most beautiful landmarks of Turkey, which is the Hagia Sophia. It was built in 537 AD, and since then, it has worn many hats – a Byzantine church, an Ottoman mosque, and now a blend of both. Its architectural grandeur makes it feel like a living museum. The mosque’s interior is decorated with golden mosaics and a fusion of Christian and Islamic designs. As you step inside, you will feel like you have entered another era of elegance and charm. The Hagia Sophia is a popular tourist site and remains crowded throughout the year. In order to beat the crowds and catch the morning light that strikes through the mosque’s windows, you need to arrive early here.
2. Topkapi Palace
Among the must-visit sites in Turkey, the Topkapi Palace stands as an emblem of stunning architecture and rich history. It is a reflection of the luxurious world of the Ottoman Empire. This palace had been the beating heart of power and politics for centuries. As you step inside, your eyes will catch the glance of lavish halls, jewel-studded rooms, and quiet courtyards, all embedded into this masterpiece. But the quest does not end here; you must peer into the harem, the private quarters of the Sultan and his family. Here you will unfold the royal life behind the closed doors. The key highlight of this palace is the views of the Bosphorus from its terraces. These views are simply unforgettable and will make your Turkey holidays lively.
3. Cappadocia
Cappadocia is home to underground cities carved out of rocks. It is famous for its surreal landscapes and hot air balloon rides. Stepping here seems like you have come to a fantasy world, but with ancient roots. One of its cities, Derinkuyu, lies beneath the earth and is a sight to behold. It has churches, kitchens, and tunnels, giving it a complete modern city look. In addition to this, tourists can head to explore Göreme Open Air Museum. It is home to about 30 ancient churches, each of which is formed with roughly cut rocks and colourful frescoes. Therefore, if you want to enjoy Cappadocia’s beauty at its fullest, then you must visit it during sunrise. You will get to enjoy stunning views when the morning rays turn the rocks crimson.
4. Troy
Immortalised in Homer’s epic “The Iliad”, the ancient city of Troy rises from the mists of legends and myths. Till today, it is standing tall near the modern town of Hisarlik. The city echoes tales of the glory of legendary heroes and gods. If you haven’t heard the myth, do it and walk the ruins then. Troy is more than just a story. It exists in the real world and is covered under 4,000 years of history blocks. As you walk through this city, you will see that its walls, gates, and stony paths reveal the secrets of a lost world. This city lets you relive those stories. An adventurer, Heinrich Schliemann, found the traces of this city in the 1800s. He got the clues of the city from The Iliad, a masterpiece in English literature.
5. Mount Nemrut
Do you see yourself as an explorer? Then Mount Nemrut awaits your quest. It is located in south-eastern Turkey and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a true marvel of adventure and natural beauty. Words cannot describe its beauty in a few chunks. You will need to visit it to truly appreciate its charm. It is a place shrouded in mystery and sure to transport you back in time. As you go to the top, you will see giant statues gazing out of the mountains. They look mysterious, silent, and awe-inspiring to the travellers. If you want to visit this iconic site, you must do that at sunrise or sunset. During these times, statues glow in the golden light. The best time to visit Mount Nemrut is from May to October because the weather in Turkey becomes clear and the roads open for tourists.
6. Aspendos Theatre
Located in Antalya, history echoes through the Aspendos Theatre. As per the records, this Roman theatre is almost 2,000 years old and still holds various cultural events and performances. The Aspendos Theatre is called a gem of the Roman Empire. It has towering walls, an impressive facade, and an awe-inspiring seating arrangement. It is made up of stones and can house almost 15,000 people. Just imagine you being there, enjoying a Roman play unfold before your eyes! It enjoys the status of being a well-preserved historical site in Turkey. If you want to explore more nearby historical sites, then head to Perge – another ancient city. The city lies at a short drive from here. Hence, you can easily plan a day trip to this iconic landmark.
7. Sumela Monastery
This 4th-century Greek Orthodox monastery is located in Trabzon. It is considered one of the most stunning places in Turkey. Located between cliffs and lush green mountains, Dunla Mnatsery looks like something that came out of a fantasy novel. As you step inside, your jaw would drop at seeing intricate frescoes, a carved stone facade, and hidden chambers. Inside, you will also spot a chapel which is adorned with vibrant murals and depicts religious scenes. As it is located in the middle of the cliff, the monastery offers stunning views of the surrounding Trabzon landscapes. The location asks for a hike through the forest, so do not forget to bring some comfortable shoes. This is not a place for fashion but for enjoying the vibes in comfy attire. You may find the hike steep, but the reward would be spectacular once you reach the edge. So bring your camera too to seize the memories and show them to your friends later.
8. Ani
The forgotten city of a thousand churches, Ani, is a ghost city frozen in time. It is located on the edge of Turkey near the Armenian border. Ani used to be a medieval capital once, as it was full of churches, mosques, and palaces. Now the city is turned into ruins but still holds the charm and blend of Armenian, Byzantine, and Islamic architecture that make it unique and memorable. Apart from this, the city also offers scenic views of the surroundings. When you stand at the top of its ancient city walls, your eyes will meet a sight like no other. Vast plains, flowing rivers, and distant mountains seemingly blend to create a picture-worthy setting which is sure to leave you spellbound.
Closing Not
Turkey is steeped in culture and history and provides an array of historical sites where the past and present live side by side. Here, once you step, you can walk through Roman streets, climb Byzantine towers, and stand in the Ottoman palaces. Whether you are an adventure lover, a history buff, or a learner of ancient myths, Turkey has it all. Each site tells a unique story, making your Turkey holidays mesmerising. So, if you also want to explore this beautiful country, book Turkey holiday packages from Virikson Holidays and make your journey more fun and hassle-free.