Turkey marks Anzac Day
Thousands of people gather at locations across Turkey and in cities and towns in Australia and New Zealand every year to honour the soldiers who lost their lives during a tragic campaign in 1915. Ceremonies are held near the former World War I battlefields on Turkey’s Gallipoli Peninsula, as well as in other areas, where […]
Turkey’s legendary burning mountain: the eternal flames of Yanartaş
In the realm of Greek mythology, tales abound of extraordinary creatures and phenomena—winged stallions, minotaurs, and gods with thunderous tempers. Yet few mythical sites blur the line between legend and reality as convincingly as Mount Chimaera, now known as Yanartaş, in southwestern Turkey. This ancient and enigmatic destination has captivated imaginations for millennia, thanks to […]
Saklıkent Gorge: Seydikemer’s Natural Heritage
Saklıkent Gorge, located in the Seydikemer district of Muğla, is a must-visit destination for both local and international travellers in search of an unforgettable nature experience. Renowned for its striking scenery and sense of adventure, the canyon has become a favourite among holidaymakers, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers alike. Carved deep into the landscape, Saklıkent Gorge […]
Discovering the flavourful cuisine of Turkey
The true essence of Turkey lies in its vibrant local cuisine, making it essential for travellers to explore local delicacies, especially in smaller towns where authentic treats are not only delicious but also more affordable than their Western counterparts. By venturing beyond the familiar, you can uncover the delightful flavours that make Turkey a gastronomic […]
Koza Han: a glimpse into Bursa’s silk road legacy
Tucked away in the heart of Bursa’s bustling market district, Koza Han stands as a living testament to the city’s rich history and its vital role in the ancient silk trade. This beautifully restored han (caravanserai) is not only an architectural gem but also a vibrant social hub where locals and visitors alike pause from […]
Turkish coffee -“bir fıncan kahvenin kırk yıllık hatırı vardır”
Turkish coffee, recently recognized by the European Union as a “traditional product,” is gaining wider international attention, according to experts. The designation is viewed as an important step in showcasing Turkish coffee not only as a popular beverage but also as a meaningful part of cultural heritage. The regard given to coffee in Turkey is […]
Easter bread with Mahlepi; Paskalya Çöreği
A special Easter bread, Paskalya Çöreği, that you can find all year round in bakeries in Istanbul… Tsoureki is a Greek holiday bread that is made by Greeks during Easter, not only in Greece but also in other countries with Greek communities. The Turkish name for this bread is Paskalya Çöreği (Paskalya is the Turkish […]
Celebrating Nevruz, the festival that marks the arrival of spring
“Nauryz, Navruz, Nawrouz, Nevruz, Nooruz, Novruz, Nowrouz, Nowruz – this celebration of the arrival of spring is as rich in names as it is in traditions. No matter what name you call it by, this shared festivity has brought communities together across countries and regions for more than 3,000 years” ~ Audrey Azoulay UNESCO Director-General […]
Ramazan Bayramı – the sweetest holiday of all
This week marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. In Turkey, the festival is known as Ramazan Bayramı and is traditionally observed with three days of feasting and family gatherings. It is customary to wear new clothes for the occasion. On the way to the mosque, many […]
Turkey marks the 111th anniversary of the Çanakkale naval victory
Every year on 18 March, Turkey observes Çanakkale Victory and Martyrs’ Day, paying tribute to fallen soldiers and commemorating a pivotal World War I triumph. This year marks the 111th anniversary of Turkey’s naval victory on the Gallipoli Peninsula at the outset of the war. The occasion is honoured with a traditional ceremony at the […]