Top Attractions In Turkey
Turkey is officially known as the Republic of Turkey. It is basically a Eurasian country that extends from the Anatolian peninsula in Western Asia and Thrace (Rumelia) in southeastern Europe's Balkan region. This secular and democratic country is visited by thousands of tourists every year. In fact there are a whole lot of attractions in Turkey ranging from places of historical importance to the ones famous for their natural scenic beauty. Turkey also has a highly refreshing entertainment scenario. All these things make Turkey an alluring holiday destination for people from all over the world. No wonder, tourism industry is highly developed in the country, with hotels and travel agencies available in plenty.
What are the top attractions in Turkey?
• St. Sophia Museum: - Haghia Sophia Musem, built in 6th century AD by Justinian is a magnificent masterpiece of Byzantine art. Originally it was the biggest church in the area. The church had been ransacked in 1204 by the Latins resulting in its treasures being moved to the west. When Istanbul was captured by the Ottoman Sultan, Mehmet II in the year 1453, it was transformed into a mosque. On account of Ataturk's order, it became a museum in 1936. The interiors are adorned with unique Byzantine mosaics of the 6th to 13th century period.
• Blue Mosque - Sultan Ahmet Camii - Istanbul: - This is one of the most wonderful mosques in the world with the interiors done up in blue color tiles. It was constructed by Mehmet Aga in 1616 who was a student of Sinan, one of the greatest architects.
• Ephesus: - This ancient city is the home to many well preserved old wonders of architecture. The city's history dates back to 12 BC. Some of the important landmarks of the city include Temple of Artemis, Seven Churches of Revelation, Odeon, Celcus Library, Commercial Agora, Great Theater, Scholistica baths and Blue Marble Street.
• Pamukkale Cotton Castle: - Pamukkale houses one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. The unique geological formation dates back to 14,000 years. The spring water is supposed to possess therapeutic properties, known to cure rheumatism, heart, and kidney diseases.
• Hierapolis: - This is a holy city which dates back to 6th century BC. It is famous for numerous ruins covering an extensive area. A few of the highlights include Temple of Apollo, The theater, Colonnaded Street, Byzantine Gate, and Necropolis cemetery.
• Cappadocia Region: - This is a high plateau situated in central Turkey. This region is also important in Christian history for the existence of 600 rock - cut churches constructed by hermits living here during the 4th and 11th centuries.
• Sardis Ruins: - Sardis was the capital city of the Kingdom of Lydia. The Lydians, during the 7th century BC were responsible for inventing the earliest coinage in history. The Roman Gymnasium complex is one of the important highlights of the place.
• Some of the other attractions in Turkey include the National Park called Gallipoli Anzacs, Mount Nemrut, and the ancient cities of Aspendus and Pergamum.