Konya, the city of the world-famous poet and philosopher Rumi, is located in the heart of Anatolia. With its rich history and spiritual significance, Konya is a unique destination for those seeking cultural and religious experiences. Known as the center of the Whirling Dervish order, Konya is home to the Mevlana Museum, where visitors can explore the life and teachings of the great Sufi mystic, Rumi.

Aside from its spiritual significance, Konya is also a city with a rich history dating back to the ancient Roman and Byzantine eras. The Seljuk Turks made Konya their capital city in the 12th century and left behind an impressive architectural legacy. The Alaeddin Mosque and the Karatay Medrese are among the most notable Seljuk landmarks in Konya.

Konya is also famous for its cuisine, which is influenced by the city’s location on the ancient Silk Road. The local cuisine features meat dishes, such as the delicious etli ekmek and tandır kebabı, and sweet treats like pişmaniye and cezerye. The bustling bazaars and markets in Konya offer a chance to taste and buy these local specialties.

Konya’s rich cultural heritage, spiritual significance, and culinary delights make it a must-visit destination in Turkey. Whether you are interested in history, religion, or food, Konya offers something for everyone.

Catalhoyuk, one of the world’s most important archaeological sites and a window into the past. Located in the Konya Plain of Turkey, Catalhoyuk is a prehistoric settlement dating back to 7500 BCE, making it one of the oldest and largest Neolithic sites in the world.

The name “Çatalhöyük” means “forked mound” in Turkish, referring to the distinctive shape of the site’s main hill. The settlement is believed to have been home to up to 8,000 people at its peak, and its well-preserved architecture and artifacts offer an unparalleled glimpse into the daily lives and beliefs of early humans.

Visitors to Catalhoyuk can explore the site’s many houses, which were built closely together and often shared walls and roofs. These houses feature intricate murals and carvings depicting scenes from daily life, as well as symbols and figures believed to have held religious significance. Additionally, Catalhoyuk boasts a variety of burials, including those of important community members and infants buried beneath the floors of their homes.

In addition to the site itself, visitors can also explore the Catalhoyuk Archaeological Museum, which houses many of the site’s most important finds. The museum features exhibits on the daily life of the settlement’s inhabitants, as well as on the history of excavation at the site.

Visitors to Catalhoyuk should be prepared for a unique and immersive experience, as the site is largely uncovered and open to the elements. Additionally, due to the fragile nature of the site and its artifacts, access to certain areas may be restricted.