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A 3-Day Culinary Route: Gaziantep-Şanlıurfa-Diyarbakır

Southeastern Culinary Route - Go Türkiye

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Gaziantep stands as a global gastronomic capital, rich with centuries of culinary heritage. At dawn, the city is embraced by the warm, inviting aroma of katmer, a delicate filo pastry filled with pistachios, sugar, and rich kaymak. Then, you can visit the Gaziantep Culinary Museum, a treasure trove of historic cooking tools and captivating displays that vividly showcase the essence of traditional dishes such as baklava and stuffed vegetables, safeguarding the culinary wisdom handed down through the ages. Experience the rich Ottoman heritage of Gaziantep through Ali Nazik, a sophisticated dish featuring succulent grilled lamb atop a velvety layer of creamy yoghurt and a smoky aubergine puree. End your day with Tahmis Kahvesi, a caf&eacute; that delights both locals and tourists with its freshly brewed Turkish coffee, fostering vibrant everyday conversations.

Gaziantep: Taste and Heritage
 
 Meet Gaziantep: one of Türkiye’s Cuisine Stars
 
 Gaziantep, in south-eastern Türkiye, is a city where history and cuisine come together to create an unforgettable experience. Gaziantep is listed in UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network for cuisine. From ancient heritage sites to bustling bazaars filled with the aroma of spices and sweets, Gaziantep invites you to a sensory journey through Anatolia.
 
 Visit Gaziantep’s Historical and Cultural Landmarks
 
 Gaziantep’s historical importance is visible in its landmarks:
 
 Gaziantep Castle: Standing in the city centre, this ancient castle has been watching over Gaziantep since Roman times. Now it houses the Museum of Gaziantep Defense And Heroism Panoroma, which tells the city’s history and resilience.
 
 Zeugma Mosaic Museum: Home to one of the world’s largest mosaic collections, this museum shows off Roman mosaics unearthed from the ancient city of Zeugma. The “Gypsy Girl” mosaic may attract you with its details a lot.
 
 Emine Göğüş Culinary Museum: As the first culinary museum in Türkiye, it gives a fascinating insight into Gaziantep’s culinary traditions, with exhibits on local dishes, cooking utensils and customs.
 
 Bakırcılar Çarşısı: Walk through this historic bazaar where artisans craft and sell copperware using traditional techniques. The bazaar is a vibrant hub of the city’s artisanal heritage.
 
 Taste Gaziantep: A Culinary Center
 
 Gaziantep’s cuisine is famous for its flavours and diversity:
 
 Baklava: Gaziantep is renowned for producing the best baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with pistachios and syrup. The city's baklava is so esteemed that it holds a protected status in the European Union.
 
 Antep Pistachios: These are so tasty pistachios which are prized for their flavour and a key ingredient in many local dishes and desserts. 
 
 Kebabs: There are variety of kebabs unique to Gaziantep, such as Ali Nazik Kebab, grilled aubergine purée topped with minced meat and Simit Kebab, made with bulgur wheat and minced meat.
 
 Yuvarlama/Yuvalama: A festival dish consisting of tiny meat and rice balls in yoghurt sauce, a reflection of the city’s culinary heritage.
 
 Katmer: A pastry made of thin layers of dough, filled with pistachios and clotted cream, often eaten for breakfast.
 
 Visit Gaziantep’s Bazaars and Artisan Crafts
 
 The city’s bazaars are a sensory feast and a glimpse into daily life:
 
 Zincirli Bedesten and Kemikli Bedesten: Historic covered markets where you can buy spices, textiles, jewellery and traditional crafts. The stalls and displays are fascinating.
 
 Artisan Workshops: See local artisans making yemeni (traditional handmade leather shoes), silverware and mother-of-pearl inlay work. Watching these craftsmen at work shows the city’s commitment to preserving traditional skills.
 
 Gaziantep’s Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
 
 Beyond the urban attractions:
 
 Dülükbaba Forest: A big area for picnics, hiking and nature. Forest is away from the noise of the city.
 
 Rumkale: Located on the banks of Euphrates River, historic fortress with stunning views and boat tours. Area is rich in history and for photography and exploration.
 
 Yesemek Open Air Museum: Visit this ancient stone quarry and sculpture workshop from Hittite period, unfinished statues and see how they made art in the old days.
 
 Gaziantep’s Cultural Festivals and Events
 
 Gaziantep’s culture is celebrated in many festivals:
 
 Gaziantep Pistachio Festival: Annual festival for the harvest of Antep pistachio with concerts, exhibitions and culinary events.
 
 International Gaziantep Gastronomy Festival (GastroAntep): Culinary event for chefs, food lovers and visitors from around the world to celebrate and discover the city’s gastronomic heritage.
 
 Why Visit Gaziantep
 
 Gaziantep is a city where history, culture and gastronomy meet. Whether you are looking at ancient mosaics, eating world famous cuisine or exploring busy bazaars, Gaziantep offers a rich and authentic experience into one of the centers of southern Türkiye. The city’s warm hospitality and vivid atmosphere makes it a must visit for anyone who wants to get into Turkish culture.
 
 From its cuisine and historical attractions to its handcrafts and natural beauty, Gaziantep invites you to discover the flavours and heritage that makes it unique. Plan your visit to Gaziantep and enjoy the sensory experience that may stay in you for a lifetime.

Established in 2008 in Gaziantep, the Emine Göğüş Culinary Museum stands as Türkiye's inaugural institution dedicated to the culinary arts. At this museum, one can gain insight into the region's food traditions and take part in cookery lessons.

Şanlıurfa, a city steeped in history and rich in gastronomic delights, offers a vibrant and traditional experience. Start your day at G&ouml;beklitepe, a proud resident of the UNESCO World Heritage list, the world's oldest monumental site. Mornings in Şanlıurfa start with ciğer (crisp fried liver), and don&rsquo;t get it twisted; this is a longstanding tradition in Şanlıurfa. Locals and tourists alike gather in the bustling bazaars, sampling traditional foods and haggling over handmade crafts. The city's beautiful environs produce eggplants for Patlıcanlı Kebap, a perfect choice for dinner. After your meal, Menengi&ccedil; coffee, with its earthy smell and pistachio notes, invites casual conversations across countries. Try the regional favourite Şıllık Tatlısı (walnut crepes) with your coffee. End your day with Menengi&ccedil; and Şıllık for a true taste of Şanlıurfa.

Finding Göbeklitepe, the world's oldest known monumental structure, completely changed what we understood about hunter-gatherers, our very old ancestors. Before this, we thought they were groups who moved from place to place, settling down only when they found enough animals to hunt and plants to gather, living in small communities. But Göbeklitepe showed they were actually well-organised socially; they could come together for a belief or a shared goal. They even managed to put up Göbeklitepe’s T-shaped stone pillars, which had carved animal pictures, showed incredible craftsmanship, weighed up to 15 tons, and built a spiritual or gathering centre for themselves. This was at a time when there were no mines, agriculture, engineering, or even writing.
Göbeklitepe has multiple round structures, which weren't used for living, but solely for religious rituals. So far, six of these structures have been uncovered, and they feature T-shaped pillars up to 6 meters tall, all with similar shapes. When you consider other structures that are known but not yet dug up, it makes you think this area was a major religious hub during the Neolithic Age. In this sense, it might be seen not just as the oldest, but also the largest religious centre of its time in the world. Since metal tools didn't exist then, it's thought that all the pillars making up these structures were carved using harder, polished stones. Certain animal shapes and figures were engraved on them, some even shown in 3D. These are the oldest sculptures in the world, making them humanity's oldest artworks. Göbeklitepe was added to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List in 2018, becoming Türkiye's 18th UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Area. If you want to learn much more about this fascinating 12,000-year-old history and feel the power of faith, then Göbeklitepe is waiting for you.


Şanlıurfa: A Trip Through Time, Faith and Culture
 
 Located in southeastern Türkiye, Şanlıurfa is one of the country’s most historical and cultural cities. Known as the City of Prophets, this ancient city has been home to many civilizations, religious figures and important historical events. From its well-preserved archaeological sites to its vibrant traditions, Şanlıurfa offers visitors a journey through time where history, faith and culture blend.
 
 Why is Şanlıurfa called the City of Prophets?
 
 Şanlıurfa is a city known with religious heritage. It’s believed to be the birthplace of Prophet Abraham, a figure in Judaism, Christianity and Islam. According to some rumours or tellings, Prophet Job (Eyyub) also lived in the region and endured his trials here. Some also associate the city with stories from Noah’s Ark.
 
 This rich religious history makes Şanlıurfa not just a place to visit but a destination where people come to reflect on faith and history. The city’s landmarks, centuries-old mosques and vibrant cultural traditions make it like a living museum where the past continues to shape the present.
 
 Discover the Historical Treasures of Şanlıurfa
 
 Göbeklitepe – Known as The Oldest Monumental Structure in the World
 
 One of the most interesting places in Şanlıurfa is Göbeklitepe, often referred to as the “zero point of history”. Dating back to approximately 9600 BCE, this is the oldest known temple complex in the world, predating Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids.
 
 The massive T-shaped stone pillars, intricately carved with animals and symbols, show a time when hunter-gatherer societies gathered for communal rituals. The advanced construction techniques, done without metal tools or the wheel, continue to puzzle researchers.
 
 In 2018, UNESCO recognized Göbeklitepe as a World Heritage Site, cementing its place as one of humanity’s greatest discoveries. Visitors to this amazing site can walk among the ruins and discover the early architecture, art and spirituality.
 
 Şanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museums
 
 To delve deeper into the city’s historical and artistic heritage, a visit to the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum is a must. As the largest museum complex in Türkiye, it houses artefacts from prehistoric times to the Roman and medieval periods.
 
 Highlights include:The Şanlıurfa Man, the oldest known life-sized statue in the world.
 
 A reconstructed temple from Göbeklitepe to see the original size of the site.
 
 Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum, with Roman mosaics including an Amazon warrior, a unique find in ancient art.
 
 These museums give you an impressing picture into the history and development of Şanlıurfa, so can be considered as a must-see for history buffs.
 
 Balıklıgöl – The Fish Lake
 
 One of the most famous sites in Şanlıurfa is Balıklıgöl, or the Fish Lake. According to the narrative, King Nimrod ordered Prophet Abraham to be thrown into the fire. Instead of burning, the fire turned into water and the firewood turned into fish. 
 
 Around the lake:
 
 Halil-ür Rahman Mosque, a historic mosque.
 
 Ayn Zeliha Lake, named after King Nimrod’s daughter who accepted Abraham’s message.
 
 This place can be considered as contemplative.
 
 Şanlıurfa Castle – A Look into the City’s History
 
 Located on a hill top, Şanlıurfa Castle has a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. Some scholars believe it dates back to 10,000 BCE, although the current structure was built during the Abbasid Caliphate (9th century CE).
 
 One of the most interesting things about the castle is the two Corinthian columns which according to local narrative were part of the catapult used to throw Prophet Abraham into the fire. The rock-cut tombs at the foot of the fortress are another evidence of the region’s rich history.
 
 
 Some Sites in Şanlıurfa
 
 Eyyub’s Tomb
 
 Şanlıurfa is also told as home to Eyyub’s tomb, a revered figure known for his patience and faith. 
 
 Soğmatar – A Glance into Ancient Worship
 
 53 km from Şanlıurfa, Soğmatar was once a major religious centre of the Sabians who worshipped the sun, moon and planets. You can see:
 
 Rock-cut temples dedicated to celestial gods.
 
 Ancient Syriac inscriptions.
 
 Soğmatar is a unique blend of astronomy, religion and ancient culture, may be considered as a must visit for those who are interested in early spiritual practices.
 
 
 Natural and Architectural Wonders of Şanlıurfa
 
 Harran – The Cradle of Civilisation 
 
 Harran Plain is told as where agriculture and settled life started. Home to one of the oldest universities in the world, this region has:
 
 Beehive houses, built using traditional method to keep the natural insulation.
 
 Ancient city walls, remains of a big city.
 
 Historic mosques and medreses where scholars studied astronomy, math and philosophy.
 
 
 Halfeti – The Sunken City of the Euphrates
 
 Partially submerged by the Birecik Dam, Halfeti is like a surreal experience as you explore the sunken ruins by boat. Landmarks include:
 
 Savaşan Village, with its half-submerged buildings.
 
 A minaret rising from the water, looking so beautiful.
 
 Black Roses (Karagül), a rare flower that grows in Halfeti’s soil.
 
 A boat ride along the Euphrates River in Halfeti is history, nature and photography.
 
 
 Cultural Traditions and Local Heritage
 
 Sıra Gecesi – A Night of Music, Food and Tradition
 
 One of the most popular cultural experiences in Şanlıurfa is sıra gecesi, a traditional gathering that you may join:
 
 Live Turkish folk music with bağlama and oud.
 
 Çiğköfte, raw meat, bulgur and isot (local pepper).
 
 These events show the hospitality and communal traditions of the people of Şanlıurfa.
 
 
 The Copper Craftsmanship of Şanlıurfa
 
 Şanlıurfa is famous for its copper artisans who make:
 
 Intricate cookware and trays.
 
 Engraved decorative items, passed down through generations.
 
 You can visit Bakırcılar Çarşısı, the old bazaar where you can watch artisans at work and buy unique handcrafted souvenirs.
 
 
 Culinary Delights of Şanlıurfa
 
 The Urfa Flavours
 
 The city’s cuisine is influenced by its Eastern Mediterranean and Mesopotamian roots. 
 
 You may try:
 
 Lahmacun, thin crispy flatbread topped with minced meat and spices.
 
 Tirit, lamb, yoghurt and broth-soaked flatbread.
 
 And mırra, strong bitter coffee brewed for hours and served in small cups without handles.
 
 Plan Your Trip to Şanlıurfa
 
 Şanlıurfa is not just a historical destination – it’s like a gateway to ancient civilisations, religious heritage and vibrant cultures. Whether you are marvelling at the stones of Göbeklitepe, feeding the fish of Balıklıgöl or enjoying sıra gecesi, the city may be an immersive experience.
 
 So if you are interested, why not check your schedule right now and book a ticket to Türkiye? There are so many places to experience!

Steeped in history and bursting with culinary delights, visitors are captivated by the enticing smoky scents of Ciğer Kebabı in Dağkapı. This expertly grilled lamb liver, infused with cumin, sumac, and chilli flakes, is perfectly complemented by freshly baked lavaş bread and crisp vegetables. Strolling beneath the stone arches of Hasan Paşa Caravanserai, visitors are immersed in lively markets and traditional tunes. Then, visit the stunning Grand Mosque, a Seljuk gem that serves as both a spiritual haven and a community hub. Don&rsquo;t forget to visit the magnificent Diyarbakır Fortress and Hevsel Gardens that proudly reside on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Grand Mosque (Ulucami), one of the oldest mosques in Anatolia, is the largest and most famous of the city’s historical mosques. Allegedly the structure – a church before the conquest of Diyarbakır by the Companions in 639, a synagogue before that, and a temple to a sun god even earlier – was built during the time of Moses. The Grand Mosque contains the masjid belonging to the Hanafi, Shafi, Maliki and Hanbali sects; its walls bear 38 inscriptions. In the courtyard is the sundial built by Al-Jazari. There is also a Roman era underground cistern, the Mesudiye and the Zinciriye Madrasa (Mesudiye ve Zinciriye Medresesi). This large complex in Diyarbakır, a city of science and culture, is a witness to the city’s history.

Hasan Paşa Caravanserai is a 16th-century Ottoman inn located opposite the Grand Mosque of Diyarbakır. Today, it houses cafés and artisan shops, reflecting the city’s rich architectural history.

Dağkapı is a historic quarter in central Diyarbakır, known as the main entrance to the old walled city. It serves as a vibrant hub of local life, culture, and trade.

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