The History of The Top Ten Attractive Tourist Places In Turkey.

Detailed History of Turkey’s Top 10 Tourist Attractions.
Turkey, a land of extraordinary diversity, is home to some of the most captivating tourist destinations in the world. From the ruins of ancient empires to natural wonders, these sites represent thousands of years of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Below is a detailed historical account of Turkey’s top ten most attractive tourist places.

1. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), Istanbul
   Historical Background
   Hagia Sophia was built in 537 CE during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Designed by Greek architects Isidore of Miletus and Anthemius of Tralles, it was a revolutionary structure for its time, particularly for its massive dome, which seemed to defy gravity. Initially serving as a Greek Orthodox cathedral, it was the heart of Eastern Christianity for nearly a thousand years.
   In 1453, after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople by Sultan Mehmed II, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. Minarets, a mihrab, and calligraphic inscriptions were added, blending Islamic and Christian traditions. It became a museum in 1935 under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s secular reforms and was reclassified as a mosque again in 2020.
   Why It’s Special?
   Hagia Sophia remains an architectural marvel symbol of Istanbul’s multicultural and multi-religious history. Its stunning mosaics, soaring dome, and cultural legacy draw millions of visitors annually.
2. Ephesus (Efes), Izmir Province
   Historical Background
3. 
   Ephesus was an ancient Greek city founded in the 10th century BCE by Attic and Ionian settlers. It became one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire, flourishing as a hub of trade and culture. The city was home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
   During the 1st century CE, Ephesus became a major center for early Christianity. The Apostle Paul preached here, and it is believed that the Virgin Mary spent her final years nearby. However, its prosperity declined after its harbor silted up.
   Notable Features
   The city’s Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, and Terrace Houses offer a glimpse into ancient Roman life. Its extensive ruins showcase the sophistication of this once-thriving metropolis.
4. Cappadocia, Nevşehir Province
   Historical Background:
   Cappadocia’s surreal landscape of volcanic tuff was formed millions of years ago. Its human history dates back to the Hittites around 2000 BCE. During the Roman era, early Christians carved churches, monasteries, and entire underground cities, such as Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı, to escape persecution.
   Cultural Significance:
   The Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features rock-hewn churches adorned with vivid frescoes. Cappadocia’s “fairy chimneys” and ancient dwellings showcase the harmony between nature and human ingenuity.
5. Pamukkale and Hierapolis, Denizli Province
   Historical Background
   Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle,” is a natural wonder of white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich hot springs. Adjacent to Pamukkale is Hierapolis, an ancient Greco-Roman city founded in the 2nd century BCE. Renowned as a spa destination in antiquity, Hierapolis attracted people seeking the therapeutic benefits of its waters.
   Notable Ruins
   Hierapolis features a well-preserved theatre, the Temple of Apollo, and a vast necropolis. The thermal pools of Pamukkale continue to be a popular attraction for visitors seeking relaxation and wellness.
   

5. Troy (Troia), Çanakkale Province
Historical Background
Troy is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, dating back to around 3000 BCE. It gained legendary status through Homer’s Iliad, which describes the Trojan War. The city’s strategic location made it a significant center of trade and culture in antiquity.

Archaeological Discoveries
Excavations have uncovered nine layers of settlement, revealing a history spanning over 4,000 years. Visitors can see remnants of ancient walls, gates, and a replica of the Trojan Horse.

6. Mount Nemrut (Nemrut Dağı), Adıyaman Province
Historical Background
Mount Nemrut is home to the tomb and sanctuary of King Antiochus I of the Kingdom of Commagene, built in the 1st century BCE. This mountaintop monument features colossal statues of gods, animals, and the king himself, symbolizing the blending of Persian and Hellenistic cultures.

UNESCO Heritage
The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is particularly famous for its sunrise and sunset views, where the statues appear to glow with golden light.

7. Topkapi Palace, Istanbul
Historical Background
Constructed by Sultan Mehmed II in the 15th century, Topkapi Palace served as the administrative and residential center of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years. The palace is a sprawling complex with courtyards, gardens, and ornate chambers.

Treasures Within
The palace houses sacred Islamic relics, including the Prophet Muhammad’s belongings, and dazzling artifacts, such as the Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. Its Harem section provides insight into the private lives of Ottoman sultans.

8. Pergamon (Bergama), Izmir Province
Historical Background
Pergamon was a powerful city in the Hellenistic period and later became an important Roman city. It was renowned for its cultural achievements, particularly its library, which rivaled that of Izmir. The city also became an early center of Christianity.

Architectural Highlights
The Acropolis of Pergamon features the Temple of Trajan, the Altar of Zeus, and one of the steepest ancient theatres in the world.

9. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Mosque), Istanbul
Historical Background
Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I and completed in 1616, the Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic examples of Ottoman architecture. Its six minarets and interior adorned with over 20,000 blue İznik tiles make it a visual masterpiece.

Why It Stands Out
The mosque combines Islamic and Byzantine architectural elements, symbolizing Istanbul’s heritage as a city where cultures merge.

10. Göbekli Tepe, Şanlıurfa Province
Historical Background
Göbekli Tepe, dating back to 9600 BCE, is the world’s oldest known temple complex. Its discovery revolutionized our understanding of prehistoric societies, as it predates agriculture and urbanization.

Cultural Impact
The site’s T-shaped pillars are intricately carved with animal motifs, suggesting complex religious practices. Göbekli Tepe offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of early human communities.

Conclusion
Turkey’s top tourist destinations are a testament to its rich and diverse history, showcasing the achievements of ancient civilizations, the legacy of empires, and the beauty of its natural landscapes. These sites not only preserve the past but also inspire awe and wonder in visitors from around the globe.