Discover Turkey's Rich Cultural Heritage

Turkey, a country bridging Europe and Asia, offers a vibrant cultural tapestry shaped by centuries of diverse civilizations. From ancient ruins like the Hagia Sophia and Ephesus to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey is a treasure trove of history. Its literature, from the mystical poetry of Yunus Emre to Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk, reflects the country's deep cultural roots. Turkish cuisine, known for its flavorsome kebabs, sweet baklava, and refreshing mezes, tells the story of its rich culinary history. With stunning architecture, from Ottoman mosques to Seljuk masterpieces, and a living tradition of folk music, dance, and craftsmanship, Turkey is a place where past and present coexist in harmony.

Come, explore the beauty of Turkey’s cultural heritage!

Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi)

Located on a small islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus, the Maiden’s Tower is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. With a history dating back over 2,000 years, it has served various purposes—from lighthouse to watchtower, and even a quarantine station. Surrounded by legends, including the famous tale of a princess kept safe from a prophecy, the tower offers breathtaking views of the Istanbul skyline. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city’s timeless charm and mystery.

Pamukkale Travertines (Pamukkale Travertenleri)

Pamukkale, meaning "Cotton Castle" in Turkish, is a natural wonder located in southwestern Turkey. Famous for its dazzling white terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters, Pamukkale has been a spa destination since ancient times. The site also includes the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its surreal landscape and healing waters, Pamukkale is a must-visit for nature and history lovers alike.

sumela monastery (Sümela manastırı)

Sümela Monastery is a very old Greek Orthodox monastery located in the mountains of Trabzon, in the Black Sea region of Turkey. It was built in the 4th century, during the time of the Roman Empire. The monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

It is built into a steep cliff, about 1,200 meters above sea level, and surrounded by forests and a river. Sümela is famous for its amazing mountain view, colorful wall paintings (frescoes), and historic architecture.

For many centuries, it was an important religious place for Christians. In 1923, it was closed after the population exchange between Turkey and Greece. Today, it is a museum and a popular place for tourists and visitors from around the world.

Patara Ancient City (Patara Antik Kenti)

Patara Ancient City is an important ancient city located near GeKaova, in the Antalya Province of Turkey. It was one of the major cities of the Lycian League, and it dates back to around the 8th century BC.

Patara was known as a port city and played a key role in trade and politics in the region. It was also famous for having one of the oldest and largest parliaments in the ancient world. The city includes ruins such as a theater, city walls, baths, temples, and a well-preserved Roman road.

Patara is also known as the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, who later became known as Santa Claus.

Today, Patara is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins and also enjoy Patara Beach, one of the longest sandy beaches in Turkey.

Divriği Ulu Cami

The Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital is a unique architectural masterpiece located in Divriği, Sivas, Turkey. It was built in 1228–1229 by the Mengücekid dynasty. The complex includes a mosque and a hospital (darüşşifa), both constructed by local craftsmen.

The mosque is famous for its richly decorated stone carvings and intricate geometric patterns on the portals. Its artistic and architectural style is a blend of Islamic and Anatolian traditions.

In 1985, the Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its outstanding universal value and exceptional craftsmanship.

Nemrut mountain

Mount Nemrut is a historical mountain located in southeastern Turkey, near the city of Adıyaman. It is famous for the giant statues and the royal tomb built by King Antiochus I of the Commagene Kingdom in the 1st century BC.

The summit of the mountain is 2,134 meters high and features huge stone heads of ancient gods, eagles, and lions. These statues surround a large burial mound believed to be the king’s tomb.

Mount Nemrut was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. It is one of Turkey’s most important archaeological sites and a popular tourist destination, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a unique historical region in central Turkey, known for its unusual rock formations, fairy chimneys, and ancient cave dwellings. It was formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago.

People have lived in Cappadocia for thousands of years, carving homes, churches, and even entire underground cities into the soft rocks. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, especially famous for hot air balloon rides over the stunning landscape.

Turkish Food Culture

Adana kebap

Adana Kebap is a spicy Turkish kebab

made from minced lamb or beef,

mixed with chili and spices, then grilled on skewers.

It is named after the city of Adana in southern Turkey.

İskender Kebab

is a famous Turkish dish made with thinly sliced döner meat served over pieces of pita bread, topped with tomato sauce, melted butter, and yogurt. It originates from Bursa, Turkey.

Lahmacun

Lahmacun is a popular Turkish dish consisting of a thin, crispy flatbread topped with a mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and spices. It is often served with fresh herbs and lemon for added flavor.

DÖNER

Et döner (beef or lamb) and tavuk döner (chicken) are popular Turkish street foods made from marinated meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in flatbread with vegetables and sauces.

Çiğ köfte

Çiğ köfte is a Turkish dish made from bulgur, spices, and sometimes raw minced meat, traditionally from southeastern Turkey. It's often served as a cold appetizer, wrapped in lettuce.

Yaprak Sarma

Yaprak sarması is a Turkish dish made by stuffing grape leaves with rice, onions, herbs, and spices, sometimes with minced meat. The rolls are simmered in olive oil or broth and served with yogurt.

Dolma

Dolma is a Turkish dish where vegetables like peppers, eggplants, or zucchini are stuffed with rice, herbs, spices, and sometimes minced meat. The stuffed vegetables are cooked in broth or olive oil and typically served with yogurt.

Turkish Artist Culture

Aşık Veysel (1894–1973) was a renowned Turkish folk poet, singer, and saz player. He became blind as a child due to illness but dedicated his life to music and poetry. Veysel’s works often expressed themes of love, sorrow, nature, and unity. He wrote in plain language, making his messages heartfelt and accessible to all.His most famous song, "Uzun İnce Bir Yoldayım", speaks about the journey of life. Aşık Veysel is seen as a symbol of Anatolian wisdom and the Turkish folk tradition.Even decades after his death, his songs and poems continue to inspire people.

Neşet Ertaş (1938–2012) was a legendary Turkish folk musician,

singer, and poet.He was born in Kırşehir and learned to play the bağlama from his father. Known as the “Voice of the Steppe,” his music reflected the emotions of rural Anatolia.He sang about love, longing, poverty, and the human condition with deep sincerity. His humble style and heartfelt lyrics made him beloved by people across generations. Neşet Ertaş famously said, "We are the children of sorrow, not of wealth."He is considered one of the most important figures in Turkish folk and bozlak music.

Sait Faik Abasıyanık was a famous Turkish writer known for his short stories. He lived in the 20th century and wrote about ordinary people, daily life, and Istanbul. His style was simple, emotional, and realistic. He is considered one of the pioneers of modern Turkish literature.

Ömer Seyfettin was a famous Turkish writer and one of the founders of modern Turkish short stories. He used simple and clear language, making literature more accessible to ordinary people. His stories often focused on nationalism, daily life, and Turkish culture. He also supported the use of the Turkish language instead of Ottoman Turkish in literature. His works are still widely read in Turkey today.

Mehmet Akif Ersoy was a great Turkish poet, writer, and thinker who supported the Turkish War of Independence with his poems. He was born in Istanbul in 1873 and died in 1936. He is best known as the author of the Turkish National Anthem. His most important work, Safahat, is a seven-part poetry book that focuses on social problems, moral values, and national feelings. He also worked as a veterinarian, teacher, and member of parliament. He left a strong legacy in Turkish literature and history.

Nazım Hikmet is one of Turkey’s most important poets. He was born in 1902 and died in 1963. His poems focus on themes like freedom, love, peace, and human rights. He is a pioneer of modern Turkish poetry and is known worldwide. Due to his political views, he spent many years in prison. He also wrote plays and novels.