Ancient Cities in Turkey

Explore the ancient cities of Turkey, from the ruins of Ephesus to the rock-cut temples of Cappadocia. Discover the rich history and archaeological wonders that make Turkey a top destination for history enthusiasts.

  • Ancient stone pillars at Göbekli Tepe, arranged in circular formations with detailed carvings depicting animals and abstract symbols.

    Göbekli Tepe, Şanlıurfa

    Göbekli Tepe, located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey, [...]

    Göbekli Tepe, Göbekli Tepe ancient history, Göbekli Tepe ancient site, Göbekli Tepe archaeology, Göbekli Tepe architectural features, Göbekli Tepe architecture, Göbekli Tepe artifacts, Göbekli Tepe carvings, Göbekli Tepe cultural heritage, Göbekli Tepe discovery, Göbekli Tepe early civilization, Göbekli Tepe early religion, Göbekli Tepe excavation, Göbekli Tepe guided tours, Göbekli Tepe historical site, Göbekli Tepe history, Göbekli Tepe hunter-gatherers, Göbekli Tepe iconography, Göbekli Tepe megaliths, Göbekli Tepe Neolithic, Göbekli Tepe pilgrimage site, Göbekli Tepe pillars, Göbekli Tepe religion, Göbekli Tepe research, Göbekli Tepe Şanlıurfa, Göbekli Tepe significance, Göbekli Tepe site, Göbekli Tepe social hub, Göbekli Tepe Stone Age, Göbekli Tepe structures, Göbekli Tepe temple, Göbekli Tepe tourism, Göbekli Tepe travel, Göbekli Tepe travel guide, Göbekli Tepe travel tips, Göbekli Tepe UNESCO, Göbekli Tepe visit

  • Karahantepe archaeological site with ancient T-shaped obelisks in Turkey.

    Karahantepe, Şanlıurfa

    Karahantepe, located 60 km east of Şanlıurfa, is emerging as [...]

    ancient rituals Turkey, ancient sites Turkey, ancient Turkey, archaeology Turkey, early civilization Turkey, early human civilization, Göbeklitepe culture, Karahantepe, Karahantepe ancient history, Karahantepe and Göbeklitepe, Karahantepe archaeological site, Karahantepe architecture, Karahantepe artifacts, Karahantepe discoveries, Karahantepe excavations, Karahantepe historical significance, Karahantepe history, Karahantepe importance, Karahantepe Neolithic era, Karahantepe research, Karahantepe research findings, Karahantepe Şanlıurfa, Karahantepe significance, Karahantepe site plan, Karahantepe T-shaped obelisks, Karahantepe timeline, Karahantepe tourism, Karahantepe tours, Karahantepe travel guide, Karahantepe visiting tips, Neolithic history, Neolithic religion, Neolithic site Turkey, Neolithic spirituality, Şanlıurfa historical sites, Şanlıurfa travel, T-shaped pillars Karahantepe, visiting Karahantepe

  • Ruins of Choma Ancient City in Antalya, Türkiye, with remnants of a Byzantine church and Lycian-type sarcophagi against the Taurus Mountains backdrop.

    Choma, Antalya

    Choma Ancient City, also known as Hacımusalar or Beyler Mound, [...]

    ancient art Antalya, ancient mounds Türkiye, ancient pottery, ancient settlements Türkiye, ancient wall paintings, Antalya archaeological finds, Antalya cultural heritage, Antalya heritage preservation, Antalya history, Antalya history enthusiasts, Antalya religious sites, Antalya tourism, Antalya travel, Beyler Mound, Byzantine Church, Byzantine period Antalya, Choma Ancient City, Choma bishop’s lists, Choma excavations, Choma fortifications, Choma historical significance, Choma mosaics, Choma terraces, Copper Age settlements, cultural tourism Türkiye, Early Bronze Age, Elmalı district, Elmalı villages, Hacımusalar Mound, Hellenistic period Antalya, historical sites in Antalya, Iron Age artifacts, Lycian sarcophagi, ritual objects Choma, Roman period Antalya, Taurus Mountains, Travel Guide of Türkiye, Turkish archaeological sites

  • Beautiful view of Simena (Kaleköy), Turkey with ancient fortress, turquoise sea, submerged ruins, and traditional houses.

    Simena

    Nestled along the stunning Lycian coast, Simena is a captivating [...]

    ancient Demre, ancient ruins, ancient Simena, Antalya Province travel, best time to visit Demre, best time to visit Simena, castle, Church of Saint Nicholas, coastal village, Demre, Demre attractions, Demre boat tours, Demre ruins, hiking, historical sites, Kaleköy, kayaking, Kekova, Kekova Island, Lycian coast, Lycian Way, Mediterranean, Myra, scenic views, Simena, Simena boat tours, Simena fortress, Simena ruins, snorkeling in Demre, snorkeling in Simena, sunken city Kekova, sunken city Simena, travel destination, Turkey, Turkish cuisine, Turkish culture, Turkish Riviera, turquoise waters, underwater ruins, visiting Demre, visiting Simena

  • Scenic view of Patara, Turkey with ancient ruins, lush green hills, and the pristine Patara Beach.

    Patara

    Nestled along Turkey’s beautiful southwestern coast, Patara is a treasure [...]

    ancient Patara, ancient ruins, Antalya, Antalya Province travel, archaeological site, best time to visit Patara, Hadrian's Granary, historical significance, Lycian coast, Lycian League, Mediterranean, outdoor activities, Patara, Patara archaeological site, Patara Beach, Patara beaches, Patara history, Patara lighthouse, Patara National Park, Patara ruins, Roman architecture, Saint Nicholas birthplace, scenic views, tourism, travel destination, Turkey, Turkey travel, Turkish culture, visiting Patara, wildlife

  • A picturesque view of the ancient city of Olympus (Lycia) in southwestern Turkey, featuring well-preserved ruins surrounded by lush greenery. The scene includes ancient stone structures, a clear blue sky, and the majestic Mount Olympus in the background.

    Olympus (Lycia)

    Nestled in the lush landscapes of southwestern Turkey, the ancient [...]

    ancient ruins Olympus, Mount Olympus Turkey, Olympos Beydağları National Park, Olympus accommodation, Olympus hiking, Olympus history, Olympus Lycia, travel Olympus, visit Olympus Turkey, Yanartaş flames

  • A scenic view of the ancient city of Telmissos in Bodrum, Turkey, featuring well-preserved ruins of the Hellenistic period, including the towers of the city's walls, with lush green hills and clear skies in the background, and tourists exploring the site.

    Telmissos

    Introduction to Telmissos Nestled on the Bodrum-Turgutreis road, just three [...]

    ancient city Telmissos, Hellenistic period Telmissos, Telmissos, Telmissos Bodrum, Telmissos city walls, Telmissos towers, Telmissos Turkey, Temple of Apollo Telmissos, travel Telmissos

  • A stunning view of the ancient city of Anavarza in Adana, Turkey, featuring well-preserved ruins of Anavarza Castle, the Roman baths, and the triumphal arch, with lush green hills and clear skies in the background and tourists exploring the site.

    Anavarza

    Introduction to Anavarza Situated in the Cilicia region of Adana [...]

    Anavarza, Anavarza Adana, Anavarza Castle, Anavarza Roman baths, Anavarza triumphal arch, Anavarza Turkey, ancient city Anavarza, Cilicia region Anavarza, Roman ruins Anavarza, travel Anavarza

  • A scenic view of the ancient city of Colossae in Denizli, Turkey, featuring well-preserved ruins of the acropolis, rock-cut tombs, and surrounding structures, with lush green hills and clear skies in the background and tourists exploring the site.

    Colossae

    Introduction to Colossae Nestled in the outskirts of Denizli province [...]

    ancient city Colossae, Colossae, Colossae acropolis, Colossae Denizli, Colossae rock-cut tombs, Colossae Turkey, Persian rule Colossae, Phrygian city Colossae, travel Colossae

  • A stunning view of the ancient city of Stratonikeia in Aydin, Turkey, featuring well-preserved ruins of the castle, entrance door, small theater, and gymnasium, with lush green hills and clear skies in the background.

    Stratonikeia

    Introduction to Stratonikeia Stratonikeia, often referred to as the “City [...]

    ancient city Stratonikeia, Khrysaor Union, Stratonikeia, Stratonikeia Aydin, Stratonikeia castle, Stratonikeia entrance door, Stratonikeia gymnasium, Stratonikeia theater, Stratonikeia Turkey, travel Stratonikeia

  • A scenic view of the ancient city of Priene in Aydin, Turkey, featuring well-preserved ruins of the Temple of Athena, the theater, and the agora, with lush green hills and clear blue sky in the background and tourists exploring the site.

    Priene

    Introduction to Priene Nestled within the borders of Aydin province [...]

    ancient city Priene, Ionian city Priene, Priene, Priene agora, Priene Aydin, Priene theater, Priene Turkey, Temple of Athena Priene, Temple of Zeus Olympus Priene, travel Priene

  • A scenic view of the ancient city of Alacahöyük in Çorum, Turkey, featuring well-preserved Hittite ruins, including the Sphinx Gate and Royal Tombs, set against lush green hills and clear skies with tourists exploring the site.

    Alacahöyük

    Introduction to Alacahöyük Nestled in Alaca town within the Çorum [...]

    Alacahöyük, Alacahöyük artifacts, Alacahöyük Royal Tombs, Alacahöyük Sphinx Gate, ancient city Alacahöyük, Bronze Age Alacahöyük, Çorum province, Hittite ruins Alacahöyük, Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, travel Alacahöyük

  • A stunning view of the ancient city of Phaselis in Antalya, Turkey, featuring well-preserved Roman and Byzantine ruins, including the harbor, agora, and aqueduct, set against lush green forests and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

    Phaselis

    Introduction to Phaselis Nestled amidst the lush green nature of [...]

    ancient city Phaselis, Byzantine ruins Phaselis, Phaselis, Phaselis agora, Phaselis Antalya, Phaselis aqueduct, Phaselis beaches, Phaselis harbors, Phaselis Roman theater, Roman ruins Phaselis, travel Phaselis

  • A scenic view of the ancient city of Knidos on the Datça Peninsula, Turkey, featuring ruins of the Temple of Apollo, round temples, and hillside houses with the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea in the background, and tourists exploring the site.

    Knidos

    Introduction to Knidos Knidos, an ancient city situated at the [...]

    ancient city Knidos, Byzantine ruins Knidos, Datça Peninsula, Knidos, Knidos beaches, Knidos hiking, Knidos hillside houses, Knidos necropolis, Roman ruins Knidos, Temple of Apollo Knidos, travel Knidos

  • A scenic view of the ancient city of Lotape in Antalya, Turkey, featuring Roman and Byzantine ruins by the turquoise sea, with tourists exploring the site against a backdrop of lush greenery and clear blue skies.

    Lotape

    Introduction to Lotape Located in the picturesque province of Antalya, [...]

    Alanya attractions, ancient city Lotape, Byzantine monuments Lotape, Iotape, Lotape, Lotape Antalya, Lotape Byzantine churches, Lotape harbor, Lotape Roman baths, Mediterranean travel Turkey, Roman monuments Lotape

  • A scenic view of Harput in Elazığ, Turkey, featuring the ancient Harput Castle on a hilltop, the Great Mosque (Ulu Camii), and traditional houses with lush greenery and distant mountains in the background.

    Harput

    Introduction to Harput Nestled within the province of Elazığ, Turkey, [...]

    Elazığ, Harput, Harput Castle, Harput cuisine, Harput houses, Harput Valley, Lake Hazar, Mansur Baba Tomb, Sarahatun Mosque, travel Harput, Ulu Camii, Virgin Mary Church Harput

  • A stunning view of the ancient city of Halicarnassus in Bodrum, Turkey, featuring the ruins of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, the Myndos Gate, and the ancient theater, with lush greenery and the blue waters of the Aegean Sea in the background.

    Halicarnassus

    Introduction to Halicarnassus Halicarnassus, known today as Bodrum, is one [...]

    ancient monuments Bodrum, Bodrum, Bodrum Beaches, Bodrum Castle, Bodrum marina, Bodrum nightlife, Halicarnassus, Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, Myndos Gate, Temple of Mars Bodrum, travel Bodrum

  • A breathtaking view of Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia, featuring the iconic fairy chimneys, rock-hewn churches, and an underground city entrance, set against a stunning landscape of valleys and hills under a clear blue sky.

    Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia

    Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia, inscribed [...]

    Byzantine art, Cappadocia hiking trails, Cappadocia tourism, fairy chimneys, Göreme National Park, Göreme Valley, hot air balloon rides Cappadocia, Rock Sites of Cappadocia, Turkey travel guide, underground cities

Explore Ancient Cities of Turkey

Discover the ancient cities of Turkey with our comprehensive guide. Visit the iconic ruins of Ephesus, marvel at the rock-cut temples of Cappadocia, and explore the historical treasures of Troy and Pergamon. Turkey’s rich history and archaeological sites offer a fascinating journey through time. Perfect for history buffs and travelers seeking to uncover the past, these ancient cities provide a glimpse into Turkey’s storied heritage. Start your exploration of Turkey’s ancient wonders today!

Travel Turkey!

Your Ultimate Adventure Awaits

Explore Turkey Now

Discover the best of travel Turkey. Explore top tourism spots, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. From ancient ruins to stunning beaches, find tips on the best destinations, hotels, flights, and tours to make your Turkish adventure unforgettable. Dive into the wonders of tourism in Turkey and plan your perfect trip today!

Top Destinations in Turkey

Explore Turkey’s top destinations, from Istanbul’s vibrant streets to Cappadocia’s unique landscapes and Antalya’s beaches.

A picturesque view of Erzurum, Turkey, featuring the ancient Erzurum Castle, the Twin Minaret Madrasa, and the snowy slopes of Palandöken Mountain.

Erzurum

Erzurum, often called the gateway to Eastern Turkey, is a [...]

Cağ Kebab, cultural heritage, culture, Eastern Anatolia, Eastern Turkey, Erzurum, Erzurum attractions, Erzurum Castle, hidden gem, historical sites, historical sites Turkey, Kadayıf Dolması, Narman Fairy Chimneys, Palandöken, Palandöken Mountain, skiing, things to do in Erzurum, Tortum Waterfall, tourism, travel, travel tips Turkey, Turkey, Turkey travel, Turkish cuisine, Twin Minaret Madrasa, Winter Sports Festival, Yakutiye Madrasa

A panoramic view of Adıyaman, Turkey, showcasing its rich history and natural beauty. The image features the giant stone statues of Mount Nemrut at sunrise, the ancient ruins of Arsameia, and the scenic Atatürk Dam. In the foreground, locals and tourists explore vibrant markets with traditional handicrafts and enjoy local delicacies like Adıyaman Kebab. The background includes lush green landscapes and the historic Cendere Bridge spanning the Cendere River. The sky is clear with a warm sunrise casting a golden glow over the entire scene

Adıyaman

Adıyaman, Turkey, is a hidden treasure in the southeastern region [...]

Adıyaman, Adıyaman Airport, Adıyaman attractions, Adıyaman Kebab, Adıyaman Museum, ancient ruins, Arsameia, Atatürk Dam, Cendere Bridge, Çiğ Köfte, culinary delights, cultural heritage, culture, Gaziantep, hidden gem, historical sites, International Nemrut Kommagene Festival, Kahta, Karakuş Tumulus, local markets, Mount Nemrut, natural beauty, outdoor activities, Perre Ancient City, Şanlıurfa, scenic landscapes, tatlı, things to do in Adıyaman, tourism, traditional handicrafts, travel, Turkey

Vibrant scene in Kayseri, Turkey with Mount Erciyes, historical monuments, and bustling markets.

Kayseri

Kayseri, historically known as Caesarea, is a large city in [...]

Cappadocia, culture, hidden gem, historical sites, historical sites in Kayseri, kayseri, Kayseri attractions, Kayseri cuisine, Kayseri day trips, Kayseri museums, Kayseri natural wonders, Kayseri tourism, Kayseri travel guide, Mount Erciyes, things to do in Kayseri, tourism, travel, travel to Kayseri, Turkey, Turkish baths in Kayseri, visiting Kayseri

Yozgat

Nestled in the heart of Central Anatolia, Yozgat is a [...]

ancient civilizations, Bozok Stadium, Çapanoğlu Mosque, Central Anatolia, Kerkenes Plateau, Kusaklu Tumulus, Ottoman era Yozgat, travel Turkey, Yozgat, Yozgat attractions, Yozgat climate, Yozgat Clock Tower, Yozgat Ethnography Museum, Yozgat history, Yozgat Pine Grove National Park, Yozgat tourism, Yozgat travel guide

A picturesque view of Sinop, Turkey with its historical fortress by the Black Sea, serene coastline, and lush green hills.

Sinop

Sinop, historically known as Sinope, is a picturesque city nestled [...]

Akliman Beach, Alaaddin Mosque, Black Sea coast, Hamsilos Bay, İnceburun Lighthouse, Pervane Medrese, Sinop, Sinop attractions, Sinop culture, Sinop festivals, Sinop Fortress, Sinop Fortress Prison, Sinop history, Sinop local cuisine, Sinop natural beauty, Sinop tourism, Sinop traditional crafts, travel to Sinop, Turkey travel, visit Sinop

Collage showcasing various landmarks and cultural highlights of Şanlıurfa, Turkey, including Göbekli Tepe, Balıklıgöl (Pool of Sacred Fish), Urfa Castle, Harran's beehive houses, and the Şanlıurfa Bazaar.

Şanlıurfa

Şanlıurfa, often referred to as the “City of Prophets,” is [...]

ancient city, Balıklıgöl, Birecik, culture, day trips from Şanlıurfa, Dergah Complex, Göbekli Tepe, Gümrük Han, Harran, hidden gem, historical sites, Şanlıurfa, Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum, Şanlıurfa attractions, Şanlıurfa Bazaar, Şanlıurfa city center, Şanlıurfa cuisine, Şanlıurfa festivals, Şanlıurfa music, Şanlıurfa nights, things to do in Şanlıurfa, tourism, travel, Turkey, Urfa Castle

A picturesque view of Van, Turkey, showcasing the ancient Van Castle near the serene Lake Van.

Van

Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Van, the city [...]

Akdamar Island, Armenian Kingdom of Vaspurakan, culture, Eastern Turkey, hidden gem, historical sites, Hoşap Castle, Kurdish culture, Lake Van, Muradiye Waterfall, nature, things to do in Van, tourism, travel, travel to Van, Turkey, Turkish cuisine, Urartu Kingdom, Van, Van accommodations, Van attractions, Van Castle, Van festivals, Van history, Van Kahvaltısı, Van Museum, Van tourism

A picturesque view of Burdur, Turkey, showcasing the serene Lake Burdur with its calm waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and lush greenery.

Burdur

Nestled in the heart of southwestern Turkey, Burdur is a [...]

ancient history, ancient ruins, Burdur, Burdur Archaeological Museum, Burdur attractions, Burdur Camel Wrestling Festival, Burdur cuisine, Burdur festivals, Burdur International Classical Music Festival, Burdur province, Burdur şiş, Byzantine era, ceviz ezmesi, cultural heritage, culture, Dündar Bey, Early Bronze Age, Grand Mosque, Grand Mosque of Burdur, Hamidids, hidden gem, historical sites, İnsuyu Cave, Kınalı tribe, Lake Burdur, Mediterranean climate, Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, natural landscapes, Oghuz Turks, Ottoman Empire, Pisidia, Polydorion, population exchange, Sagalassos, Salda Lake, Seljuq victory, southwestern Turkey, things to do in Burdur, tourism, travel, travel destination, Turkey, Turkish city, Turkish settlement

Picturesque view of Kırklareli, Turkey, showcasing the historic Hızır Bey Mosque with its single minaret, traditional Ottoman-era houses, and a bustling local market.

Kırklareli

Welcome to Kırklareli, a city rich in history, culture, and [...]

accommodation, Balkan influences, Byzantine Greeks, cultural heritage, Demirköy Foundry, Dupnisa Cave, European Turkey, historical sites, Istranca Mountains, Kırklareli, Kırklareli Museum, local festivals, natural beauty, Ottoman era, outdoor activities, traditional festivals, travel guide, Turkey, Turkish cuisine, vineyards, wineries

A picturesque scene of Mersin, Turkey, showcasing its beautiful Mediterranean coast, bustling marina, and cityscape with modern and historic buildings.

Mersin

Mersin, a bustling port city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is [...]

Adana Şakirpaşa Airport, beaches, Ciğer kebap, culture, day trips, Forum Mersin, Heaven and Hell Sinkholes, hidden gem, historical sites, local bazaars, Mamure Castle, Mediterranean coast, Mersin, Mersin Archaeological Museum, Mersin attractions, Mersin HiltonSA, Mersin International Music Festival, Mersin Marina, Mersin State Opera and Ballet, Soli/Pompeipolis, Tantuni, Tarsus, things to do in Mersin, tourism, travel, Turkey, Yumuktepe Mound

Antalya

Antalya, the jewel of the Turkish Riviera, is a mesmerizing [...]

Antalya, Antalya Aquarium, Antalya attractions, Antalya Bazaar, Antalya Film Festival, Antalya Museum, Antalya nightlife, beaches, cuisine, culture, Düden Waterfalls, Hadrian's Gate, historical sites, Jewel of the Turkish Riviera, Kaleiçi, Konyaaltı Beach, Köprülü Canyon National Park, Lara Beach, Marina District, Mediterranean coast, Mount Tahtalı, Olympos Beach, Perge, piyaz, şiş kebab, tourism, travel, Turkey, Turkish Hammam, Turkish Riviera

A picturesque view of Kastamonu, Turkey featuring historic Ottoman houses and the Governor's historical office.

Kastamonu

Kastamonu: Nestled in the northern region of Turkey, Kastamonu, historically [...]

Atatürk, Central Anatolia, Dress Code Revolution, Kastamonu, Kastamonu architecture, Kastamonu attractions, Kastamonu climate, Kastamonu cuisine, Kastamonu educational institutions, Kastamonu history, Kastamonu travel, Kastamonu University, kuyu kebabı, Ottoman houses, Paphlagonia, Sheikh Shaban Veli, Turkey, Turkish cities

Historic Cities of Turkey

Miletus

Smyrna

Çatalhöyük

Lotape

Termessos

Stratonikeia

Sagalassos

Phaselis

Hattusa

Aspendos

Kalamaki

Xanthos