“Meat in a dessert?” Yes, tavukgöğsü! The answer to this question comes from the famous gourmet of ancient Rome, Marcus Gavius Apicius. In his cookbook, known in short as De re Coquinaria and in full as De Opsoniis et Condimentis sive de re Culinaria Libri Decem, attributed to Apicius who is believed to have lived in the 1st century BC, …
Who Were the Tülütabaklar? Tülütabaklar were local heroes in Balıkesir during the Turkish War of Independence. These brave leatherworkers -called debbağ in Turkish- used fear and theatrical performance to disrupt Greek occupation forces and support underground national meetings. Clad in goat or sheepskin, soot, horse tails, bells, and sticks, they frightened enemy soldiers, creating an atmosphere of psychological resistance. Etymology: …
The Temple of Artemis (Greek: Artemision; Latin: Artemisium) is also known as the Temple of Diana. Dedicated to the goddess Artemis, the temple was completed around 550 BCE in Ephesus. The temple was built entirely of marble. Today, only a few marble fragments remain from the temple, which was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The …
Türkiye is home to countless archaeological sites from different historical periods. While some sites like Ephesus, Göbeklitepe, and Hierapolis are widely known, other ancient cities in Türkiye remain relatively obscure despite their incredible beauty and historical significance. Below, we present a list of these lesser-known archaeological treasures, hoping that one day, you too will explore these hidden paradises. 1. Termessos …
Fore those who intend to visit Turkey soon, here is the applicable visa rules for nations visiting Turkey (August 2025): The Electronic Visa (e-Visa) Application System was launched on 17 April 2013 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye. This system allows visitors travelling to Türkiye to easily obtain their e-Visas online (www.evisa.gov.tr), in approximately three …
According to Greek mythology, Medusa, one of the three female monsters known as the Gorgons, is the only mortal among them. Medusa and her sisters, Euryale and Stheno, have live snakes instead of hair and possess the terrifying power to turn anyone who gazes into their eyes to stone. There are several different versions of Medusa’s story found in mythology. …
Mersin, with its geographical location as well as its historical and natural sites, offers a wide range of destinations worth visiting. Among its many attractions like Kızkalesi (Maiden’s Castle), Heaven and Hell Sinkholes, Alahan Monastery, Adamkayalar, and the ancient city of Anemurium. Now, let’s move on to another myth of Mersin… This one comes from Tarsus, a district of Mersin, and …
Rising 2,150 meters above sea level in the Kahta district of Adıyaman, Turkey, Mount Nemrut may not be the tallest peak in the region; but it stands among the most significant archaeological and cultural landmarks in the world. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987, Mount Nemrut is home to colossal sculptures and stone terraces that date back …
Gölyazı Village, nestled on the shores of Lake Uluabat in Bursa, Turkey, is an enchanting destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, deep historical roots, and tranquil village atmosphere. Recognized by the Association of Japanese Travel Agencies as one of Europe’s 30 most beautiful towns, Gölyazı blends Ottoman-era charm with ancient Roman heritage, making it a must-visit spot for travelers …
Anatolia, a region shaped by civilizations dating back to the dawn of humanity, is a cultural melting pot. Among the many legacies embedded in its rich heritage, the influence of Byzantine (Eastern Roman) music on Classical Turkish Music; particularly the tradition that evolved during the Ottoman era; remains a subject of both academic debate and musical fascination. Despite nationalist arguments that …