Turkey’s Hidden Gems: Spectacular Sites to Visit

Turkey’s Hidden Gems: Spectacular Sites to Visit

Editor Comment: Turkey is a country with a rich and diverse history, breathtaking landscapes, and stunning architectural wonders that attract tourists from all over the world. However, there are some hidden gems that are often overlooked by travelers. In this article, we will explore some of Turkey’s lesser-known yet spectacular sites that you should add to your travel itinerary.

The Sumela Monastery

The Sumela Monastery is a 1,600-year-old Greek Orthodox Monastery located in the Macka district of the Trabzon province. The monastery is carved into the cliffs of the Altindere National Park and overlooks a breathtakingly beautiful valley.

The monastery is home to some spectacular frescoes, including those of the Virgin Mary, Jesus, and the Apostles. The Monks of the Sumela Monastery were responsible for the creation of these magnificent frescoes over the centuries, and they are considered to be masterpieces of Byzantine art. The Monastery is also home to a rare manuscript library and many valuable religious artifacts.

The Ihlara Valley

Located in the region of Cappadocia, the Ihlara Valley is a natural wonder known for its impressive rock formations, steep cliffs, and the Melendiz River that flows through it. The valley is over 100 meters deep and 14 kilometers long, making it one of the largest canyons in the world.

The Ihlara Valley is also home to 105 rock-cut churches and chapels that date back to the 6th to the 13th century. The churches are decorated with spectacular murals depicting scenes from the lives of Jesus and Mary.

The Hattusa

Located near the town of Bogazkale, Hattusa is the capital of the ancient Hittite Kingdom that ruled the region from the 17th to the 12th century BCE. The city was abandoned around 1200 BCE and was rediscovered in the early 20th century.

The city is home to some remarkable archeological sites including the Great Temple, the Lion Gate, and the King’s Gate. The city’s most significant feature is the vast array of cuneiform inscriptions on its walls, which contain stories of the Hittite people and their rulers.

The Mount Nemrut

Located in southeastern Turkey, Mount Nemrut is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its massive stone heads and sculptures of the gods that were created by the ancient king Antiochos I around 200 BCE.

The summit of the mountain is home to a stunning sunrise and sunset that attracts tourists from all over the world. It is also said that the divine power of the gods can be felt by those who climb the mountain.

The Ani

The Ani is an abandoned medieval city located on the Turkish-Armenian border. The city was once the capital of a powerful Armenian kingdom in the 10th and 11th century and is considered to be one of the most significant cultural treasures of the country.

The city is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the world, including the Cathedral of Ani, the Church of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, and the Church of Holy Redeemer. The city is also home to some valuable artifacts, including book manuscripts, coins, and jewelry.

FAQs

What is the Sumela Monastery?

The Sumela Monastery is a 1,600-year-old Greek Orthodox Monastery located in the Macka district of the Trabzon province. The Monastery is carved into the cliffs of the Altındere National Park and overlooks a breathtakingly beautiful valley.

What is the Ihlara Valley?

The Ihlara Valley is a natural wonder located in the region of Cappadocia. The valley is over 100 meters deep and 14 kilometers long, making it one of the largest canyons in the world. It is also home to 105 rock-cut churches and chapels that date back to the 6th to the 13th century.

What is Hattusa?

Hattusa is the capital of the ancient Hittite Kingdom that ruled the region from the 17th to the 12th century BCE. The city was abandoned around 1200 BCE and was rediscovered in the early 20th century.

What is Mount Nemrut?

Mount Nemrut is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southeastern Turkey. It is known for its massive stone heads and sculptures of the gods that were created by the ancient king Antiochos I around 200 BCE.

What is the Ani?

The Ani is an abandoned medieval city located on the Turkish-Armenian border. The city was once the capital of a powerful Armenian kingdom in the 10th and 11th century and is considered to be one of the most significant cultural treasures of the country.