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We know that Turkey is a great spot for a summer break, but did you know that it is home to no less than 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
Packed with history and cultural sites to see, Turkey is far more than its south-coast beaches and Istanbul’s nightlife.
If you want to visit the real Turkey, check out some of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Aphrodisias
In the southwest of Turkey, you’ll find Aphrodisias, dating back to the 3rd century BC. This is a huge archaeological site that is home to the beautiful Temple of Aphrodite. Aphrodisias was a large city back in the day and at the time, it was pretty bustling. To this day, you’ll be able to see ruins of bath complexes, temples, and a theatre.
Historic Areas Of Istanbul
Much of Istanbul is steeped in history, but several sections are UNESCO named. Most notably, the Golden Horn, located on the Bosphorus and encompassing Hagia Sofia, dating back to the 6th century, and the Hippodrome of Constantine, to name just two.
Archaeological Site Of Ani
Ani is pretty difficult to get to unless you’re a keen explorer but you should certainly put it on your bucket list. Ani is an ancient city that dates back to the 10th and 11th centuries. It is located on a huge ravine that overlooks Armenia.
At the time, it was the capital of the Armenian Kingdom and money flowed in thanks to its proximity to the Silk Road trade route. The city began to decline in 1319, thanks to a huge earthquake and an invasion from the Mongols.
Arslantepe Mound
Arslantepe is a large archaeological site that is located close to Malatya, in the eastern-central part of the country. Evidence from the site shows residents as far back as the 6th century BC, going as far up to the medieval era. There are also early Bronze Age artefacts in the site and a huge Royal Tomb complex.
Archaeological Site Of Troy
Yes, Troy is actually in modern-day Turkey! With more than 4000 years of history to its name, Troy is one of the most popular spots to visit. It is located in the far north-west of the country, close to Canakkale.
The story of Troy has been told time and time again, both on TV shows and in Hollywood blockbusters. The site attracts visitors from all over the world, with remains that are still extremely significant.
Bursa And Cumalikizik – Birth Of The Ottoman Empire
Bursa is a large city in the north-west of the country, close to Istanbul. It is also city that is connected very heavily with the early beginnings of the Ottoman Empire and the UNESCO listing is connected to eight different sites across the city and the nearby village of Cumalikizik. All sites show evidence during the 14th century and the establishment of the Ottomans.
Nemrut Dag
Numrut Dag, better known as Mount Nemrut is located close to Adiyaman in south-east Turkey. Here you can find the mausoleum of Antiochus who was the ruler of Commagene, a former kingdom in the area after the era of Alexander. Dating back to the Hellenistic period, the mysterious large statues still stand proud today and are thought to be a 1st century BC royal tomb.
City Of Safranbolu
The ancient city of Safranbolu dates back to the 13th century and is located close to Karabuk, in the Black Sea region. Safranbolu was an important stop on the trade route from east to west and is also home to several notable buildings, including the Old Mosque and the Old Bath.
Diyarbakir Fortress And Hevsel Gardens Cultural Landscape
The city of Diyarbakir is located in south-east turkey, along the Upper Tigris River. The city is surrounded by walls and a huge fortress which span a huge 5.8km in length. They’re dotted with many towers, gates, and inscriptions. The area around Diyarbakir city also dates back to the Hellenistic period and many important archaeological finds have been discovered.
Ephesus
Located in the town of Selcuk, close to Izmir, Ephesus is not only a very popular tourist attraction, but an extremely important archeological site in the country. With evidence of Hellenistic and Roman settlements, the site used to be an extremely busy and important city with excavations showing huge finds. The Great Theatre and the Temple of Artemis are notable mentions. The House of the Virgin Mary is also part of the complex, although a short distance away.
Gobekli Tepe
Located close to Sanliurfa in the south-east of the country, Gobekli Type is a huge Neolithic archaeological site dating back to around 8000BCE. The site is home to a huge circular structure that are held up by pillars of stone. These are also known to be the oldest megaliths in the world.
Great And Hospital Of Divrigi
Close to Sivas you will find the Great Mosque and Hospital of Divrigi. This dates back to the 11th century. The mosque has a large hospital adjoining it. The architecture of the mosque in particular is notable and special, with creative decoration. It is considered a notable piece of Islamic architecture.
Hattusha – The Hittite Capital
Hattusha is a large archaeological site located near to Bogazcale, in the Black Sea region. It is the former capital of the Hittite Empire and has many very well preserved ruins, including fortifications and temples. The Lion’s Gate and Royal Gate are two notable points.
Neolithic Site Of Catalhoyuk
In Konya, you will find the site of Catalhoyuk, dating back to Neolithic times. This is a remarkable archaeological site that sits in-between two hills. Evidence of occupation dating back to around 6200BC have found wall paintings and sculptures. This fascinating site shows life before the times we can even fathom, and further excavation continues.
Pergamon And It’s Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape
In Izmir Province you will find Pergamon, an archaeological site that sits high up on the hillside. The Acropolis of Pergamon was thought to be the capital of the Hellenistic Attalid and there are many temples and old ruins to explore. The Kybele Sanctuary is also part of this site, as well as old burial centres and plenty of evidence that points back to different eras, including Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman.
Selimye Mosque And It’s Social Complex
Located in Edirne in the north-west corner of Turkey, Selimye Mosque is a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture. It is the work of Sinan, one of the most decorated architects of his time. Edirne used to be the capital of the Ottoman Empire and this piece of work dates back to the 16th century. The surrounding complex is also fascinating, with a religious school, market, and library.
Xanthos-Letoon
Xanthos is a stunning archaeological site located in Kinik, Antalya Province. It dates back to Lycian times and was once the capital of Lycia overall. The art and inscriptions are very clear to see and this is a spot that has proven very useful in helping us to learn more about the language of the Lycian people.
Goreme National Park And The Rock Sites Of Cappadocia
You will no doubt have seen Goreme National Park countless times online and on TV. This is the place which the famous hot air balloons fly over in Cappadocia. With huge and unusual rock formations, this part is considered a geological wonder. Cappadocia itself is included on the list, with cave buildings and evidence of habitation by humans dating back to the 4th century.
Hierapolis-Pamukkale
Close to Denizli, Pamukkale is a famous area for hot springs that are located 200m high on a large calcite cliff. The landscape is called “cotton palace” and that is because of the white ledges that make it so famous, along with petrified waterfalls. There are also important ruins from Hierapolis in the area, with monuments and temples to be explored.
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