Devoted to Artemis, the goddess of wild nature, the moon and the hunt, this temple was on the list of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Temple of Artemis at Ephesus Archaeological Site is located in Western coast of Turkey. If you happen to visit Turkey, you should definitely take a look at this place.

Artemis, The Goddess of the Moon

Being the daughter of Leto and Zeus, Artemis was twin sister of Apollo. She was renamed as “Diana” by Romans. Artemis is born one day before Apollo and she helps her mother while she gives birth to her latter child. After witnessing the pain her mother endures during the delivery, Artemis decides not to marry in her life and for this reason she is identified with virginity and is recognized the guardian of unmarried young girls.

There is a dualist relationship between Artemis and Apollo, therefore these two are considered as twins in Ancient Greek sources. While Apollo is identified with the sun, Artemis is portrayed as an anthropomorphic form of the moon. Therefore, Artemis was also known as the goddess of the moon.

Artemis was worshipped especially in rural and mountainous areas. There were a lot of temples dedicated to Artemis in different areas of Ancient Greek geography. After the cult of Artemis reached to Anatolia, it was reunited with the cult of the “Mother Goddess” that had already been there for centuries and they started to identify Artemis with many breasts like Cybele.

Greek historian Stefanos Skarmintzos points out the similarity between the cults of Artemis and Cybele. In his article The Cult of Artemis in Ephesus and the Possible Explanation of the Bee Symbol, Skarmintzos claims that the cult of Artemis in Anatolia is an assimilated version of the Hititte Goddess Cult with Greek character.

History of the Temple of Artemis

The history of the Temple of Artemis dates back to 6 centuries BC. According to Plynus, a Byzantine historian, the Temple of Artemis was 115-meters-long and 55-meters-wide. Constructed out of marble down to the ground, this temple stood with 127 columns built in Ionic style.

What we know about the masterpieces inside the temple is based upon Plynus’ stories. According to him, inner side of the temple was filled with statues and paintings made by famous artists of that era such as Polyclitus, Pheidias and Cresilas. Also, the columns that supported the temple were decorated with gold and silver.

The construction of the first Temple of Artemis is attributed to the Ionians living in this region. After the first temple was destroyed by flood, the second, and much more magnificent temple, was built by Croesus, King of Lydia. However, it needed rebuilding after it was burnt down by Herostratus in 356.

The temple was uncovered by J.T Wood, an English engineer who worked in the construction of Izmir-Aydin railway, in 1869. Beginning from the excavations that J.T Wood conducted, the results reveal that there are 4 different construction periods of the temple.

Since the excavations were carried out on behalf of British Museum, some of the artifacts extracted from this place have still been exhibited in British Museum. Also, Ephesus Museum in Vienna displays some of the pieces that was originally extracted in this place.

The Burning of the Temple of Artemis

The burning of the temple of Artemis was the first act of terrorism that we know, so Herostratus is considered as the first terrorist in history. According to popular wisdom, Herostratus was a fame-seeking young man and set the temple of Artemis on fire to be remembered forever.

However, according to different sources, Herostratus was a slave and he set the temple on fire because of his hatred of the people of Ephesus.

The burning of Ephesus has inspired many works of art throughout history. There are references to the burning down of Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the world, in many plays and novels.

Temple of Artemis at Ephesus Facts

One of the most interesting facts about the Temple of Artemis is that those who lived in that period described the temple as the greatest architectural work ever. We can see how sacred the temple was regarded in ancient times from the emotional bond Ephesians established with the temple. However, it is known that not only the locals but also all kings (including Alexander the Great) who wanted to conquer Ephesus valued the Temple of Artemis greatly.

There were various temples in Anatolia and Greece dedicated to Artemis. On the other hand, the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus differed from the others in terms of architecture and characteristic features. Artemis is depicted as having many breasts fittingly to the cult of the Mother Goddess and you can see this statue in this day and time.

Antipater of Sidon (famous ancient Greek poet), compiling the Seven Wonders of the World, compares the Temple of Artemis to Hanging Gardens of Babylon and Egyptian Pyramids and other important magnificent wonders of the world and he concludes that no other wonder is as magnificent as the Temple of Artemis adding that he had seen them all.

The magnificence of the Temple of Artemis left such an important mark on people’s memory that its reputation has survived to the present day. Although the temple was destroyed, it was always remembered how it looked. In this way, this famous structure of Anatolia found its place in Renaissance art.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Temple of Artemis is one of the most important works of art in Ancient Age, nevertheless, there are only ruins remained from it in our time. Still, even remaining ruins are enough to understand the magnificence that this temple had once upon a time.

There are many articles on the Istanbul Clues site about Ephesus, in which Temple of Artemis is located. If you wish, you can also check out the things to do in Ephesus article, where you can review other historical monuments in and around Ephesus.

Although Ephesus is known for its rich Roman heritage, it still carries traces of Ancient Greece. The Ancient City of Ephesus has the best preserved Roman heritage in the Eastern Mediterranean and is among the must-see historical places in Turkey.

Those who want to visit Ephesus are mostly cruise ship passengers coming from Kusadasi Cruise Port. However, with its cultural heritage, Ephesus also attracts visitors from other touristic cities in Turkey such as Istanbul, Izmir and Antalya.

If you are going to visit this region, I suggest you hire a private tour guide in Ephesus. With its history dating back to 1000 BC, Ephesus was one of the most important cultural and commercial centers of the ancient age. You will need an experienced guide to fully understand the history of this well-preserved Greco-Roman heritage.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post Facts about the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus (2024) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

Acropolis is recognized as the first settlement in the city of Pergamon. Located 300 meters above the sea level, Acropolis is home to the structures dating back to Roman Era. You should definitely take a look at this ancient city that protects the gorgeousness of Greco-Roman Era when you visit Western Coast of Turkey.

What is Acropolis?

Acropolis was a kind of settlement in Ancient Greece. The word is originated from acro (topmost, outermost) and polis (city) in Greek. The settlements founded on high grounds and hosting important buildings such as temples, treasure buildings and government agencies were called as Acropolis.

In ancient Greece, almost every city had its own Acropolis. These settlements would never be abandoned in wartime because they hosted treasures, documents and important buildings of the state.

The History of Bergama (Pergamon)

The structures dating back to Roman Empire stand out in Bergama Acropolis Archeological Site in our time. However, studies show that the history of Pergamon goes even back to 3000 BC. Even though it still has not been determined the identities of the nations lived there, it is possible to speculate that this place has been an important settlement since Bronze Age. According to some historians, Acropolis is located on an old and extinct volcano.

Pergamon was one of the important cities of the state of Asia Minor that was loyal to the empire in Roman era. In addition to this, a city called as Pergamon was mentioned in the book of Pausanias, a Lydian geographer, and the famous book of Xenophon titled as “The March of the Ten Thousand”. In this regard, it is possible to date Acropolis as a city-state back to Ancient Greek Period.

What to See in Bergama (Pergamon)

Acropolis was located 300 meters above the sea, at the peak point of ancient city of Pergamon. The ancient city of Pergamon is known today as the Bergama Acropolis. Bergama archaeological site is located in Izmir, Turkey.

Studies show that the family of the king of Pergamon, the commanders, the intelligentsia and the ruling class were living at the Acropolis of Bergama. Also, there were temples, stores, state buildings, aqueducts and agoras (marketplace) within the boundaries of this settlement.

Today, you can see some of these artifacts from the ancient city of Pergamon in the Bergama Archaeological Site. Although we introduce Pergamon’s Acropolis in this article, this is not the only ancient ruin in the region. In addition, Asklepion, one of the important health centers of ancient times, is also located in Bergama.

1. The Temple of Trajan

The Temple of Traian is a temple that started to be built during the reign of the Roman Emperor Traian (AD 98 – 117) and was expanded and finished by his successor Hadrian upon the death of his predecessor.

During the Roman Empire, the worship of emperors was quite common. For this reason, there are many emperor temples built by the emperor himself or with the donations of the people in ancient cities.

2. The Temple of Athena

The Temple of Athena, the oldest known temple in Pergamon, was built in the 3rd century BC. Although it was built for Athena, the goddess of intelligence and peace, the inner sanctuary is also dedicated to Zeus, the God of Gods.

3. Theatre of Pergamon

Theater of Pergamon is known as the steepest ancient theater in the world. The theater had a capacity of 10 thousand people. Although the main purpose of the theater was to stage shows to entertain the public, it was also used for council meetings during the Roman period.

4. Temple of Dionysus

Located at the north of the terrace of the theatre, the Temple of Dionysus is recognized as one of the unique monuments that represent the architectural style of Ionian Period. It is good to state that the altar located inside the temple has survived until today. Some of the pieces of this temple are located at the Pergamon Museum in Berlin.

5. Library of Pergamon

The Library of Pergamon was recognized as the second biggest library and cultural center after the Library of Alexandria when it was operating. In fact, it is known that the Ancient Egypt banned the exportation of papyrus because of the competition between these two libraries.

When we examine the etymology of the word “parchment”, we can see that this word comes from the word stem “Pergamae Chartae” meaning “Pergamon Paper”. This paper was invented after the Egyptians banned the exportation of papyrus to be able to bring new works of art in the library located at this Acropolis.

Bergama Acropolis Entrance Fee 2024

Bergama Acropolis entrance fee is 15 Euros as of 2024. Museum Pass Turkey is valid for entrance to Pergamon Ruins. The information on the ticket price was last updated on March 20, 2024.

Bergama Acropolis Opening Hours 2024

Bergama Acropolis opening hours are between 08:30 in the morning and 17:30 in the evening. Ticket sales end at the box office at 17:00. Pergamon ruins are open to visitors every day of the week. Information on visiting hours was last updated on March 20, 2024.

There may be changes in visiting hours due to various renovations and organizations in archaeological sites in Turkey. So you can visit the official website of the ancient city to see the latest situation before you go.

Conclusion

Bergama Acropolis is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Turkey. If you like to explore ancient cities, you should definitely see places such as Pergamon, Ephesus and Aphrodisias on the west coast of Turkey.

If you are a history lover, you may be interested in the Historical Places in Turkey article from the compilations on this site. You can also find detailed information about many similar ruins and museums in the About Turkey category.

There are many ancient ruins in Turkey where you can trace the history of Ancient Greece, Rome and early Christianity. Those interested in antiquity can embark on a journey starting from the old cities on the west coast to Cappadocia in the east.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post BERGAMA (Acropolis) Entry Fee & Hours [Updated 2024] appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

Visiting the ancient city of Ephesus is a great historical experience. However, the region where Ephesus is located has such a rich culture that everything is not just about the ruins of Ephesus. In this article we will try to introduce the beauties that will take a few days to discover. I hope you enjoy things to do in and around Ephesus and have a nice holiday.

Things to Do in Ephesus (Travel Blog 2024)

When you see things to do in Ephesus, you will realize that it is not a good idea to come to Ephesus for a day trip. Most visitors miss the sights around the ancient city of Ephesus as they come to the region with cruise ships and day trips.

Ephesus is within the borders of Selcuk, a beautiful town in the city of Izmir. For those who visit Ephesus, it is a good idea to stay at hotels in Selcuk. There are budget-friendly small hotels and nice restaurants where you can find local Turkish cuisine. Things to see in Selcuk include a Roman Aqueduct, a Byzantine Church and Ephesus Archeology Museum.

In the Ephesus Travel Blog, we will present things to do for those who come to Ephesus from Istanbul, Bodrum or Kusadasi. You can trace Rome and Byzantium both in the ancient city of Ephesus and in the surrounding Selcuk district. You can also find insider advice on places to stay around Ephesus and guided tours of Ephesus at the bottom of the article.

1. Ephesus Ancient City

The ancient city of Ephesus dates back to 1000 BC. The legendary founder of the city, Prince Androcles, found Ephesus with the prophecy of the oracle of the Temple of Apollo. (You may find the foundation legend at the bottom lines)

Having a strong cult of mother goddesses, Ephesus was the religious center during the period of polytheistic religions. Initially dedicated to the goddess Cybele, the city later adopted the cult of the goddess Artemis.

Ephesus was the most important of the city states called the Ionian League during the Ancient Greek period. During the Roman Empire it was the capital of Asia Minor. Therefore, it was a lively trade center and had a population of around 250,000.

Ephesus, which was a center of pilgrimage thanks to the Temple of Artemis during polytheistic religions, maintains this feature even today. This is because it has an important place in the history of Christianity. Since Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, lived here for a time, Ephesus is on the Christian pilgrimage route.

It is worth noting that Ephesus is the third largest Roman ruin in the world. The three most important monuments in Ephesus are the Temple of Artemis, the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Hadrian.

After talking about Ephesus Ancient City in general, I felt the need to open a separate title for some historical artifacts in Ephesus. In the lines below, we will talk about Artemis Temple and Celsus Library, which were of great importance in history, in a little more detail.

2. Temple of Artemis

There is only one column left from the Temple of Artemis, which was once one of the seven wonders of the world. Carrying out archaeological excavations at the Temple of Artemis, JT Wood said that once there was the statue of Goddess Artemis on this column.

The Temple of Artemis, which was built in the 6th century BC, was a magnificent building rising above 127 columns. The temple, which was damaged by earthquakes and fires, was rebuilt several times. However, with the abandonment of the polytheistic religions after the 4th century, it could not return to its glorious days.

It is claimed that the columns of the Temple of Artemis were used in the construction of Hagia Sophia, although its reality has not been proven precisely. These 8 massive columns supporting the dome of Hagia Sophia are the most remarkable elements of the building.

3. Library of Celsus

The Library of Celsus, known as the largest library after the Alexandria and Pergamon libraries during the Roman period, was built in 114 AD in memory of Celsus Polemaeanus, a senior bureaucrat in the Roman Empire.

Before Celsus was elected as a consul in 92, he was a famous commander in the Roman army. Rising in his political career over time, Celsus became the Asian Governor of the Roman Empire and thus reached the climax of his influence.

Tiberius Julius Aquila, Celsus’ son, was determined to immortalize his father’s name in Asian provinces. Therefore, he started building the Celsus Library, which stands today in all its glory in Ephesus, the Capital of Asian States of the time. When Celsus died in 114, he was buried in the tomb built for him in the western part of the building. The library was completed 3 years after Celsus’ death, in 117 AD.

Archaeological findings show that there were over twelve thousand manuscripts in the Celsus Library. The library, which was used until 262, was badly damaged in the fire that year. The earthquakes in the following years turned the library into a ruin. Despite all these disasters, Library of Celsus is still the most iconic building of Ephesus.

4. Ephesus Museum

Ephesus Museum, located in the center of Selcuk province, is a place you can easily find. You can see the famous Statue of Artemis in the museum where the artifacts from Ephesus Ancient City are exhibited. This statue, which was taken from the famous Temple of Artemis I mentioned above, symbolizes abundance and fertility.

The Ephesus Archeology Museum also has Gladiator Stels, which you will not see anywhere else. These memorial stones, erected in honor of the gladiators, have reliefs depicting the fighters’ clothing and weapons. Although many who visit the area only see the ruins, this museum is also among the best things to do in Ephesus.

5. Basilica of St. John

Basilica of St. John is a church built in late antiquity near Ephesus. Saint John, one of the disciples of Jesus, came to Western Anatolia with Virgin Mary when Jesus died in 30s. It was thought that Saint John was buried around Ephesus after he died.

During the Byzantine Empire, the famous emperor Justinian decided to build a church where Saint John’s tomb was located. Justinian, who also built structures such as Hagia Irene and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, is known as the most remarkable emperor in Byzantine history.

While Justinian built the Basilica of St. John, he took an example of a famous church in Istanbul. He built the new church similar to the Church of the Holy Apostles, which was the first monumental church in Constantinople. This church was built by Constantine the Great after Constantinople was declared the Roman capital.

St. John’s Basilica was built between 548 and 565. Only ruins have survived from the church, which is located 3.5 kilometers from Ephesus Ancient City. Those traveling to Ephesus should definitely add this church to their must-see list.

6. The House of Virgin Mary

The House of Virgin Mary has an interesting history. According to traditional Christian history, after Jesus was crucified, his mother emigrated to Ephesus and died there. However, it was not known exactly where Virgin Mary lived until the 19th century.

A German nun named Anne Catherine Emmerich, who lived between 1774 and 1824, saw some religious delusions and turned them into a book. Based on the book that the nun wrote about what she saw, the researchers found a chapel in Ephesus in 1881.

The building, presumably to be the chapel of a Byzantine monastery located here in the 6th century, was associated with Mary. It remains a mystery how Catherine Emmerich, who had never been to Ephesus in her life, knew the location of a chapel that could be found as a result of long archaeological excavations.

The House of Virgin Mary is filled with curious tourists today. It is considered as one of the stops on the Christian Pilgrimage Road, which started in Europe and continued until Jerusalem. Visiting the house of the Virgin Mary is among the best things to do in Ephesus in 2024.

7. Ayasuluk Fortress

Ayasuluk Fortress is located on the highest hill of Selcuk Province. During the archaeological excavations in the region, remains dating back to the Neolithic Age were found.

The first castle here was built in the Byzantine period. However, it changed hands after the Seljuk Empire entered Anatolia aftermath of Battle of Manzikert. The fortress, which was strengthened during the Seljuk period, had 15 watch towers, living spaces and mosques. However, many of these historical buildings are in ruins today.

If you go to the castle, which has a bird’s eye view, you can take beautiful photos. However, as archaeological excavations continue, some parts of the castle are sometimes closed to visitors.

8. Isa Bey Mosque

Isa Bey Mosque, built during the Seljuk period, is one of the most beautiful works of 14th century architecture. Surrounded by high walls, the courtyard reflects a great stonework. There are reused columns in the courtyard and in some parts of the building that had been taken from an old Roman bath.

The name of the architect who designed the building was noted in the mosque inscription, which reflects the beauty of Turkish calligraphy. Isa Bey Mosque, one of the oldest examples of Turkish mosques in Anatolia, is definitely a place to be seen.

9. Byzantine Aqueduct

The Byzantine Aqueduct, which passes through the Selcuk district, attracts the attention of tourists as a place where storks nest on it. You may want to photograph the historical aqueduct located very close to the Isa Bey Mosque and St. John’s Basilica, which we mentioned in the upper lines.

There are many places to see about Roman history in Turkey. If you are interested in the magnificent water systems built by Rome, you should definitely see the Valens Aqueduct in Istanbul.

10. Grotto of the Seven Sleepers

Grotto of the Seven Sleepers is one of the most interesting places to visit in Ephesus. In order to properly understand the legendary events that took place here, it is recommended to take a guided tour on your Ephesus trip.

Many Roman emperors in history had implemented a policy of persecution of Christians. Christians fleeing from the Roman soldiers took refuge in rural geographies such as Cappadocia. The underground cities, valleys and rock churches you will see in Cappadocia today are proof of how Christians resisted these conditions in those days.

There was a similar situation in Ephesus. Legend has it that in 250 AD, the Roman emperor Decius punished seven faithful Christians by imprisoning them in a cave. Christians who fall asleep in the cave wake up like a normal person after 200 years. Christianity was then free on the territory of the Roman Empire.

They live the rest of their life in the city of Ephesus in peace. When they die, they were buried in the same cave. Therefore, the cave, which has Seven Sleepers, is on the pilgrimage route of Christians. The Grotto of Seven Sleepers is located about two kilometers from the ancient city of Ephesus.

11. Sirince Village

Sirince Village is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Ephesus and Kusadasi. It has a warm atmosphere with its red-roofed houses and cobblestone streets. Before the Turkish-Greek population exchange after the First World War, mainly Greeks lived here. After the exchange, Turks from Greece settled here.

The fact that Sirince is on a high hill surrounded by trees gives it a distinctive beauty. In this small town, famous for its fruit wines, you can taste delicious wines and eat good food. One of the oldest historical monuments in the town is a church dedicated to John the Baptist. It contains frescoes dating from the Byzantine period.

12. Pamucak Beach

Pamucak Beach is located 8 km from Selcuk city center and 6 km from Ephesus Archaeological Site. Pamucak, which is a wonderful beach with a length of 11 km, is also known as Ephesus Beach. The width of the golden sandy beach is about 80 meters. Kucuk Menderes River meets the sea from the middle of the coast in Pamucak.

Pamucak Beach is highly preferred for its blue flag clean sea and sandy structure, as well as being suitable for water sports and camping. In addition to many touristic facilities, Pamucak has a picnic area in the forest, a camping space and five-star hotels.

The Foundation Legend of Ephesus

In the Ephesus Travel Blog post, we talked about things to do in Ephesus so far. However, one of the most important things that makes Ephesus interesting is the foundation legend of Ephesus.

According to the legends, Ephesus and Istanbul were founded in similar ways as both cities began with the mysterious prophecies of an oracle in Delphi, Greece. Legend has it that, Androcles, the son of the King Codrus, sought the advice of the oracle of Temple of Apollo after his Father died.

He wanted to leave Athens and make a new start, but he didn’t know where to go. The oracle advised Androcles to go to the East, cross the Aegean Sea and land there; he said: “The fish will give you a signal, and the pig will guide you.”

So, Androcles crossed the Aegean Sea and anchored his ship at the bay where Kucuk Menderes River meets the sea. He and his men started fishing, and one of the fish jumped to the floor. Then, a pig came out of the bushes and stole the fish and ran away. Androcles chased the pig up a hill and then hit the pig with his arrow.

The fish gave the signal, and the pig guided them, and Androcles founded his new city where he killed the pig. This city, which Androclos founded in 1000 BC, would be one of the most important cities of ancient times.

Conclusion

Ephesus is definitely among the most beautiful places to visit while traveling to Turkey. Before ending the Ephesus Travel Blog, I will give you some suggestions on which guided tour you can take in Ephesus and where you can stay near Ephesus.

There may be long queues at the entrance of Ephesus in tourist season. For this reason, buying guided tour tickets for Ephesus ruins will save you time. You can buy a skip-the-line ticket by clicking this link and join a guided small group tour to Ephesus. Although these tickets are more expensive than standart Ephesus entrance fee, they allow you to visit the archaeological site with a guide.

The best places to stay near Ephesus are Selcuk, Sirince, Kusadasi (picture above) and Izmir. Selcuk is the closest one to Ephesus. However, you can also choose places like Kusadasi, Sirince and Izmir. According to your travel plan, each will give you some advantages. For more information on the subject, you can review our article on where to stay in Ephesus.

Ephesus Travel Blog 2024 by Serhat Engul

The post 12 BEST Things to Do in EPHESUS (Travel Blog → 2024) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

The unique landforms in Cappadocia were formed by wind and rain eroding the soft lava layer erupting from the Erciyes, Gullu and Hasan Mountains over the centuries. Cappadocia is a region located in the heart of Anatolia and covers a wide area spread over the cities of Nevsehir, Kayseri, Aksaray and Nigde.

Those who want to travel to Turkey usually start from Istanbul. If you want to go to Cappadocia after visiting Istanbul, traveling by plane is the most practical way. From Istanbul, you can reach Cappadocia Airport in Nevsehir in just one hour and twenty minutes.

Cappadocia can be visited in all seasons thanks to the winter season which is not too cold. Visiting Cappadocia in different seasons can give you different experiences. Snow-covered hills and fairy chimneys in winter offer a spectacular view. On the other hand, trekking in Cappadocia in spring will give you great pleasure.

If you are wondering about the best time to visit Cappadocia, I can say that this is the spring and autumn months. In these months, the weather is neither hot nor cold. These are also the best times for trekking and ballooning.

Cappadocia Travel Blog 2024

Cappadocia promises a fairy tale experience with land forms that are nowhere else in the world. For this reason, I would recommend you to spend at least two days to visit Cappadocia.

You can find insider tips that can make your trip easier on the Cappadocia travel blog. You can see the best things to do in Cappadocia in 2024 under 20 headings in the lines below.

1. Goreme Open Air Museum

Although the first historical findings about Cappadocia date back to the Hittites period, the remains of the present day are mostly from the early Christian period.

After Jesus’ death in the 30s, his apostles entered Anatolia through Antioch and began to spread Christianity. The rapid spread of monotheistic belief disturbed the Roman authorities and triggered centuries of oppression against Christians.

The Christian communities who could not perform their worship found a suitable habitat in the geography of Cappadocia. Volcanic rocks, which can be easily shaped even with simple tools, made it possible to build various living spaces.

Goreme Open Air Museum sheds light on the life of early Christians. Buckle, Apple, Snake, Dark and St Barbara churches are among the main churches to visit in Goreme Museum.

The most popular among the rock churches in Goreme is the Dark Church. These churches were the most important centers of monastic life in Cappadocia throughout the Middle Ages.

There are many historically important valleys in Cappadocia. However, you can find the most popular valleys of the region in the following six headings of the Cappadocia travel blog.

2. Devrent Valley

Devrent Valley, also known as the imagination valley, is located in Avanos. Devrent, which is also neighboring Zelve and Monks Valleys, is a place that challenges your imagination.

The fairy chimneys are associated with various animal and human forms. Especially the fairy chimney that resembles a camel is very famous. Another fairy chimney is attributed to a praying nun or Virgin Mary with her hands opened.

3. Monks Valley

The Monks Valley (aka Pasabag Valley) became a place of hermits who wanted to move away from worldly life and focus on religion especially during the Byzantine Empire period.

In the Valley of the Monks, there is a church dedicated to a famous saint who lived in Syria in the 5th century. The ascetic saint, Simeon Stylites, lived for 37 years on a platform above a column and opened a new chapter in monkhood.

4. Zelve Valley

Only one kilometer from the Valley of the Monks, Zelve Valley is home to pointed and wide-bodied fairy chimneys. Zelve Valley was very popular among religious people who escaped from the city life during the Byzantine period.

Uzumlu, Balikli and Geyikli churches can be visited in the valley which was one of the religious centers of Byzantium in the Middle Ages. The extraordinary landforms of Zelve inspired the monks.

5. Pigeon Valley

Pigeon Valley (aka Guvercinlik Valley), which covers 4 kilometers between Uchisar and Goreme, is ideal for trekking, valley biking and yoga. The name of the valley comes from the nests where people carved the rocks for pigeons.

The people of the region used the fertilizer of these pigeons in the vineyards and their eggs in the plaster of the religious frescoes. Pigeon nests from that period can still be seen in the valley.

6. Ihlara Valley

Ihlara Valley was created when the Melendiz River eroded the soft rocks and formed a 14 km long canyon with a depth of 100 to 200 meters. It is estimated that the settlement in Ihlara Valley started in the 4th century.

Thanks to the unique geological features of the region, frescoed churches carved into the rocks have survived to the present day. It is possible to visit the magnificent churches in the depths of the valley. In order to reach these hidden treasures, you have to go down 397 steps.

7. Red and Rose Valleys

Red and Rose Valleys are two neighboring valleys. Located between Cavusin and Goreme, Rose (Gulludere) Valley is home to many churches and monastery ruins. Rose Valley is a 4-kilometer trekking trail where fairy chimneys can be best viewed. Church Of Three Crosses and Ayvali Church can be seen as a heritage of Christianity.

The Red (Kizilcukur) Valley takes its name from red pumice rocks. The valley, which turns into a red color at sunset, is the best place to watch the sunset in Cappadocia. Red Valley offers great opportunities for those who want to take an Instagram photos in Cappadocia.

You can find the four most popular towns of the region in the next 4 titles of the Cappadocia travel blog. Each of these towns stands out with its own unique features.

8. Avanos

Avanos is one of the oldest pottery centers in the world. Pottery, one of the discoveries of the Neolithic, enabled people to keep enough food to protect them from famine. Pottery obtained by shaping the soil collected from the bed of the Kizilirmak (Red River) is an art that has existed in Avanos since the Hittites.

Attending pottery workshops in Avanos is among the fun things to do in Cappadocia. You can have a great time in short-term presentations and workshops for tourists. This activity is included in the program for most of the guided tours of Cappadocia. You can find advice on tours on the bottom lines.

9. Cavusin Village

Cavusin Village is located just 2 kilometers from Goreme. Cavusin, one of the oldest settlements in the Cappadocia region, is an ancient Christian settlement. There are important churches in the village, where early Christians escaped from the Roman soldiers.

The main churches to be seen in Cavusin are the Cavusin Church, and the Church of John the Baptist. In addition, the entrance of the Red & Rose valleys starts from Cavusin.

10. Urgup

Urgup is a place where you can see the most beautiful examples of stone houses of the region. When you go to Urgup’s town center, one of the things you will notice is Temenni Hill. On this hill, you can see the most prominent Seljuk and Ottoman monuments in Cappadocia.

Urgup came to the fore with a Turkish TV series years ago. If you have heard of this TV series called Asmali Konak, the house where the series was shot can still be visited.

11. Mustafapasa

Mustafapasa (aka Sinasos), located in Urgup, was a town where the Christian people lived until 1924. After the first world war, Christians left the town because of the population exchange between Turkey and Greece.

Christians who lived in Mustafapasa left many churches and mansions built with local stonemasonry. Mustafapasa, which was named Sinasos in antiquity, is worth visiting for the churches of St. George, St. Basil, St. Stefanos and Church of Constantine and Helena (this church can be seen in the picture above).

There are 35 underground cities in the entire Cappadocia region. Underground cities used to be a shelter for early Christians to escape the Roman persecution. The next two titles of the Cappadocia travel blog introduce the two most famous underground cities.

12. Derinkuyu Underground City

Derinkuyu Underground City was designed as an underground shelter for people to live in emergencies. In this underground city, which is 85 meters deep, there are food stores, wine cellars, water wells and meeting rooms. There is even a ventilation system for settlers to survive raids.

Derinkuyu was designed for the early Christians who escaped from the Roman soldiers when it was first built, so there is a baptistery, a missionary school and even a place of confession. In the middle ages it was used by the Byzantine people to protect them from the Arab raids.

13. Kaymakli Underground City

Kaymakli Underground City was built in 1200 BC during the Hittites. Everything was masterfully planned in this underground city. When you visit Kaymakli, which has a capacity of five thousand people, you will witness a very organized city plan.

Visiting the castles is one of the most interesting things to do in Cappadocia. The living spaces carved into the hills have been home to thousands of people. The next two topics of the Cappadocia travel blog will introduce the famous hills of the region.

14. Uchisar Castle

Uchisar Castle is the highest point where you can watch Cappadocia. It was a fortress created by Christians fleeing the persecution of the Roman authorities. The settlers carved the rocks and created living spaces for themselves.

In Cappadocia there is also Ortahisar Castle, which is slightly smaller than Uchisar. In the past, when one of these two castles was attacked by an enemy, there was an underground tunnel that allowed the people to escape to the other castle.

Uchisar can be seen in many parts of Cappadocia due to its height. It is only possible to watch Cappadocia from a higher point than Uchisar by participating in a balloon flight.

15. Ortahisar Castle

Ortahisar Castle, from a distance, looks like the biggest fairy chimney of the entire Cappadocia region. The shaping of this gigantic rock by human hands first began with the aim of protection during the Hittites. It served as a strong fortress during the Roman and Byzantine periods.

Ortahisar stands out as the most popular place for foreigners to live in Cappadocia. The foreigners who came to visit Cappadocia and were fascinated by the region bought and restored stone houses in this town and started to live here.

The next three topics of the Cappadocia travel blog are about unique things to do in Cappadocia. These three must-see places are also among the most photographed places in Cappadocia.

16. Three Beauties

These three fairy chimneys, which have become the symbol of Cappadocia, are called Three Beauties. The Three Graces are the most beautiful examples of the fairy chimneys with mushroom-shaped cap. One of Cappadocia’s most shared instagram photos is the Three Beauties.

17. Selime Monastery

Selime Monastery is located very close to Ihlara Valley. The monastery, which hosts 300,000 visitors a year, also served as a religious school in the Middle Ages.

The monastery, which carries the traces of early Christianity, has many chapels carved into the rocks as well as a cathedral. According to some historical records, the first loud Christian rite was held here.

18. Guray Ceramic Museum

Guray Ceramic Museum, the first and only underground ceramic museum in the world, introduces the cultural heritage of the region to its visitors. This museum is one of the experiences that will crown your travel to Cappadocia.

Tourists who come to the museum experience all the stages of pottery manufacturing and experience making pottery themselves. Guray Ceramic is the largest manufacturing and sales workshop in Cappadocia.

19. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloons

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon flight is among the must-do things for adventurous travelers in Cappadocia. In Cappadocia, hot air balloon tours are held 365 days a year. However, the departure point and the route of the flights may vary depending on the daily weather.

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon ride is made in the most beautiful places of Cappadocia such as Urgup, Goreme and Avanos. Thanks to the hot air balloon tours, it is possible to see the fascinating earth formations in Cappadocia from a height of several hundred meters.

20. Staying in the Cave Hotels

The most popular hotels to stay in the area are the Cappadocia cave hotels that are compatible with the region’s unique volcanic formations. In the last few decades when tourism developed rapidly in Cappadocia, beautiful boutique hotels were opened. Some of these hotels have received worldwide accommodation awards.

If you want to dig deeper on this subject, I suggest you to read the article on the best cave hotels in Cappadocia. It should also be noted that this link will direct you to another blog about Cappadocia.

Conclusion

Cappadocia is one of the must-see places for those visiting Turkey for the first time. The fabulous geography of the region has been attracting people like a magnet for thousands of years.

If you want to get more detailed information about Cappadocia, you can find many subheadings in the relevant category of Istanbul Clues website. In this section, there are more detailed articles about the places mentioned in the article.

If you want to organize a tour to go from Istanbul to Cappadocia, you can try this tour I recommend. This tour includes many of the best things to do in Cappadocia that we have mentioned so far on the Cappadocia travel blog.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post 20 Things to Do in CAPPADOCIA (Travel Blog → 2024) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

Gobekli Tepe has been growing in popularity since it was discovered to be the oldest place of worship in history. Gobekli Tepe, which has been the subject of Netflix’s TV series The Gift and the documentary The Story of God with Morgan Freeman, enchants its visitors with its mystery.

Center of Beliefs Anatolia

Anatolia has been the center of many beliefs throughout history and still bears the traces of them. The Hittites, the Ancient Greece, and the Roman Empire era can be given as examples of polytheistic beliefs.  For instance, Yazilikaya at Hattusa, the capital of the Hittites, and the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus are two important monuments in the history of polytheistic religions.

Following the era of polytheistic religions, places such as Ephesus, Antioch, and Cappadocia played an important role in the history of Christianity, which is a monotheistic religion. For example, St. Peter, one of the most prominent followers of Jesus Christ, built the first church in the Christianity, the Church of Saint Peter in Antioch.

The Christians who escaped from the oppression of the Roman Empire’s soldiers, took refuge in the underground cities of Cappadocia and practiced their religions secretly. After Jesus’ death, St. John and the Virgin Mary travelled to Ephesus and lived there.

The First Temple in the World, Gobekli Tepe

Anatolia witnessed an important discovery, so much so that, it changed the history of civilization pretty quickly. A temple located in 16 km northeast of Sanliurfa was found in Gobekli Tepe and this temple is an older monument than some others such as even Stonehenge in England or the Pyramids in Egypt.

Gobekli Tepe is thought to be the first temple in the world. Therefore, this ancient sanctuary is such an important spot that can change our knowledge regarding the prehistoric ages, which earned its place in UNESCO’s World Culture Heritage List.

History of Gobekli Tepe

The history of Gobekli Tepe dates back to 10,000 BCE and it was discovered by a German archeologist named Klaus Schmidt during the excavations made in 1995.

Firstly, it was believed that there was an ancient city during the first excavations made here. However, as the excavations continued, it was realized that Gobekli Tepe was a temple.

There are three meter high monolith columns at Gobekli Tepe, on which there are reliefs of an antelope, a snake, a fox, and a lion. Additionally, some abstract drawings and characters can also be seen on these columns. It’s believed that various religious rituals were carried out here and gods were offered sacrifices.

Facts About Gobekli Tepe

The common belief regarding the prehistoric ages was that people didn’t build temples during the hunter gatherer era. The monuments that were acknowledged as religious sites were built after humans became sedentary and built cities.

While cities were built, it was the houses that were built first, then it was living spaces and temples followed the others. Moreover, all of these developments were believed to have happened in the advanced ages of the Neolithic Age.

However, newly discovered facts about Gobekli Tepe demolished the common beliefs regarding the history of humanity in the prehistoric ages. People who built Gobekli Tepe designed it to serve as a religious site, maybe even a holy site.

This is because no trace of settlement was encountered during the excavations made at Gobekli Tepe. Thus, it means that people who built this temple visited this site only to perform rituals and from long distances.

What is Neolithic Revolution?

10,000 BCE is regarded as the early stages of Neolithic Age. Humans lived as hunter gatherer during these years and they didn’t begin farming yet as farming is associated with the collective and settled life.

Following the first stages of the settled life, permanent settlement areas were built and the first examples of city planning came out. Houses, streets, squares, and religious sites were built during this era.

The discovery of Gobekli Tepe has the potential to change this classical view that was regarded as true for a long time as it proves that people began worshipping a creator and carrying out religious rituals such as making sacrifices long times before the Neolithic Revolution.

Thus, it’s a proof that people began building temples before they settled down and farming. Furthermore, Gobekli Tepe is a sign that people built the temples first and the cities were shaped around these religious monuments.

Rising Popularity of the Site

As Gobekli Tepe was a discovery that has a magnitude to change the perception of history today, it aroused curiosity among people, which had a chain reaction that resulted in the pop culture. Netflix took the initiative to shoot a series named The Gift about Gobekli Tepe.

Gobekli Tepe Archaeological Site, thanks to its mystery, is a major candidate to be the subject of many novels, TV series, and movies. As the excavations are still in process, the ruins has been turned into a museum. As the walking routes were built, the visitors can visit this historical place without disturbing the archeologists working here.

Gobekli Tepe Turkey Entrance Fee 2024

Gobekli Tepe entrance fee is 20 Euros as of 2024. Museum Pass Turkey is valid at the entrance to Gobekli Tepe Archaeological Site, which is affiliated to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The information about the ticket price was last updated on March 20, 2024.

If you want to join the daily tour to Gobekli Tepe from Istanbul, you can access the recommended guided tour from this link. Tickets are sold under the guarantee of GetYourGuide, an international travel site. You can cancel the tour up to 24 hours and get a full refund.

Gobekli Tepe Opening Hours 2024

Gobekli Tepe opening hours are between 08:30 in the morning and 17:30 in the evening. Please also note that ticket sales at the box office end at 17:00. Gobeklitepe can be visited every day of the week. Information on visiting hours was last updated on March 20, 2024.

There may be changes in the visiting hours of the museums due to various activities or restorations. Therefore, you are advised to visit the official website of the museum to see the latest status before you go.

Conclusion

In the above lines, I stated that Gobekli Tepe’s reputation is gradually increasing and that is why it is the subject of documentaries and TV series. On the other hand, there are other historical artifacts in Anatolia that have attracted attention in recent years.

Examples of these are Mount Nemrut in Adiyaman, Sumela Monastery in Trabzon and Ihlara Valley in Cappadocia. All three are attracting increasing attention by domestic and foreign tourists. There are also Ani Ruins, which have come to the forefront thanks to the popularity of traveling with the Dogu Ekspresi (A train route to the easternmost part of Turkey) in recent years.

On this site, I try to introduce the most important museums in Turkey, primarily in Istanbul. If this article has piqued your interest, you can access the articles of other museums and discover their mysteries from the links highlighted in blue on the top lines.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post GOBEKLI TEPE Entry Fee, History, Facts (Updated 2024) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is more than just a place to watch the sunrise. It is the final resting place of Antiochus I of Commagene, a king whose ambition was as lofty as the mountain itself. Here, he ordered the creation of a sanctuary blending Greek, Persian, and Anatolian traditions — a bold statement of unity and power carved into the heart of the Taurus Mountains.

As a licensed tour guide who has spent over two decades exploring Turkey’s historical landscapes, I can say that few places rival Mount Nemrut’s combination of natural beauty, archaeological mystery, and spiritual grandeur. In this guide, you’ll find the latest 2026 visiting information — from entrance fees and opening hours to practical tips — along with the captivating history that makes this mountaintop monument one of the world’s most extraordinary open-air museums.

History of the Mount Nemrut

What makes Mount Nemrut famous is the magnificent sculptures on the top of the mountain. These sculptures, which are a wonderful blend of ancient Greek gods and local religion, create a unique place of worship. We begin the history of Mount Nemrut from the end of the Ancient Greek period, namely the period of Alexander the Great.

1. Alexander the Great

Philip II, the king of the Macedonian Empire, was assassinated in 336 BC. His successor son, Alexander, was someone who would change the course of history. After being crowned in Macedonia, located at the modern-day Greece, Alexander the Great kept the peace in his kingdom and started to campaign.

Entering into Anatolia with 32,000 infantry and 5,100 cavalry, Alexander the Great eradicated the strong Persian Empire in Asia Minor. Greek City-States that had been occupied for many years by Persians gave Alexander the Great a hero welcome. Ephesus, one of the most famous ancient cities of our age, was among those liberated cities.

Determined to establish the biggest empire of the world, Alexander firstly marched on Persia, then Ancient Egypt and finally India. Capturing the large part of the known world at that time, Alexander syncretized the cultural heritage of the ancient civilizations with one another through his military campaigns.

The legacy of Ancient Greece spread around the world because of Alexander the Great and a cultural bridge between the West and the East was formed.

2. The Diadochi

After storming through for 14 years when he remained on the throne, Alexander the Great passed away because of an inflammatory disease at the age of 32. However, he succeeded in fulfilling his dreams in this short span of time. Following his death, his generals came to the throne and Macedonian Empire was divided into four. The generals named Cassander, Ptolemy, Lysimachus and Seleucus became the kings of Succession Period also known as The Diadochi.

Seleucus, one of the generals of Alexander, founded the Seleucid Empire in modern-day Southeastern Anatolia, Syria, Iraq and Iran regions. Founded in 313 BC, The Seleucid Empire ruled in this area up to 190 BC. However, the Seleucid Empire was defeated by the Roman Empire at the Battle of Magnesia that broke out in 190 BC. After facing a heavy defeat, the empire began to collapse.

After the decline of Seleucid Kingdom, a number of kingdoms in that area declared their freedoms. One of those kingdoms, also the main subject of our article, was the Kingdom of Commagene. Founded in 163 BC, the Kingdom of Commagene embodied modern-day cities of Adiyaman, Gaziantep and Kahramanmaras.

3. The Kingdom of Commagene

The reason why we go back as late as to the period of Alexander the Great when we mention the Kingdom of Commagene is to emphasize the acculturation of that area. Apart from synthesizing the cultures of West and East, Alexander the Great also married to the daughter of the Persian King Darius III. The hero of our story King Antiochus I was inspired by those events, as well.

Antiochus I ruled the Kingdom of Commagene between 70-36 BC. He claimed that his maternal side descended from Alexander the Great while his paternal side descended from Persian King Darius the Great. It was for this reason that he wanted to syncretize the cultures of West and East.

4. Statue Heads of Mount Nemrut

King Antiochus wanted to establish a bond between polytheistic Greek mythology and Zoroastrianism. For that purpose, he built a magnificent temple in 2100-meter-high Mount Nemrut. He put 8-meter-high statues around this structure that functions as both a temple and a mausoleum.

The statue heads of Mount Nemrut are reflections of gods of Ancient Greek and Persian religions. If we interpret it with Greek Mythology to make it more familiar, the statues represent Zeus, Apollo and Hercules. On the other hand, these figures also symbolize equivalent gods in Persian religion, as well. In addition to them, there are two lion and two eagle statues, too.

The relief figures that represent Persian and Macedonian ancestry of Antiochus I are also quite impressive. The artistic exposition on the statues carries the influence of Greek, Persian and Armenian cultures.

The king of Commagene Antiochus I placed his own statue among these symbolic figures and emphasized his special relationship with all these divine characters. After declaring himself as a god-king, it is obvious that he wanted to be worshipped as a divine being after his death.

Mount Nemrut Entrance Fee 2026

Mount Nemrut entrance fee is 10 Euros as of 2025. Museum Pass Turkey is valid at the entrance to Mount Nemrut, which is an archaeological site under the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The information on the ticket price was last updated on February 11, 2026.

Mount Nemrut Opening Hours 2026

Mount Nemrut is open daily from 04:00 in the morning to 20:30 in the evening. Please note that ticket sales at the box office end at 20:00. The information on visiting hours was last updated on February 11, 2026.

There may be changes in the visiting hours of Mount Nemrut in Adiyaman due to various activities or restorations. Therefore, you are advised to visit the official website of the museum to see the latest status before you go.

Conclusion

Mount Nemrut has also found a place in popular culture in recent years. For example, some scenes of the recently released Netflix series The Gift took place where the mythological statues of Mount Nemrut are located. In the same series, we also saw the Gobekli Tepe, which is considered to be the oldest temple in history.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post Mount Nemrut Entry Fee, History, Facts (2026 Update) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

Ani Ruins stands out among historical places to visit in Turkey. If you want to get off the tourist route and do something different, you can consider visiting places such as Ani Ruins, Mount Nemrut and Sumela Monastery.

Where are the Ani Ruins

Ani Ruins are located in Kars, the easternmost city of Turkey. Ani is very close to the Turkish-Armenian border and 46 kilometers from Kars city center. According to researches, the settlement around the city dates back thousands of years. However, most of the historical buildings in the city of Ani were built during the Bagratid Kingdom.

Located in the entrance of Anatolian route of Silk Road, it is considered that this town was an important center throughout the history. Apart from the unique examples of Armenian architecture, there are also constructions of Byzantine and Seljuk architectures.

Ari Ruins are located in an area that 78 hectares wide. Recognized as an archeological site, this place includes various historical structures such as caravansary, bathhouse, church, palace and bridge.

History of the City of Ani

The history of the city of Ani goes back 1500 years. However, the peak period of the city was between 961 and 1045, when it was the capital of the Bagratid Kingdom.

Bagratuni Dynasty was founded after Armenians were freed of Arab dominance. Historical findings show that this dynasty ruled from 885 to 1045. Bagratid Armenia was a strategic place in the power struggle between Byzantine Empire and Abbasid Caliphate.

Even though the dynasty ruled shorter than 200 years, it made a lot of progress in culture and economy under the rule of King Ashot III. It is worth noting that the City of Ani is the achievement of Ashot III on a large scale.

The reign of Ashot III is considered as “The Golden Age of Armenia” by historians so we can say that the City of Ani gained importance in this era. After moving the capital from Kars to Ani, King Ashot III started to make developments in the city. Churches, schools, hospitals, mansions and palaces built in this era in the city of Ani can still be seen in this day.

The city of Ani was also situated in an important trade route so there were a lot of markets, taverns and factories in the city. Ashot III had huge walls built known as “Ashotashen” during his rule. The constructions he contributed in this city earned him the title of “Voghormat”, meaning “the merciful” in Armenian.

Things to See in the Ani Ruins

There are many things to see in Ani Ruins. I recommend that those who like to take pictures come here in winter. Because the snow-covered ruins give you the opportunity to take magnificent photos.

The city of Ani gives us important clues about the medieval Armenian architecture. Although the city of Ani stands out with its buildings from the Bagratid Kingdom, it continued to be a trade center during the Seljuk Empire. For this reason, it is possible to see mosques and caravansaries inspired by the Seljuk architecture in the city of Ani.

1. The Great Cathedral

The Great Cathedral stands out as the most beautiful church to see in Ani ruins. The church was originally dedicated to the Holy Mother of God. The church, which started to be built in 989 during the period of King Smbat II, was completed in 1001. An Armenian architect named Trdat built the church.

The main reason why the church is so famous is its architect. Because Trdat has been the most respected architect in the Medieval Armenian community. Trdat, who managed to go beyond his time with his techniques, gave life to this gothic-looking cathedral of Ani.

2. The Church of St Gregory of Tigran Honents

The Church of St Gregory of Tigran Honents, whose construction was completed in 1215, is the best preserved structure of Ani. It was built with donations by an Armenian merchant named Tigran Honents. The church has a very impressive decoration.

The church is dedicated to Gregory the Illuminator, who brought Christianity to the Armenian community. St. Gregory is also accepted as the founder of the Armenian Church and many churches dedicated to him in Turkey.

There are priceless medieval frescoes inside the church. Since fresco was not very common in Armenian churches, the drawings here are unique. In the drawings, the life of Jesus and Saint Gregory is depicted.

3. The Monastery of the Hripsimian Virgins

The Monastery of the Hripsimian Virgins was built on the caravan road reaching the City of Ani. The only structure that survives from the monastery is a small chapel. The chapel, located on the western bank of the River Arpacay separating Armenia and Turkey.

The monastery complex was built by Tigran Honents in the 13th century. Surrounded by high walls, the monastery was dedicated to the nuns of Saint Hripsime. The monastery is one of the rare historical monuments that have survived to the present day in Ani.

4. The Mosque of Manuchihr

The mosque of Manuchihr is known as the first Turkish mosque in Anatolia. Sultan Alparslan, who conquered Ani in 1064, handed over the city to the Shaddadid Dynasty in 1072. The mosque was built in the name of Ebul Menucehr, the king of the dynasty.

The only part of the mosque that has remained intact until today is the minaret with 99 steps. The remaining parts have been partially renovated. However, the Bismillah (meaning in the name of god) inscription embroidered with the motifs of the Kufi alphabet on the north wall is still there.

Kufi is the geometric interpretation of Arabic letters, which are difficult to use in works of art, engraved in tiles, carpets and calligraphy.

5. The City Walls of Ani

The City Walls of Ani encircled the city and protected it from all kinds of enemy attacks. The strongest defensive wall in the city was located in the northern part.

Because this front was the only face of Ani that was not naturally protected by rivers and valleys. Most sources report that these walls were built by King Smbat, who ruled between 977 and 989.

The walls are made of concrete core, covered with beige basalt, carefully cut and intertwined. The walls are patterned with red and black stones. Crosses on the wall decorated with heraldry and talismans and symbols.

6. The Seljuq Caravanserai

The Seljuk Caravanserai, built in the 12th century in Ani, is located on the main street. The decorations on the door of the caravanserai reflect the classical features of the Seljuk architectural style.

The city of Ani was located on the Silk Road, the most important trade route from China to Europe. Caravansaries were built on these trade routes, where merchants would rest. Today, there are many caravanserais left from the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum (Successor of the Seljuk Empire) in Anatolia.

Ani Ruins Entrance Fee 2024

Ani Ruins entrance fee is 8 Euros as of 2024. Museum Pass Turkey is valid for the entrance to Ani Ancient City in Kars. The information on the ticket price was last updated on March 20, 2024.

Ani Ruins Opening Hours 2024

Ani Ruins opening hours are between 08:00 in the morning and 17:00 in the evening. Please also note that ticket sales at the box office end at 16:30. The City of Ani can be visited everyday of the week. Information on visiting hours was last updated on March 20, 2024.

There may be changes in the visiting hours of Ani Ruins due to various activities or restorations. Therefore, you are advised to visit the official website of the museum to see the latest status before you go.

Conclusion

Located in Kars, Turkey’s easternmost point, the Ani Ruins promise an unparalleled experience to its visitors. Here you can see the traces of a kingdom that existed in the Middle Ages and reached its peak in terms of architecture.

Although the Ani Ruins are beautiful in all seasons, you can take the most beautiful photos during the winter months. Due to the popularity of the Eastern Express (Dogu Ekspresi) in recent years, tourists pour in from Istanbul to Kars and, of course, to Ani Ruins in winter.

On this website, I introduce the important museums of Turkey. Among these, Pamukkale Hierapolis in Aydin, Goreme Open Air Museum in Cappadocia, Saint Pierre Cave Church in Hatay and Troy Ancient City in Canakkale stand out with their interesting stories.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post ANI RUINS Entry Fee, History, Hours (Updated → 2024) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

Sumela is more than just a remote sanctuary—it’s a testament to human devotion and ingenuity. Perched dramatically at 1,200 meters above sea level, the monastery seems to defy gravity, clinging to the rock face as if held up by faith alone. It served as a vital religious center for centuries, with successive empires and local rulers contributing to its preservation. Walking through its narrow corridors and terraces, one can feel the echo of ancient prayers still resonating through the stone.

In recent years, the monastery has undergone extensive restoration and reopened to the public, drawing travelers from around the world. For those interested in Byzantine history, Orthodox heritage, or simply awe-inspiring landscapes, a visit to Sumela is a must. However, due to its popularity and seasonal access limitations, it’s important to plan your visit carefully—especially regarding opening hours and entrance fees.

In this guide, you’ll find up-to-date information for the 2026 season, including current ticket prices, visiting times, and helpful tips for making the most of your journey into this mountain sanctuary — all based on my perspective as a licensed tour guide who has explored the site firsthand.

Monastic Life in Early Christianity

Monastic Life in Early Christianity was on the rise in the 4th century, when the Sumela Monastery was established. Although the valleys of Cappadocia stand out when it comes to monastic life, Sumela was also an important place.

Christians faced persecution in the Roman Empire for 300 years. During the period between 30s, the death date of Jesus Christ, and 313, Christians faced heavy mistreatment.

Finally, the Edict of Milan was declared by Emperor Constantine in 313 and the Christians were given the right to practice their religions freely. After the First Council of Nicaea in 325, it began to spread in the empire rapidly.

It was also the time when the philosophical foundations of Christianity were laid and the most important religious leaders in the history of Christianity came out. A big portion of these figures were born, grew up, and became clergymen in Anatolia (Modern Turkey).

The followers of Christianity in its early years had practiced their religions secretly in rural areas or underground cities. After centuries of oppression, it was now time for Christians to live their religion as they wished.

As Jesus Christ advised, they wanted to live a simple life and seclude themselves from material things. Therefore, there was a tremendous rise in seclusion and living the life of a monk.

And Sumela Monastery was built at such a time. It was one of the hundreds of monasteries built in the Byzantine Empire (aka Eastern Roman Empire) that included vast lands from the Balkans to Caucasus.

History of the Sumela Monastery

The history of the Soumela Monastery goes back to the 4th century. According to tradition, the location of this monastery was decided by two monks, who were later promoted to be saints.

The monks named Barnabas and Sophronios saw Virgin Mary carrying baby Jesus in their dreams and they saw that the maiden was pointing at a hill. When they woke up, the monks began their journey to find this place and came across each other exactly where Sumela Monastery stands today.

They realized they had the same dream and concluded that it was a divine sign. This area was regarded as holy and Sumela Monastery was built in 386. The period when the monastery was built coincides with the reign of the pious emperor Theodosius I of Rome.

It was Belisarius, the famous general of Emperor Justinian, who initiated the extensive restoration of the monastery in the 6th century. Sumela reached the peak of its importance especially during the Empire of Trebizond (late Middle Ages).

What Makes Sumela Monastery Sacred?

In Christianity, sacred items play an important role. For instance, you can see important icons as well as relics of various saints in churches. If there are relics related to disciples or saints, these relics increase the sentimental value of such churches.

What made the Soumela Monastery sacred was the icon of Panagia Soumela, which had a great spiritual significance in the eastern Christianity. According to a belief, this icon was made and painted by Saint Luke, the disciple of Jesus and one of the authors of Bible.

Since this icon was believed to be associated with miracles, the fame of the monastery spread throughout Anatolia and even throughout Eastern Rome. So much so that the presence of this icon made Soumela have a special position among all Christian monasteries in the East.

The Icon of Panagia Soumela

The Icon of Panagia Soumela was buried underground of a church named St. Barbara Monastery by monks who left Turkey due to Population Exchange between Greece and Turkey and the icon stayed buried here for around 8 years. Later, the Greek PM Venizelos asked Turkish PM Ismet Inonu to return the icon in 1931.

Thanks to the special permission by Turkey, one of the monks that buried the icon during the exchange period came back to Trabzon. The icon was found at St. Barbara Church and it was returned to Greece. This icon, highly sacred for the Christians, was preserved in Benaki Museum in Greece.

Later on, it was agreed that the icon should be preserved in a church due to its sentimental value. To that end, a church was built named “New Sumela Monastery” and the icon was placed in this church. Today, this church that houses the icon is regarded by the Orthodox believers as a spot on the way to pilgrimage.

Trabzon Sumela Monastery Entrance Fee 2026

Sumela Monastery entrance fee is 20 Euros as of 2026. Museum Pass Turkey is valid at the entrance to Soumela Monastery in Trabzon. The information on the ticket price was last updated on February 11, 2026.

Trabzon Sumela Monastery Opening Hours 2026

Sumela Monastery is open daily from 08:00 in the morning to 17:00 in the evening. Please note that ticket sales at the box office end at 16:30. The information on visiting hours was last updated on February 11, 2026.

Visiting times of the museum may change due to some events and renovations. Before going to the museum, I recommend you to visit the official website of the monastery in Trabzon and review the latest situation.

Conclusion

The Sumela Monastery is one of the most important parts of the deep-rooted Christian heritage in Turkey. Although you will have to climb hundreds of stairs to reach this mysterious place, it is definitely worth it.

When you visit the Sumela Monastery, you will see magnificent icons from the Byzantine period. A similar experience can only be seen in Byzantine churches in Istanbul and in rock churches in Cappadocia.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post Sumela Monastery Entrance Fee & Hours (2026 Update) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

In this article, you can find information about the history of the ancient city of Troy, where the Trojan War took place. In addition, the entrance fee and visiting hours of the Troy ruins and museum are noted.

The city of Troy, which is among the historical places to visit in Turkey, is located within the borders of Canakkale province. This city is also where Gallipoli, one of the most important fronts of the First World War, is located.

The History of Troy

The history of Troy goes back to 3500 BC. However, the rise of the city dates back to the Hittite period in the late Bronze age. The popularity of Troy today comes from the Trojan War in the 12th century BC. The Trojan War, described in Homer’s epics, still inspires popular culture.

According to the story in Iliad, the incidents that led to the war started at a wedding ceremony that Zeus organized. Eris, the goddess of strife and discord, is not invited to the wedding of Peleus and Thetis and she sends an apple to the wedding and wants it to be given to the most beautiful goddess at the wedding.

However, Athena, Hera and Aphrodite can’t agree on who should have the apple. Then, Zeus assigns Paris to make the choice and sends both the apple and goddesses to him. Paris gives the apple to Aphrodite, but he wants something in return. Aphrodite will make Helen, the most beautiful woman in the world, fall in love with Paris.

When Helen falls in love with Paris, the Achaeans (that’s how Homer described the Greek communities) sees it as a humiliation. They gather an army under the leadership of the King Agamemnon of Mycenae and wage a war on Troy and that’s how the war begins.

Homer speaks of a war in Iliad that lasts for ten years. However, he describes the last month of the war in more details. The Trojan War inspired many films and novels in modern times. The trip of Odysseus, one of the Greek commanders at war, to his home (Ithaca) after the fall of Troy is narrated in Odyssey.

The city of Troy, which was thought to have been destroyed during the Trojan War, survived. The city, which also existed in Ancient Greek and Roman periods, lost its importance in the late antiquity. We know from today’s finds that the city had been rebuilt many times due to natural disasters or wars. The Trojan War, which was lost against the Achaeans, was one of these incidents.

Rediscovery of the Ancient City

Until the discovery of Troy in 1870, this ancient city was only a legendary place mentioned in epics. The discovery of a German archeologist, Heinrich Schlimann, however, proved that there was actually an ancient city named Tory where Homer mentioned it to be. The researches in the following years indicated the history of the city dates back to Hittites.

There was a belief that the Trojan War was a mythological story, but it turns out that a big war and destruction happened in the region. The Achaean League founded by the Achaeans, occupied a lot of cities in 13 and 12 BC

After the establishment of the confederation, Achaeans invaded various territories that also included Canakkale. Therefore, it’s highly likely that the Trojan War is a legend that is based on the wars that were fought during these years.

Things to See in Troy

Things to see in Troy include layers of 9 different eras of the city. To put it another way, the current findings indicate that this city was rebuilt nine times in a row. The city destroyed by earthquakes, fires, and wars was rebuilt every single time. And the objects from the different periods of the city can be seen at Troy Museum in Canakkale city of Turkey.

The Temple of Athena, found on the last layer of the city, is a unique monument that is identified with the city. This monument is made of marble and although it was built by Lysimachus, one of the commanders of Alexander the Great, it was renovated by Emperor Augustus centuries later. You can come across the works from the Hellenistic and Roman architecture in this temple.

On the layer that dates back to 1900 BC to 1300 BC, you can see the remnants of houses, a water canal and the walls. These structures are seen as an example of city planning in Hellenistic era.

Troy Ruins Entrance Fee 2024

Troy Ruins entrance fee is 27 Euros as of 2024. Museum Pass Turkey is valid at the entrance to Troy Ancient City in Canakkale. The information on the ticket price was last updated on March 20, 2024.

You can also visit the Troy Museum to crown your visit to the ruins of Troy. In this recently opened modern museum, archaeological finds from the Ancient City of Troy are on display.

Troy Museum Ticket Price 2024

Troy Museum ticket price is 27 Euros as of 2024. The museum, where historical artifacts in Troy are exhibited, opened in 2018 and created great excitement in the archaeological world. In the year it opened, The Troy Museum was included in Time Magazine’s list of the 100 Greatest Places in the World.

It should be noted that the ticket you buy to enter the ruins of Troy is not valid here. It is necessary to purchase a separate ticket. If you have Museum Pass Turkey, you can visit both museums free of charge.

Troy Ruins Opening Hours 2024

Troy Ruins opening hours are between 08:30 in the morning and 17:30 in the evening. Please also note that ticket sales at the box office end at 17:00. The archaeological site can be visited everyday of the week. Information on visiting hours was last updated on March 20, 2024.

Visiting times of the Troy archaeological site and the museum may change due to some events and renovations. Therefore, you can visit the official website of the Museum to see the latest situation.

Conclusion

Troy is one of the must-see places in Turkey. If you want to get some inspiration from popular culture before visiting this place, you can watch Brad Pitt’s movie named after the city (2004) or the Netflix production The Fall of a City (2018).

If you want to join the daily tour to Troy from Istanbul, you can access the recommended guided tour from this link. Tickets are sold under the guarantee of GetYourGuide, an international travel site. You can cancel the tour up to 24 hours and get a full refund.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post TROY Ruins and Museum Price & Hours (Updated 2024) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

This is not just a natural wonder you photograph and leave behind.
Pamukkale is a walkable archaeological landscape, where Roman streets, monumental theaters, sacred pools, and necropolises coexist with flowing mineral water.

In this guide, you’ll find clear, up-to-date, and experience-based information — written from the perspective of a licensed local guide with nearly two decades of on-site guiding across Turkey — so you can visit Pamukkale with the right expectations and the right timing.

A Brief History of Hierapolis

Long before Pamukkale became a visual icon, Hierapolis was a sacred city.

Archaeological evidence suggests settlement in the area predates the Hellenistic period, possibly connected to Anatolian mother-goddess cults. The city as we know it was formally founded in the 2nd century BC by Eumenes II of Pergamon, and later reshaped under Roman rule.

After a major earthquake during the reign of Emperor Nero, Hierapolis was rebuilt as a fully Roman city — complete with monumental baths, a grand theater, colonnaded streets, and one of the largest necropolises in Anatolia.

During the Byzantine era, the city gained new significance as a Christian pilgrimage center, believed to be the place where Saint Philip was martyred. This layered history is why Hierapolis feels less like a single-period ruin and more like a compressed timeline of ancient belief systems.

The “Gates of Hell” and the Immortal Priests

One of the most fascinating — and well-documented — aspects of Hierapolis is the Ploutonion, a cave complex once believed to be an entrance to the underworld.

Ancient writers such as Strabo describe how animals brought inside the cave would die almost instantly due to toxic gases, while priests emerged unharmed — earning them the reputation of “immortal priests.”

Modern scientific studies (including research published in Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences) confirmed the presence of carbon dioxide gas concentrated near ground level. The priests’ survival was not divine immunity, but knowledge of timing, airflow, and elevation.

It’s a powerful reminder that Hierapolis was not only a spiritual center, but also a place where ancient science and ritual quietly intersected.

Things to Do in Pamukkale & Hierapolis (2026)

Pamukkale is best experienced slowly and on foot. Rushing through it reduces the site to a checklist — and that would miss the point entirely.

1. Walk the Travertine Terraces

The white travertines are the visual heart of Pamukkale. Walking barefoot on the terraces, with warm mineral water flowing beneath your feet, is a uniquely sensory experience.

Reality check:
Water levels vary by season and conservation needs. The terraces are not always filled wall-to-wall with water — and that’s normal.

2. Explore the Great Theater

The Hierapolis Theater is one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the eastern Mediterranean. Its scale, reliefs, and elevated position offer both architectural insight and panoramic views.

This is not a quick photo stop — it’s a place to sit, observe, and understand how Roman cities were designed for spectacle and symbolism.

3. Swim in Cleopatra’s Antique Pool (Optional)

This thermal pool, filled with fallen ancient columns, offers a rare chance to swim inside an archaeological setting.

Important:
Entry requires an additional ticket, and access may be limited during peak hours.

4. Visit the Pamukkale Archaeology Museum

Housed in the former Roman baths, the museum provides essential context for what you see on-site — especially sarcophagi, reliefs, and sculptures from Hierapolis and Laodicea.

If you want Pamukkale to feel meaningful rather than just photogenic, don’t skip this.

5. Hot Air Balloon Flights (Early Morning)

Pamukkale is one of the few places in Turkey where balloon flights are available outside Cappadocia.

Flights are weather-dependent and not guaranteed daily, but when conditions allow, they offer a striking aerial perspective of the travertines and surrounding valley.

Pamukkale Entrance Fee (2026)

• Entrance fee: €30
• Included:
  • Travertine terraces
  • Hierapolis Ancient City
  • Pamukkale Archaeology Museum
• Not included:
  • Cleopatra’s Antique Pool (extra fee)

Last updated: February 9, 2026

Pamukkale Opening Hours (2026)

• Daily: 08:00 – 20:00

Seasonal evening openings may apply during the summer as part of Turkey’s Night Museology program, but these are limited and subject to change.

Always check official updates before your visit, especially during restoration periods or special events.

How to Get to Pamukkale (2026 Guide)

Pamukkale is located in southwestern Turkey, within Denizli Province. Reaching the site is straightforward once you choose the option that best fits your itinerary — whether you are coming directly from Istanbul or combining Pamukkale with Ephesus or the Aegean coast.

Below are the most practical and commonly used routes.

From Istanbul to Pamukkale (Fastest Option)

Traveling by road from Istanbul takes around 7–8 hours, which only makes sense if you are on a longer Aegean road trip. For most travelers, flying is the most efficient choice.

Direct flights operate daily from both Istanbul airports (IST and SAW) to Denizli Çardak Airport (DNZ), with a flight time of about 1 hour 15 minutes. The airport is approximately 70 km (about 1 hour) from Pamukkale. Upon arrival, shared airport shuttles and transfers provide a simple and affordable connection to Pamukkale village or nearby hotels.

From Izmir or Selçuk (Ephesus) by Train (Most Relaxed Route)

If your itinerary includes Ephesus or Izmir, traveling to Pamukkale by train is one of the most comfortable and scenic options.

Trains run from Izmir Basmane Station and Selçuk Station directly to Denizli Train Station. The journey takes around 4.5–5 hours from Izmir and about 3.5 hours from Selçuk. Tickets are inexpensive, and advance reservations are usually not required, making this a popular choice for independent travelers.

From Denizli to Pamukkale (Final Leg)

Whether you arrive in Denizli by train or intercity bus, reaching Pamukkale itself is very easy.

From Denizli Bus Terminal, go down to the lower level where local minibuses operate. Minibuses marked “Pamukkale” or “Karahayıt” depart every 15–20 minutes and reach the Pamukkale entrance area in approximately 20 minutes, dropping passengers close to the site.

Final Thoughts: Is Pamukkale Worth It?

Absolutely — if you approach it correctly.

Pamukkale is not just a stop between Istanbul and Cappadocia. It is a destination that rewards visitors who understand that:

• The travertines are part of a protected ecosystem
• Hierapolis is a serious archaeological site
• The experience improves dramatically with time, context, and realistic expectations

If you have one extra day in your itinerary, Pamukkale is not just “worth it” — it becomes one of the most distinctive memories of your journey through Turkey.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post Pamukkale (Hierapolis) Ticket Price & Hours | 2026 Update appeared first on Istanbul Clues.