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Nevşehir

Muğla

<p>Travelling in a 4x4 through the spectacular otherworldly region of Cappadocia, I visited rock carved settlements to understand how communities lived and used this remarkable landscape for centuries. Kaymaklı is a feat of engineering with 100 tunnels over 8 floors, cleverly designed to accommodate thousands of people.</p>

Türkiye Travel Notebook

Experience Nevşehir's Classic Elegance
Nevşehir Overview
Nevşehir, a city in central Türkiye, exemplifies everything that Anatolia has to offer: a rich history, a place of worship, stunning natural scenery, lush soil, and delicious regional food. Several civilisations have called this city home over the years, beginning with the Hittites in 7,000 BC and continuing through the Assyrians, Persians, Romans, Seljuks, and Ottomans. Before the Seljuks conquered the area in the eleventh and twelfth century, the Eastern Roman Empire acknowledged Nevşehir and the Cappadocia region as important locations for early Christians. The province was given the names ""Nev"" (meaning new) and ""Şehir"" (meaning city) when the Ottoman Empire took control of these areas. This name reflects the province's distinctive combination of nostalgia and trendiness, as well as its history and future.
Nevşehir encompasses a sizable portion of Cappadocia, a region rich in history and magnificent landscapes. For history buffs, the Göreme Open-Air Museum—a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985—is a must-visit. The museum's rock-cut chapels, including the Dark Church and the Church of the Buckle, provide lifelike recreations of events from the Bible.
Nevşehir Attractions
When people think of travelling to the Cappadocia area, the first city that pops into their heads is Nevşehir. Volcanic eruptions from neighbouring mountains produced the area's distinctive landscape millions of years ago, depositing ash and lava that hardened into tuff, a soft rock. This tuff has been sculpted into chimneys, columns, hills resembling mushrooms, and cones by the erosion of wind and water. The indigenous inhabitants augmented the natural wonders by erecting dwellings, houses of worship, and even stables in the form of extraordinary cavern complexes carved out of the pliable rock. These artificial tube networks created whole towns in certain areas, with as much as eight stories of subterranean housing. The result was a plateau that was both urbanised and architecturally distinct, serving as a cultural landscape below ground.
Valley of Göreme and Open-Air Museum
In the totally erosion-shaped Göreme Valley and its environs, you may see rock-carved sanctuaries that showcase exceptional examples of post-iconoclastic Eastern Roman art. Additionally, the area is home to ancient subterranean civilisations, traditional human settlements, and cave homes. Göreme is a world heritage site because of the remarkable way its cultural and natural landscape features intertwine.
Cappadocia Rock Sites and Göreme National Park
Most people's mental pictures of Türkiye will include the ""fairy chimney"" rock formations at Göreme. Enchanting rock-carved chapels with exceptional Eastern Roman art may be found in the Göreme Valley, a region known for its beautiful ruined environment. Also found in the area are artefacts from human settlements that date back to the fourth century and ancient cave homes. The natural beauty and cultural harmony of Göreme's landscapes have brought it international fame.
Famous Chapels and Hills
The church known as Tokalı Kilise
Our Lady of Durmuş Kadir Cemetery
The church dedicated to Yusuf Koç
The Church of El Nazar Kilisesi
The hidden church is Saklı Kilise.
The Holy Mary Church, also known as Meryem Ana Kilisesi
The church known as Kılıçlar Kilisesi
The architectural elements and paintings of these cathedrals have maintained their vibrancy even after all these time.
A village in Mustafapaşa and Ürgüp
Ürgüp, which is situated 20 km east of Nevşehir, has churches such the Church of St. Theodore and Pancarlık Church, which are exquisitely adorned. Mustafapaşa, previously Sinasos, is a town renowned for its exquisite masonry and is located about six kilometres south of Ürgüp. Both the Gomeda Valley and the Church of St. Basil are important historical and religious sites that visitors should not miss.
Uçhisar is proud to
Uçhisar is a picturesque town that showcases the distinctive Cappadocian architecture; it is located about six miles from Nevşehir. From the Uçhisar Rock Castle, you may take in the spectacular scenery and snap some picture-perfect shots. The pigeon homes and 4-kilometer hiking track in Güvercinlik Valley, which has breathtaking vistas, are worth a visit once you've explored the city core.
Ivanos and Çavuşin
The village of Avanos, one of the first Cappadocian towns, has been a pottery hub since the Hittite time because to its famous red clay. In one of the local workshops, guests may see craftspeople at work and perhaps give it a go themselves. Not only is the Kızılçukur Valley a favourite place to watch the sunset, but the adjacent town of Çavuşin is worth a visit as well, thanks to its rock-cut houses.
The Underground Cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı
Numerous subterranean towns have been found in Cappadocia, and more are being unearthed all the time. Built during the time of the Romans and the Eastern Romans, these underground towns have places of worship and other cultural artefacts. There could have been thousands of people living in these cities when they were at their largest.
The Underground City of Kaymaklı
This city has a maze of tunnels and chambers excavated eight levels into the soil, situated inside the Kaymaklı Fortress. Living quarters, churches, and even tombs were located on higher floors, with stables on the first.
Derinkuyu Subterranean Metropolis
Derinkuyu is a seven-story structure with a maze of tunnels and chambers that takes its name from the deep water wells that supply it. The rooms and tunnels include storage spaces, chapels, refectories, wine cellars, and stables.
 Museum of Hacı Bektaş-ĵ Veli
Several Turkish-Islamic intellectuals settled in Anatolia after the spread of Islam. What is today called Hacıbektaş, a neighbourhood of Nevşehir, was the home of the Muslim mystic Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli in the thirteenth century. Because his guiding ideas mirrored those of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, his ideology was instrumental in bringing together different Anatolian Turkish tribes. A museum that is now on UNESCO's World Heritage Tentative List, the Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli complex has his tomb, a mosque, a guesthouse, a kitchen, a wish tree, and a section reserved for recluses. It is situated 45 km away from Nevşehir.
Museum in Nevşehir
Those curious in local culture may learn more about Nevşehir's history, both ancient and modern, at the Nevşehir Museum. Coins made of bronze, silver, or gold from the Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Iron, Archaic, Urartian, Hellenistic, Roman, Eastern Roman, Cypriot, and Mesopotamian periods are on display at the Archaeological Exhibition Hall.
Respected Customs
The Making of Silk
You get the incredible opportunity to see the making of silk up close and personal in Nevşehir. Fabrics made from the fragile and costly cocoons of tiny worms are the result of a long and laborious procedure.
Carpets Made of Wool
The organic colours and natural lamb's wool used to make Nevşehir's handmade woollen carpets famous. It takes a lot of time and effort to make these carpets, but the end result is worth it because of how beautiful they are.
Ceramics Crafts
Making your own pottery is something you may attempt if you're into crafts. Pottery from the Cappadocia area is world-renowned, and not just for its ornamental pieces but also for its practical cookware, vases, and other uses.
The thermal springs of Kozaklı
Worth visiting in Nevşehir are the Kozaklı Thermal Springs. In addition to helping with relaxation, the spa waters are good for aches and pains in the muscles and skeleton, as well as skin and gastrointestinal problems.
Delicious Nevşehir Cuisine
Beans with Testi Kebabı
One of the main reasons why clay pots are made in Nevşehir is so that tasty testi kebabı and beans may be cooked. Simmering food in conventional ovens for long periods of time imparts a smokiness and depth of taste.
Various Regional Delights
Soğanlama, ağpakla, gendirme, dıvıl, kayısı dolması, and ayva dolması are just a few of the mouthwatering delicacies offered by Nevşehir's cuisine.
Delicious and Healthful Desserts
Nevşehir is a must-visit destination for sugar enthusiasts. Indulge in some kabak tatlısı, köftür, dolaz, and pekmez using ingredients that are all-natural, sourced locally, and beneficial to your health.
The Perfect Nevşehir Tour for You
Marvel at the Fairy Chimneys as You Enjoy Your Breakfast
The fairy chimneys are most spectacular in the morning light from Nevşehir. As you take in the breathtaking scenery, fuel yourself on a typical Turkish breakfast.
Winery Exploration
Vine fruits, berries, apples, pears, quinces, and apricots thrive on Nevşehir's volcanic soil. Taking a tour of a vineyard, particularly at harvest time, is an unforgettable experience.
Discover Avanos, Mustafapaşa, Ürgüp, and Göreme by Wandering the Streets
The streets of Cappadocia will enthral anybody interested in history, religion, art, architecture, or distinct local cultures.
Indulge in Lunch Tasting Local Flavours
Testi kebabı and tandırda fasulye are some of the delicious regional delicacies you may enjoy in Nevşehir.
Hot air balloons are the key to conquering the landscape from above.
Take a hot air balloon ride above the ancient rock formations of Cappadocia at sunrise to really appreciate the region's breathtaking scenery.
Book a Room in a Historic Mansion or a Cave Hotel
You may choose from a range of lodging alternatives in Nevşehir, such as cave hotels and restored mediaeval homes.
Spend a Night in Türkiye
Participate in a Turkish night for a taste of the local entertainment scene, complete with traditional cuisine, dancing, and loud music.
Explore Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli
Visit Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli's tomb, complex, and museum to delve into the teachings of the renowned Turkish philosopher.
Arrive to Ortahisar Castle in Time for Sunset
The ideal way to end the day is with a sunset viewing from Ortahisar Castle, which is a hybrid of a castle and a fairy chimney.
Peruse the Handmade Markets in Your Area
Shop for tarhana and ceramics, among other handcrafted foods and gifts, at local workshops and marketplaces.

<p>Located in the heart of T&uuml;rkiye, Nevşehir is a city that embodies the full potential of Anatolia: a long history, a sanctuary of faith, breathtakingly unique landscapes, fertile lands, and a rich local cuisine. The city&rsquo;s history dates back to 7,000 BCE and has hosted various civilizations, including the Hittites, Phrygians, Assyrians, Persians, Romans, Seljuks, and Ottomans. The Nevşehir and Cappadocia region were significant centres for early Christians before being recognised by the Eastern Roman Empire and were later conquered by the Seljuks in the 11th and 12th centuries. When the Ottoman Empire established its rule in these lands, the province was named "Nev" (meaning new) and "Şehir" (meaning city), reflecting its unique blend of past and future, nostalgia and trendiness. Nevşehir covers a large part of Cappadocia, with its incredible natural beauty and history. The G&ouml;reme Open-Air Museum, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, is a significant location for history enthusiasts, offering vivid depictions of Biblical scenes in its rock-cut churches, most notably in the Dark Church and the Church of the Buckle. What to See in Nevşehir Nevşehir is the first city that comes to mind when travelers think of visiting the Cappadocia region. The area&rsquo;s unique geography has been shaped by natural events, with volcanic eruptions from nearby mountains millions of years ago covering the region in lava and thick ash, which eventually transformed into a type of soft rock called tuff. Over time, wind and water erosion carved this tuff into cones, columns, mushroom-shaped hills, and chimneys. The people who settled in the area contributed to nature&rsquo;s creations by carving incredible complexes of rooms and tunnels into the soft rock, creating living spaces, places of worship, and even stables. In some places, these man-made tunnel complexes formed entire cities that extended several layers (up to eight levels) underground, resulting in a plateau that became an urbanized yet uniquely architectured underground cultural landscape. G&ouml;reme Valley and Open-Air Museum The G&ouml;reme Valley and its surroundings, which are entirely formed by erosion, feature rock-carved sanctuaries that offer unique evidence of post-iconoclastic Eastern Roman art. The region also includes prehistoric cave dwellings, traditional human settlements, and underground cities. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, G&ouml;reme showcases an extraordinary blend of natural and cultural landscape elements. G&ouml;reme National Park and Cappadocia Rock Sites The "fairy chimney" rock formations of G&ouml;reme are among the most iconic images of T&uuml;rkiye. The G&ouml;reme Valley, with its breathtaking eroded landscape, offers rock-carved sanctuaries with unparalleled Eastern Roman art. Additionally, the region includes prehistoric cave dwellings and remains of human settlements from the 4th century. G&ouml;reme is renowned for its natural features and the harmonious combination of natural and cultural landscapes. Notable Churches and Valleys Tokalı Kilise (Church of the Buckle) Durmuş Kadir Kilisesi (Church of Durmuş Kadir) Yusuf Ko&ccedil; Kilisesi (Church of Yusuf Ko&ccedil;) El Nazar Kilisesi (Church of El Nazar) Saklı Kilise (Hidden Church) Meryem Ana Kilisesi (Church of the Virgin Mary) Kılı&ccedil;lar Kilisesi (Church of the Swords) These churches, with their architectural details and frescoes, remain as vibrant today as they were when they were first painted. &Uuml;rg&uuml;p and Mustafapaşa Village &Uuml;rg&uuml;p, located 20 km east of Nevşehir, is home to meticulously decorated churches such as the Church of St. Theodore and Pancarlık Church. Just six kilometers south of &Uuml;rg&uuml;p lies Mustafapaşa (formerly Sinasos), a town famous for its magnificent stonework. The Church of St. Basil and the Gomeda Valley are must-see destinations, offering a rich blend of history and religious significance. U&ccedil;hisar Situated just six kilometers from Nevşehir, U&ccedil;hisar is a charming village that exemplifies the unique architecture of Cappadocia. The U&ccedil;hisar Rock Castle offers a perfect spot for viewing the stunning landscapes and capturing breathtaking photographs. After exploring the city centre, your next stop should be G&uuml;vercinlik Valley, known for its pigeon houses and offering a 4-kilometer hiking trail with stunning views. Avanos and &Ccedil;avuşin Avanos, one of the oldest settlements in Cappadocia, is renowned for its distinctive red clay, which has made the town a center for pottery since the Hittite period. Visitors can observe artisans at work in one of the local workshops and even try their hand at creating their own piece. The nearby village of &Ccedil;avuşin, with its rock-cut dwellings, is also worth visiting, as is the Kızıl&ccedil;ukur Valley, a popular spot for watching the sunset. Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu Underground Cities Cappadocia is known for its numerous underground cities, with new ones still being discovered. These subterranean settlements, worked on during the Roman and Eastern Roman periods, include churches and other cultural and religious markers. At their peak, these cities could house thousands of people. Kaymaklı Underground City: Located within the depths of the Kaymaklı Fortress, this city features a labyrinth of tunnels and rooms carved eight layers deep into the earth. The first layer served as stables, with living quarters, churches, and even graves on the other levels. Derinkuyu Underground City: Derinkuyu, named after its deep water wells, features a complex network of tunnels and rooms spread across seven layers, including stables, wine cellars, refectories, churches, and storage areas. Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli Museum With the arrival of Islam, Anatolia became the home of several Turkish-Islamic thinkers. In the 13th century, the Turkish and Muslim mystic Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli settled in what is now known as Hacıbektaş, a district of Nevşehir. His philosophy played a crucial role in uniting various Turkish groups in Anatolia, and its core principles echoed the spirit and essence of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Hacı Bektaş-ı Veli complex, which includes his tomb, a mosque, guesthouse, kitchen, wish tree, and an area for recluses, is located 45 kilometers from Nevşehir and is currently a museum listed on UNESCO&rsquo;s World Heritage Tentative List. Nevşehir Museum For those interested in local culture, the Nevşehir Museum offers a comprehensive look at the city&rsquo;s distant and recent past. The Archaeological Exhibition Hall features artefacts from various periods, including the Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Bronze, Iron, Archaic, Urartian, Hellenistic, Roman, Eastern Roman, Cypriot, and Mesopotamian eras, as well as bronze, silver, and gold coins from these times. Time-Honoured Traditions Silk Production: In Nevşehir, you can witness the miraculous process of silk production. The cocoons of small worms undergo a lengthy and arduous process before being transformed into delicate and valuable fabrics. Woollen Carpets: Handmade woollen carpets from Nevşehir are renowned for their use of natural lamb&rsquo;s wool and organic dyes derived from nature. The intricate process of crafting these carpets is lengthy and labor-intensive, but the results are visually stunning. Pottery Art: If you&rsquo;re interested in crafts, you can try your hand at making your own pottery. The Cappadocia region is famous for its pottery art, with items ranging from decorative pieces to functional kitchenware and vases. Kozaklı Thermal Springs The Kozaklı Thermal Springs in Nevşehir are worth a visit. The spa waters are beneficial for muscle and skeletal disorders, skin and gastrointestinal issues, and general relaxation. Culinary Delights of Nevşehir Testi Kebabı and Beans: In Nevşehir, clay pots are crafted for a fundamental reason: to prepare delicious testi kebabı and beans. This type of cooking involves slow-cooking dishes in traditional ovens, giving them a smoky aroma and enhanced flavor. Other Local Dishes: Nevşehir&rsquo;s cuisine offers a variety of delicious dishes: soğanlama, ağpakla, gendirme, dıvıl, kayısı dolması, and ayva dolması, to name a few. Healthy Sweets: Sweet lovers will not be disappointed in Nevşehir. Treat yourself to kabak tatlısı, k&ouml;ft&uuml;r, dolaz, and pekmez, all made from local, natural, and healthy ingredients.</p>

<p>Muğla is a province rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its stunning coastline along the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas to its ancient ruins and charming villages, Muğla offers a diverse range of attractions for every traveler. Explore the vibrant bazaars, savor traditional Turkish cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. Muğla is a gateway to some of Türkiye's most beautiful and historic sites.</p>

<p>Muğla, a hidden paradise in T&uuml;rkiye, is a region where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet. It boasts turquoise waters, untouched bays, and a rich history spanning 8,000 years. Muğla is home to numerous civilizations, including the Carian, Lycian, Roman, Eastern Roman, Seljukian, the Menteshe Principality, and the Ottoman Empire. The region is home to several charming towns, each with its own charm and character.Bodrum is a vibrant coastal town that blends ancient history with modern luxury. It features the Bodrum Castle, Bodrum Marina, and chic restaurants and boutique shops. Fethiye is known for its natural beauty, ancient ruins, and crystal-clear waters. Marmaris is a hub for sailing and water sports, with its long promenade, cafes, restaurants, and shops. Dat&ccedil;a is a hidden gem known for its unspoiled nature, serene beaches, and charming old town. Akyaka is a quaint town known for its traditional Ula-style houses and natural beauty. G&ouml;cek is a yachting paradise with a prestigious marina and the Twelve Islands. Each town offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking luxury, history, or natural beauty in Muğla.Muğla is a city known for its rich cultural heritage, with several notable sites including the Muğla Culture House, Muğla Museum, Yağcılar Hanı, Saburhane Square, and traditional Muğla houses and chimneys. The G&uuml;m&uuml;şkesen Monumental Tomb, built in Milas, is a stunning example of ancient architecture, resembling the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. The Kurşunlu Mosque, built in 1493, is a significant Ottoman-era mosque with a large lead-covered dome. Yediler Monastery, one of the largest monastic complexes in the region, features chapels, a fortress, and frescoes depicting Christian history. Bodrum Castle, built in 1406, houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which features treasures like the Ser&ccedil;e Limanı shipwreck. The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was built by Mausolus, the ruler of Caria.Muğla is also known for its stunning beaches and hidden coves, such as &Ouml;l&uuml;deniz and Dat&ccedil;a. The Saklıkent Canyon, a natural wonder with towering cliffs and a cool river, is a popular spot for rafting, zip-lining, and hiking. Butterfly Valley, a designated natural conservation area, is home to over 80 species of butterflies. Kabak Bay offers untouched beauty for yoga enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers.Karabağlar Plateau, located 3 km from Muğla city centre, offers a cool respite from summer heat with its cold spring water, ancient plane trees, and lush fruit orchards. Sedir Island, also known as Cleopatra Island, is famous for its unique sand and ancient ruins, including a well-preserved theatre.The ancient city of İdyma, located in the northeast corner of the Gulf of G&ouml;kova, boasts a history of approximately 2,500 years. The ruins extend from G&ouml;kova village to the slopes of Mount Kıran, with the most well-preserved example being the monumental tomb at İnişdibi.The Majestic Aminthas Rock Tombs in Fethiye are among the most remarkable ancient sites in the region, with the most famous being the "King's Tomb." Kayak&ouml;y, an ancient town with a hauntingly beautiful history, is 8 km south of Fethiye and is a popular destination for visitors seeking to explore its quiet streets and learn about its past.İztuzu Beach, one of the last nesting grounds for the endangered Caretta caretta turtles, is a pristine stretch of sand known for its natural beauty and environmental significance. The beach is protected by strict conservation measures, including bans on artificial lighting and fires during the nesting season.Muğla is a region known for its Mediterranean cuisine, blending fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and Mediterranean influences. The region's cuisine features a variety of dishes, including &Ccedil;&ouml;kertme Kebabı, Bodrum Mantısı, Milas K&ouml;ftesi, and Muğla Ring. Fresh seafood is a staple, with dishes like grilled fish, octopus, and calamari. Vegetarian delights include Zeytinyağlı, stuffed eggplant, and Enginar. Meat specialities include &Ccedil;&ouml;kertme Kebabı and D&ouml;ş Dolması, with the latter being a local favorite. Muğla is also known for its rich marble heritage, particularly the renowned Mugla White, used in construction for thousands of years.Muğla offers a variety of attractions, including the medieval Bodrum Castle, the Lycian Way, boat tours, Kayak&ouml;y, and the sensory delight of the region's citrus groves and lavender fields. Visitors can explore the region's rich cultural heritage and enjoy the unique flavors of the Mediterranean.</p>

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<p>Travelling in a 4x4 through the spectacular otherworldly region of Cappadocia, I visited rock carved settlements to understand how communities lived and used this remarkable landscape for centuries. Kaymaklı is a feat of engineering with 100 tunnels over 8 floors, cleverly designed to accommodate thousands of people.</p>
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<p>Then we were taken to a brand new discovery - the incredible 11,000-year-old, stone-carved storyboard discovered in a cellar outside Şanlıurfa, in Southeastern T&uuml;rkiye. It is from a similar period to G&ouml;beklitepe. The stone carving shows a naked man being attacked by big cats and a charging bull. It was just discovered in a villager's cellar last year. It has never been filmed before, and not yet published. Extraordinary. It is the world&rsquo;s first storyboard.</p>
<p>We went on to explore Şanlıurfa, one of the most important pilgrimage cities of North Mesopotamia , believed to be the birthplace of Abraham.</p>
<p>According to that tradition, Abraham&rsquo;s mother was pregnant when King Nimrod was given a terrible prophecy by his stargazers that a boy child would destroy his Kingdom. Paranoid, the King had all pregnant woman brought to his palace. If they delivered a girl, they were allowed to go free. But if it was a boy, then that child was killed. So, to guard against this terrible fate, Abraham&rsquo;s mother hid in a cave and birthed her son safely. The cave Abraham is said to have been born in, around 4000 years ago, is now in a mosque in Şanlıurfa. The cave of Abraham is visited by people from all faiths.</p>
<p>Travelling by boat on the Euphrates, I then went to Zeugma, an ancient Roman frontier city submerged in the river. In Zeugma we were allowed access by the archaeology team to a newly restored Roman house, saved from flooding by the Zeugma dam project. Here in the women's quarters graffiti has been identified left by the Roman women (time of Hadrian/Trajan) seeking protection from invading Sassanians. The graffiti includes 'SPQR', a drawing of the women's husband (a camelarius) and an attacking Sassanian. The mosaics here are also of stellar quality, featuring the Muses and female heroines from history - these are women's quarters. It was so fascinating to see the heroine women they chose to decorate their floors. World-class quality.</p>
<p>Finally, at the crack of dawn, I hiked up to Mount Nemrut, the highest open-air museum in the world, discovering a giant 2000 -year- old mausoleum built for King Antiochus 1st. We haven't actually discovered Antiochus&rsquo; tomb yet &ndash; but his burial is almost certainly right inside the mountain. 9-metre-tall statues of Gods decorate the peak- a statement that Antiochus saw himself as a King aligned with the Gods. It is one of the most awesome sights in the world.</p>

Treasures of Türkiye: The Delights of the East

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<p>Boarding a traditional gulet yacht, I set sail along the coast of T&uuml;rkiye. At modern day Bodrum, ancient Halicarnassus, I uncovered the story of a remarkable ruling family from the 4th century BCE- the Hecatomnids.</p>
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<p>Mausolos of Halicarnassus built one of the Seven Wonders of the world - his own tomb, the original Mausoleum. But before that he built a beautiful, secret tomb for his dad, Hecatomnus. We were given exclusive access to this tomb of Hecatomnus, this was only discovered by chance when an organised crime gang were busted for having drilled through the bedrock to rob it in 2015. Archaeologists first went in in 2019, but it has not been shown to anyone else. This is an incredible scoop. Only restorers have been allowed in. It is a masterpiece from the ancient world. Mausolos himself is shown as a child and as a young man on the carvings.</p>
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<p>I loved returning to world-famous site of Troy to reveal how the tales of the Trojan War are rooted in reality. With the Director of Excavations at Troy we uncovered, on screen, the 4,500-year-old burnt mud-brick of the palace where Schliemann discovered the 'Jewels of Helen'. A palace burnt to the ground.</p>
<p>At the archaeological site of Patara I soaked up the atmosphere of the building with connections to the American constitution and discovered how the city was the hometown of St Nicholas &ndash; also known as Father Christmas. At ancient Myra, I met members of the excavation team who recently discovered one hundred intact figurines from the 2nd century BCE, from horsemen, women and children to gods and goddesses.</p>
<p>Finally, at Ephesus, one of the greatest cities of antiquity, I explored the cult of the goddess Artemis in public and private life. I got to walk through the newly restored private homes in Ephesus - with hot and cold running water and frescoes that rival Pompeii and revealed how the people of Ephesus took to the streets in the 1st century to protest against Christianity. But despite initial resistance to the new &ndash; Christian religion flourished in Ephesus. The city had a special connection to Jesus&rsquo; mother Mary who is said to have spent her final years nearby. The first church in the world to be dedicated to Mary stands here. And not only that but right here at the council of Ephesus in the 5th CE, Mary was declared &lsquo;theotokos&rsquo; the mother of God.</p>

Türkiye Travel Notebook

Treasures of Türkiye: The Delights of the East

Treasures of Türkiye - Sea and Secrets