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A Journey Through Turkey’s Ancient Civilizations

Turkey, known as the cradle of civilizations, is indeed a paradise for all the history aficionados. Tapping from ancient ruins to thriving cultural vibrancy, the nation’s history is certainly a riveting one. Venture back in time and relive the moments as Turkey’s ancient civilizations pulled your strings in one of the world’s most dramatic locations. Whichever class you list yourself in, be it a passionate historian or an inquisitive traveler, monuments of ancient Turkey are an indelible sight.

Göbeklitepe: Discover the Cradle of Civilization

The history of Turkey can be traced back to the first emergence of civilization. The megalithic complex of Göbeklitepe is the most ancient temple complex known to mankind contemporaneously built over 12000 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for anyone interested in understanding humanity’s early days.

Hittites: The Forgotten Empire

The Hittite empire was one of the ancient kingdoms that was centered in Anatolia and utilized Hattusa as its capital. Lovers of archeology will be thrilled by Hatussa’s charms and stunning glimpses of artifacts, and rustling city walls along with ceremonial gates that show of their creativity. Also, the Yazılıkaya rock sanctuary that is in close proximity serves as a site for the Hittites’ unique religious practices.

Ephesus: A Testament to Roman Grandeur

Among the most visited archaeological areas in today’s Turkey, Ephesus was a center of trade and art in antiquity, during the Roman Empire. Walk through its marble streets, check out the stunning Library of Celsus, and head toward the Great Theater, which used to seat around 25,000 people.

Cappadocia’s Underground Cities

While enjoying the fairy-tale scenery of Cappadocia, don’t forget that somewhere really deep under the ground, there are older structures in the form of the cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı. These places could once fit thousands of people in them and are intriguing in perspective of ancient life during war duration.

Troy: Myth Meets History

The city of Troy, made popular by Homer’s Iliad, exists in history in a period of war. Explore the archaeological site to understand better the time and other empires which had their parts on the site in such as the stunning constructed Trojan Horse.

Pamukkale, Hierapolis.

Become few people who have the opportunity to see both of these sites and enjoy their pristine beauty and antiquity: Pamukkale and Hierapolis. Pamukkale travertine formation of white cotton has long been treated as a unique creation of nature and a purpose of visit. Ancient township of Hierapolis has been withstanding through centuries with its remains like necropolis, hypogeum and theater.

The ancient civilizations in Turkey cannot be expressed as left over of the past; these are the stepping stones for the evolution in mankind. The cotton-white travertine terraces of Pamukkale have been attracting visitors for centuries, while the ancient city of Hierapolis offers impressive ruins, including a necropolis and a theater.