Konya is one of Türkiye’s largest cities in terms of population and influence, driving the region in economic, political and social activity.
As the capital of the Seljuk Turks from the 12th to the 13th centuries, it is one of the Türkiye’s great cultural centers. Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi founded a Sufi order known in the West as the “Whirling Dervishes.”
Konya was one of the most important trading centers on the Silk Road and today, it is known for its agriculture and wealth of archaeology. Machine industry, automotive supply, metal casting, agricultural tools, food production, and shoemaking are the leading sectors in Konya.
Konya’s traditional handicrafts and folklore are a key part of its attraction as a tourism destination. Among the local products Konya offers are carpets, ceramics and especially tiles, calligraphic art, and handcrafted wooden spoons. Sema, folk dancing, and Sufi music are all also of interest.
There are 156 hotels in Konya, and seven of them have 5 stars. The congress center is a world-class infrastructure, with a ballroom covering 1,400 m² and 11 different sized meeting halls totaling 35,000 m² of indoor space.