Turkish sights. All sights of Turkey (223). Living History of the Byzantine Empire

Landmarks of Turkey. The most important and interesting sights of Turkish cities: photos and videos, descriptions and reviews, location, sites.

Türkiye is not only a magnificent coast, picturesque beaches and the enchanting gentle sea. In addition, this is a country whose small territory easily accommodates the richest heritage of different cultures and civilizations, their wisdom and beauty. Among the architectural, historical and natural sights of Turkey, even the most fastidious traveler will find something for himself that will not leave him indifferent and will win his heart forever.

The pearl of Turkey - Istanbul: a city that connected the seas, continents, eras and religions; a city that was the capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires; a metropolis outside of time and space, permeated with the breath of history and completely different cultures. Even a week is not enough to see the sights of Istanbul, because this whole city can be safely called a museum under open sky.

It is impossible to visit Turkey and not see the Hagia Sophia, which is now called the Hagia Sophia Museum, and over its more than a thousand-year history, managed to visit Orthodox church and a mosque. This incredible beauty a structure crowned with a gigantic dome resting on mighty tall columns decorated with ancient mosaics. Opposite the cathedral is the main mosque of Istanbul - the Blue Mosque (Sultan-Ahmed-Jani Mosque). A graceful building stretching into the sky with six minarets, a stunning monument of history and architecture, a symbol of the city.

No less famous is the huge Topkapi palace complex, which was once the residence of the sultans of the great Ottoman Empire, and today it is a museum that presents to the attention of visitors a rich collection of exhibits from ancient history, including porcelain, dishes, jewelry and much more.

Derinkuyu and Kaymakli are the largest and most famous underground cities Cappadocia. Ancient ventilation shafts still function there, and the tunnels and halls are well lit.

The ancient city of Ephesus is another of Turkey's favorite places for tourists. And this is not at all surprising, since this ancient city keeps traces of the ancient Greek and Roman eras. In Ephesus, which is now called Selçuk, there is a huge cemetery of gladiators, the library of Celsius, as well as one of the seven wonders of the world - the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, once the most beautiful building.

However, in many Turkish cities it seems that time has stopped: Troy, Olympos, Kaunos, Demre (Mira), Phaselis - all these ancient cities are full of fragments of history that have been preserved through centuries and millennia.

Not only humanity has created the amazing sights of Turkey with its own hands, nature has also done its best. One of the most famous natural sites in the country is the city of Pamukkale with its hot mineral springs thanks to which the landscape of this place is absolutely stunning. Caves in snow-white limestone walls, waterfalls and petrified pools - all this is now protected by UNESCO.

The one who finds himself in the Cappadocia valley has the impression that he has landed on another planet or in someone's incredible dream: volcanic eruptions, the effects of wind and rain have created landscapes here so unusual and beautiful that it takes your breath away.

The Turkish mountains are no less delightful: Nemrut with huge stone statues erected on its top; Tahtali, from which you can go down one of the largest cable cars in the world, enjoying stunning views; Yanartash, on the top of which you can see an incredible phenomenon: fiery fountains escaping to the surface of the earth.

Being the heiress of three great empires at once - the Hittite, Byzantine and Ottoman - Turkey carefully preserves the monuments of the past, emphasizing the continuity of the modern Turkish Republic in relation to these almost mythological civilizations. And to be convinced of this, it is necessary to make a trip to the ancient Turkish cities.

On a very conditional border between Europe and Asia, a country, surprisingly combining the features of two different cultures, is located - Turkey. State in modern form is an original harmonious combination of the heritage of the ancient traditions of the eastern way of life and a certain freedom of spirit, characteristic of the European part of the continent. Unique attractions in turkey can be compared with a kind of window into the past, in which the main historical milestones. On their basis, an independent stable state was formed on the current world map, a favorite resort destination for Russians. Below is an overview of the best and most popular attractions in Turkey.

The Blue Mosque is one of the most famous sights in Turkey. It is important to know one thing about it - this mosque is the most significant in Istanbul. In terms of area covered, it is somewhat inferior to the sanctuary built in honor of Suleiman the Magnificent, but in terms of the perfection of Ottoman architecture, it has no analogues. For Sultan Ahmed I, this mosque became the work of a lifetime, because he did not manage to gain fame and fortune in the state and military fields. This grandiose temple for Muslims was built as a sincere and all-consuming appeal to God for favor. Rare materials (special marble and precious stones), interior decoration, carpeted floors - all this distinguished the majestic building from other buildings of that time. The luxurious decoration has not been preserved in its original form, but the mosque has not lost its sense of unshakable uniqueness.

2. Topkapi

The next hot tourist spot in Turkey is Topkapi. Only with the transformation of the Turkish state into a republic, this palace turned into a museum. Built at the end of the 15th century by order of Sultan Mehmed, the residence served its intended purpose until the middle of the 19th century. On a huge area at that time there were not only palaces for the supreme ruler himself, his wives and concubines, but also many premises for household and domestic needs (kitchens, stables, a warehouse for weapons). The rich historical past in the modern world has given the famous Istanbul Palace the title of one of the richest museums. In total, there are more than 60 thousand exhibits, only a modest part is on display. The most famous values ​​of the exposition are the staff of Moses and the sword of David.

The sights of Turkey are distinguished by their diversity. Among the unique historical monuments, there is a chance to find something that will make you wonder at the wealth of the country in terms of natural potential. Cotton Castle - the second name of a curious place, designated under the third number in the current review. People come here for a unique complex wellness procedures which are possible due to the presence of 17 thermal springs. The water temperature in them varies from 30 to hundreds of degrees Celsius. Healing baths filled with water or mud are considered an effective remedy against diseases of the vessels, skin, and digestive tract. Natural deposits of calcareous tufa in certain places form terraces, the natural areas of which are filled with water. Pamukkale is under the protection of UNESCO, but is famous not only for its healing natural conditions, but also for the production of cotton. Since ancient times, the manufacture of thin, but durable and practical fabric in this area flourished and had a good reputation.

4. Basilica Cistern

In the very center of Istanbul, at a depth of 10 meters underground, in the space of a rectangular room separated by several rows of columns, there is a unique reservoir - the Basilica Cistern. Organized during the reign of Emperor Constantine, it was intended to be a sufficient supply of fresh water in case of a severe drought or a siege of the city by external enemies. Now in the halls there are 336 Greek columns, decorated with sculptural images of mythological heroes, and 4 dozen tanks. The reservoir is capable of holding 100,000 tons of water. Currently, a kind of museum is organized here, which is very popular among tourists traveling around Turkey. Restoration and cleaning work carried out at the end of the 20th century made it possible to use the space abandoned since the 16th century in this way.

One of the most impressive mosques in Istanbul has such an ornate name. The time of construction falls on the middle of the XVI century. At that time, the supreme ruler of the Ottoman Empire was Suleiman the Magnificent, whose personal life events formed the basis a large number films and works of art by eminent masters. The mosque was built over the course of seven years, each architectural element was brought to perfection and endowed with a specific symbolic meaning. About five thousand Muslims can be inside this grandiose structure at the same time. Within the walls of the mosque, a library, classrooms, an observatory, kitchens and baths fit freely. The project belongs to the outstanding engineer and architect of the Ottoman Empire, Sinan. The recognized talented master managed to recreate not only an aesthetic example of the Turkish style in architecture, but also to build an amazingly durable building that survived several dozen earthquakes and retained its monumental charm.

A sample of ancient architecture will appear before those who rest in the city of Kemer, while not striving to spend all the time in power all inclusive. Phaselis is located in picturesque place, where mountain landscapes, the sea coast and the barely perceptible breath of ancient glorious history are harmoniously intertwined. The settlement was founded by Greek colonists who bargained here land in exchange for fish, in the 7th century BC. In the future, this territory was a mute witness to prosperous and difficult times. The commander Alexander the Great visited here, and a little later the lands were subjected to pirate raids and attacks by the Arabs. Only under the rule of the Roman Empire Phaselis gained the desired prosperity. In the city, elements of the construction of that period have been preserved: baths, theaters, squares. The main attraction is an artificial water artery, through which residents have always had access to fresh water. More details can be found in a separate article.

If travel to Turkey is not limited popular resorts, and in the plans there will be an intention to make a trip to an interesting, but not obvious place, it makes sense to pay attention to the city of Nevsehir. Located near unpredictable mountain ranges, it will become a landmark on the way to the city, hidden from a superficial glance - Derinkuyu. Established in the 8th-7th century BC, it became a reliable safe haven for people who professed Christianity in a difficult time of religious persecution and persecution by militant Arabs. A unique network of interconnected drainage systems, a streamlined structure of air ducts allowed residents not only to save their lives, but also to establish a relatively comfortable life, engage in the necessary craft, and breed domestic animals. In the late 60s of the last century, tourists were allowed to see part of the city, archaeological and restoration work, and now they have a future here.

8. Castle of St. Petra in Bodrum

The sights of Turkey do not correlate with the wonders of the world indirectly, in accordance with the beauty and skill of the creators. Peter's Castle is literally built from the material that was once used in the construction of the mausoleum in Halicarnassus, this real wonder of the world did not survive. During the existence of knightly orders, the history of the castle originates. At that time, it was the greatest fortress, the fame of which was heard for many kilometers. But Fortune was not always favorable, as a result, the crusaders surrendered the fort, the Turks took possession of the castle. At one time, a warehouse of weapons was organized in the walls, later a prison arose here, and then oblivion came. Now there is a museum in the perimeter, where the main exhibits are the treasures of the seas (artifacts raised from deep surfaces).

9. Hidirlik Tower

Within the boundaries of the city of Antalya, one of the most interesting places Turkey, preserved from the second century AD. Hidirlik tower on an ancient square foundation is a model of architecture characteristic of the Roman Empire. There is an opinion that the foundation was laid much earlier, and it was not the Romans who worked on it, but the Greeks from Hellas. Over time, the structure has undergone significant changes in appearance: the roof in the form of a sharp cone was replaced by a flat platform. Now you can climb here by overcoming the steps of a rather steep staircase. The former purpose of the tower was a defensive fort and an observation post. The favorable location on the seashore made it possible to see the enemy from afar and prepare in advance for defense.

10. Hadrian's Gate

The influence of Roman architecture has almost entirely shaped some of Turkey's historical landmarks. Under the rule of the Roman emperor, Antalya was transformed into a significant port that needed protection from attack from the sea. The built fortress walls were equipped with gates, similar in appearance to triumphal arches in the main city of the empire. During a siege or raids, they were tightly closed, the city had the opportunity to defend itself. Hadrian's Gate is the only one that survived. The name suggests that the construction of the arched portal with majestic marble columns was timed to coincide with the visit of the emperor with the same name to Antalya.

11. Kocatepe Mosque

This building cannot boast of a rich history and bright events that have touched it for long epochs. The construction of the mosque was completed in 1987. However, management faced an ambiguous dilemma during the design phase. Initially, it was planned to build a structure that would maximally reflect modern trends in architecture, but not violate the eternal canons of the Islamic religion. Already at the first stages of work, the plan was rejected. The mosque, in the end, appeared in a classic form, rather predictable, but no less attractive. Inside, the hall is decorated in blue tones, spherical crystal lamps add sophistication to the interior. In a sense, the avant-garde architect Vedat Dalokai, the author of the original project, nevertheless realized his plan, but in another country - Pakistan. The result was highly appreciated. The mosque in the Turkish capital also fell in love with the residents. Nestled right below her shopping mall helps to accumulate funds for its maintenance in a decent form.

12. Alanya Fortress

Alanya Fortress is another attraction that will be interesting for tourists to visit in Turkey. This is the old frame of the whole resort. Like many ancient structures of defensive significance, the fortress was built for the successful defense of the city. The double stone walls could withstand cannon fire. Numerous towers with observation posts made it possible to notice the enemy in advance, and narrow loopholes served as an excellent point for defense in close combat: streams of hot water and boiling resin splashed out on the besiegers. The fortress demonstrated complete self-sufficiency. On the territory there were baths, residences of rulers, the treasury, squares for military occupations, places for prayers. The lack of water did not threaten the inhabitants: the reserves were constantly replenished through underground sources, their number numbered several hundred.

13. Haydarpasa Station

The architecture of Istanbul is amazingly picturesque: each building harmoniously fits into the surroundings, despite the presence of different styles. Haydarpasa Station, located near the port of the same name, is a direct confirmation of this. This is one of the most famous. The building was built according to the project of German specialists. The work was carried out by workers from Germany and Italy. The construction lasted about three years, during which time the hired craftsmen even managed to establish their own settlement nearby. By 1909, the station was open and operated until 2012. best view to the standard of neoclassicism among buildings in the oriental style opens during a walk on a sea vessel along the Bosphorus.

14. Galata Tower

Medieval architecture is able not only to withstand time and destructive historical events, but also to make a strong impression on contemporaries. An example of this is the Galata tower, the top of which is now used as a place for an observation platform. From there, a picturesque view of Istanbul and its surroundings opens up. The height of the building is 61 meters (excluding the natural pedestal, the role of which is played by the hill of the same name). Built in the 14th century, it periodically served as a location for experiments with the first aircraft. As one of the key attractions of Turkey, the tower began to serve in the second half of the last century.

15. Grand Bazaar in Istanbul

Beyazıt Square in central area Istanbul fit within its borders one of the largest covered markets in the world. The malls are protected from the sun's rays by ubiquitous ceilings, arches, and stone walls surrounding the square itself. Every day, about half a million tourists and local residents flock here for shopping and fun. The assortment is the quintessence of oriental culture. Textile goods, culinary delights (spices, spices), ceramics, crafts made from semi-precious stones and jewelry - all this can be purchased at a suitable cost if you know the basic rule of trading in the East (bargaining). The place is also suitable for an ordinary walk: colorful cafes and fountains will add fullness to the general atmosphere. The square can be entered through one of nine gates, each with its own name. In order not to get lost, it is worth remembering it.

16. Rumelihisar Fortress

Many sights of Istanbul are connected with the Bosphorus. The water artery conventionally divides the city into Asian and European sides. On guard of the latter, a silent witness of the passing eras, stands a fortress, the name of which has a frightening translation - “throat cut”. For many years, through this fortress, Constantinople controlled the movement of ships along the strait. Later, when the city fell, prisoners were kept here. Now tourists have a chance to climb the fortress walls and contemplate the impressive panorama. The fort itself is three main towers and thirteen minor ones. In the inner perimeter there is a museum dedicated to military artillery. Rumelihisar Fortress is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey.

The Turkish people cherish the memory of the people who significantly influenced the fate of their state. The sights of the capital of Turkey clearly speak of this. The tomb of the first head of the republic was built on Razateppe hill. During the construction, marble, calcareous tuff of various shades were used. The symmetrical building was created with an emphasis on individual elements, in view of which the overall holistic picture does not look too simple and clumsy. The body of the revered Mustafa Kemal Ataturk is in the Hall of Honor. This is one of the four parts that make up the complex. The rest: the park, the road of lions and the square that crowns it. A museum has been organized on the territory, where the personal belongings of the national hero are stored, as well as evidence of the times of the struggle for independence. On the Day of the Republic and the memory of the unforgettable leader, the mausoleum is filled with a huge number of people who came to pay respect to the first president.

18. Duden waterfalls

For those who have chosen Antalya as their holiday destination, the wonders of nature become available right within the city. The waterfalls, named in tune with the river, whose waters are carried, amaze with their dissimilarity. One of them looks the most impressive: its height is comparable to a building with a dozen floors. A noisy stream of water rushes straight into the sea. The second is located in the park area. In a more calm and peaceful environment, a natural object acquires a special charm and mystery. One secret will be revealed immediately. One has only to get to the cave, and it will be possible to look at a part of the water stream, hidden from observers from the outside.

All the sights of Turkey demonstrate original architecture, bizarrely aesthetic wonders of diverse nature and manifestations of a special culture, an original way of life that has been formed over the centuries. Even sophisticated travelers will find new impressions here, opportunities for surprise and delight, appreciating the beauty majestic mountains, underground cities, wayward rivers, hospitality and cordiality of local residents.

Mosques and Christian cathedrals, fortresses, palaces, numerous monuments of modern architecture, beautiful nature - all these are the sights of Turkey, the country that many of us are accustomed to seeing only in the image seaside resort. Undoubtedly, the pearl of this country is its capital - Istanbul. This city has absorbed various traditions and religions throughout the history of mankind. In other areas of the country, architectural monuments of various eras and cultures are similarly concentrated, and in order to see all these sights of Turkey, we will go right now to virtual tour and examine each memorable city separately.

capital of capitals

A city that has access to two seas at once, where ancient architectural monuments and modern glass skyscrapers are located - all this is Turkey, Istanbul. The sights of the capital can be divided into different categories: old and new, Asian and European. And each of them will be beautiful and unusual in its own way. For example, the European part of the city is divided into the old and new Golden Horn bays. In the south, there are ancient quarters, which the locals call Eminenu. All buildings here have a predominantly medieval appearance. The northern half of the European part of Istanbul - Beyoglu (as the Turks call it) - consists of modern European quarters. There is also a large port and many business centers. Uzkudar is the name given to the Asian half of the city. Luxurious villas, cottages and hotels are located here. Also on the coast of the Sea of ​​​​Marmara there are many old buildings that have survived from the time of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

Merging two religions

Every tourist, even for the first time getting to Istanbul, finds himself on the main square of the city, where he sees the two most notable sights of Turkey - the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. First - important temple cities. Considering that most of the natives are Muslims, they come exactly to the threshold of the Blue Mosque. Opposite it is ancient monument Christian Religion - Hagia Sophia. It was built during the existence of the Byzantine Empire, when Istanbul was named after Constantinople. After the city was conquered by the Ottomans, the temple was converted into a mosque, and only in the 20th century the country's government decided that from now on it would be a museum. You can visit it at any time of the day for a purely nominal fee. The Topkapi Palace also attracts the attention of tourists. It has four courtyards and a temple of St. Irene on its territory. Not far from it, the old harem of the Sultan has been preserved.

The main resort of the country

The main summer destination of most Russian tourists is Türkiye, Antalya. The sights of this resort metropolis play far from the most important role for the guests of the country, nevertheless they are available, and in order to beach holiday became more diverse and interesting, we will briefly consider them. The oldest building architecture in the city - Hadrian's Gate. They were erected here during the visit of the Roman emperor and have survived to this day. The symbol of the city is the beautiful Yivli Mosque, which is famous for its very high minaret. Antalya has many very beautiful parks, the best of which is Mermeli. You should definitely visit at least one of the many museums in the city. The most entertaining will be a trip to the archaeological site. Here are collected memorable artifacts from antiquity. For a change, you can visit the ethnographic museum, which can also tell a lot about the people and the country.

Capital of luxury and fun

Bodrum is a resort city located on the Mediterranean coast. It is conditionally divided into two parts - Old and New, but still remains the main club center of the country, where there are fabulously expensive hotels, villas, yachts and other sybarite entertainment. A completely separate topic is the sights of Bodrum. Turkey, as you know, is a country with a free religion, because in the very center of this city stands St. Peter's Cathedral. He divides the resort town into two parts. The western one is characterized by typically European modern buildings. There are tall hotels, penthouses, expensive restaurants, yacht clubs and water parks. A place where rich people from Europe like to come, where Russian millionaires often relax or just young people who love stormy nightlife. The east of the city is the east. There are typical Turkish markets, towers, chapels, architectural monuments, which were mainly built by Muslims. There are also Christian buildings.

Immersed in tropical greenery

A city that is buried in the greenery of cedars and eucalyptus trees, where tropical coniferous trees and shrubs grow, and among them elite and very expensive hotels and cottages stretch out - this, of course, is Turkey, Belek. The attractions of this seaside resort, first of all, are its flora. Exotic and very rare species of trees and flowers are collected here in numerous reserves, which every tourist can visit. The most famous of them is the "Koprulu Canyon", which is located among the cedar and eucalyptus thickets. On its territory you can go horseback riding, mountain climbing and various types water sports. The second most popular nature reserve is Rixos Premium Belek. Here, in addition to natural heritage, there is also a huge Troy water park. Not far from Belek there are ancient ruins, the city of Perge Aspendos Side - the sights of Turkey, which have been preserved since the era of Cappadocia.

The most European resort in the country

If you are looking for a city in Turkey where you can have a calm and affordable rest with children, then you are here. The area, located on the coast of a cozy bay, where there are no winds and storms, where it is always warm and sunny - this is Marmaris, Turkey. The sights of this tourist corner, despite the fact that it is very small, cover many eras, from the Ottoman to our days. Calais Castle, which is now a city museum, was built in 1044 BC. e. the Ionians. Nowadays, artifacts inherent in various centuries are stored here. The main monument of the Ottoman era is the caravanserai of the Sultan of Hafsa, which was erected in the 16th century. A very important attraction is also the Ibrahim Aga Mosque, which dates back to the 18th century.

Traveling with children

It is from Marmaris that many sightseeing tours to various noble places depart daily. To visit such an event is the duty of every tourist if he went to rest in such magical land like Türkiye. Attractions, excursions, trips through tropical gardens and mountain rivers, numerous open-air museums and a little extreme - all this can be found here. So, the main direction from Marmaris is the island of Cleopatra (or Sedir). Here you can enjoy the wide beaches (on one of which, according to legend, the Egyptian queen herself bathed), the ruins that our ancestors left here from antiquity. Those who wish to improve their health can visit Pamukkale - thermal springs stunning beauty and healing power. The second excursion direction is Dalyan Island. A record amount of therapeutic mud is concentrated here, and there are also beautiful wide beaches. The place is also known as a rookery of sea turtles. Be sure to visit the ruins of Dalyan ancient city Kaunos, which is considered the main asset of this region.

Another port of antiquity

The city, the beginning of whose history dates back to the 5th century BC, is also considered the modern resort of Fethiye. It is conditionally divided into two parts. The first of them is little built up, but all the hotels that are located there are very expensive, and they offer their customers a vacation of the highest standard. The second part contains a huge number of hotels for any budget. Now let's take a closer look at what they are, the architectural sights of Fethiye. Turkey has long been a very important port for Rome, Greece and other countries in the ancient period. Within this city the best way it is the amphitheatres, wide squares, palaces and temples of those peoples that have been preserved. It is believed that even Alexander the Great once had his residence here. The Lycian Mountains also rise above the city, where you can see the oldest burials.

Living History of the Byzantine Empire

The city in which most of the architectural monuments of the Byzantine period have been preserved is Turkey, Alanya. The sights of this town are few, but very impressive. tourist center It is considered the fortress of Ich-Kale. It was built in the 13th century, and within its boundaries you can now see the ruins of an ancient castle, baths, water tanks, as well as several Orthodox churches. It is noteworthy that it was in the same century that the mosque of Aladdin Keykubat was built in the city, which has survived to this day. Caves are still considered a natural heritage of the city. The main and most beautiful here is Damlatash. There is also the "Cave of Lovers", "Phosphorus Cave" and "Pirate".

What tourists say about Turkey

Undoubtedly, one of the most unique, inimitable and beautiful countries on earth is Türkiye. Everyone who has ever been here wants to come back again and again. A record number of architectural monuments are concentrated here, covering literally all eras of human life. The main thing, as travelers say, is to first decide on the route. Choose the city that will be most interesting for you to watch. It can be a region with a huge number of ancient buildings or a city where mosques and caravanserais are located. There are many megacities in Turkey where the dynamic rhythm of life merges with a beach holiday.

The list of attractions in Turkey includes the most popular tourist places: ancient cities and architectural monuments, religious buildings, colorful bazaars and amazingly beautiful natural objects. All popular attractions are presented with a photo and description, a map in Russian, useful information about accessibility for tourists (address, phones, working hours, how to get there).

What to see in Turkey. Where to go

The main attractions of Turkey

The heart of Turkey is Istanbul, the largest port city, its cultural, commercial and industrial center; ancient Byzantium and Constantinople, former capital Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman empires.

The charm of Istanbul is its historical Center in the Sultanahmet area, where outstanding monuments of world architecture are located: the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque), the Hagia Sophia Museum, the Basilica Cistern underground reservoir, the museum treasury - Topkapi Palace and many other grandiose sights in their significance.

A tourist walk around Istanbul is unthinkable without crossing the Galata bridge, a view of the city from the Galata Tower, traveling by ferry to the Princes' Islands, shopping on the pedestrian street Istiklal and at the Grand Bazaar, photos of cats and flowers in Gulhane Park. And this list can be continued, because in order to have time to see all the sights of Istanbul, even a week is not enough.

The famous natural sites of Turkey often coexist with cultural monuments. So, natural, but unusual in their form, stone remnants are far from the only “curiosity” of Cappadocia; in these places, cave settlements and the main wealth of the Goreme National Park - churches and monasteries - are just as amazing.

White travertines and thermal springs of Pamukkale side by side with the ruins ancient city Hierapolis and form a single unique complex.

The main attractions of Turkey also include the ruins of ancient cities - Troy, Ephesus, Hattusa, Lycian tombs, national museums and the mosques of the capital - Ankara, the standard of the Turkish mosque - the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne, the beaches Turkish resorts Mediterranean Sea.

Sights of cities in Turkey

Popular resort towns Turkey, where the main flow of tourists rushes, is attracted by the opportunity to combine an all-inclusive beach and hotel holiday with a sightseeing tour: see ancient fortresses and the ruins of ancient cities, unique natural attractions of Turkey.

Kemer

In Kemer, you can find not only the sea and beaches, but also attractive hotel recreation and entertainment. Popular places for walks outside the beach area - Town Square, where a fountain and a monument to Kemal Ataturk, the Kemer Zoo and Mount Tahtali towering over Kemer, which is included in national park Olympos. At the bottom of the mountain there is a historical monument - the ruins of the ancient city of Olympos, founded in the 3rd century BC, and in the eastern part national park- Beldibi cave complex. Leads to the top of the mountain cable car- a separate attraction for vacationers in Kemer and nearby resorts.

Alanya

Resort Alanya is a town with a rich history: it was founded more than two thousand years ago, in different time belonged to pirates, Greeks, Ottomans. A medieval fortress has been preserved in Alanya, where an open-air museum has been created - now it is the main attraction of the resort. Equally ancient buildings are the Red Tower in the port and the shipyard.

The city houses the Ataturk Museum and Archaeological Museum, whose collection includes rare mosaics. Centers active rest- water park and suburban marine park.

Marmaris

Holidays in Marmaris can and should be diverse: this is Cleopatra's beach on the island of Sedir, unforgettable sensations of walking along the sandy spit of Kyz-Kum, clubs and discos on the embankment, the waterfall of the same name, swimming in cool river waters.

Antalya

in number tourist spots Turkey's main resort includes medieval towers and minarets, historical museums, an aquarium and a zoo. The bright “Umbrella Street”, a restaurant street decorated with six hundred multi-colored umbrellas in 2013, has already become a favorite place for walking. The sights of Antalya often include ancient cities, caves and waterfalls located in the vicinity: getting to them by transport or with excursions is usually not difficult.

In addition, on the coasts of Turkey, the tourist attractions of Belek and Konakli (beaches and golf clubs), Bodrum (nightclubs, surfing and the remains of ancient buildings), Izmir ( historical monuments And business center) and many other cities. In addition, the main natural and ancient complexes have long been established excursion tours from all resorts.

Video overview of the sights of Turkey