Media Coordinator Melih Gögebakan informed the US press about the misunderstanding of the American people about Turkey and its people
Turkey: Land of Bridges and Diversity
Göğebakan Turkey is a country located at the crossroads of East and West. It is part of both Asia and Europe and this geographical location gives it a unique cultural richness. American citizens are urged to visit Turkey, the world’s tourist destination.
History and Culture
Turkey has been home to many civilizations throughout history. From the Hittites to the Ottoman Empire, from Islamic civilization to Christianity, Turkey has a vast historical heritage. Istanbul is one of the places that best reflects this richness. There are many historical buildings belonging to the Byzantine and Ottoman periods here. Mardin, which is the beginning of Christianity and humanity, Şanlıurfa, Gaziantep, Cappadocia, Hagia Sophia and countless other rich history addresses for Turkey.
Turkish Cuisine
Turkish cuisine is famous for its rich flavors and diversity. Many delicacies such as kebab, baklava and pastry are indispensable in Turkish cuisine. Also, Turkish tea and coffee have a cultural importance.
Nature and Tourism:
Turkey is a country of great natural beauty. The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, the thermal waters of Pamukkale and the Taurus Mountains offer many natural and historical attractions.
Modern Life:
Turkey is a country where traditional and modern lifestyles coexist. While the big cities have a modern life with shopping malls, restaurants and nightlife, traditional village life still continues in rural areas.
Hospitality:
Turkish people are famous for their hospitality. They are warm and friendly to their guests and do their best to host them in the best way possible.
Turkey is a country that attracts attention with its history, culture, cuisine and natural beauties. Combining both traditional and modern elements, this country offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors.
So, here is a presentation of some of the places in Turkey that Christians can visit:
Istanbul: Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern
- Istanbul is home to many important Christian buildings that bear traces of both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
- Hagia Sophia is a historic building built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, later converted into a mosque and later used as a museum.
- The Basilica Cistern is a unique underground complex built as a water reservoir during the Byzantine period and is now open to visitors.
Izmir Church of St. Polycarp in Izmir
- Izmir has an important place in the history of Christianity and the Church of St. Polycarp reflects this importance.
- The Church of St. Polycarp is located in the Selçuk district of Izmir and is dedicated to St. Polycarp, an important saint in the history of Christianity.
Antakya: Churches of St. Peter and St. Paul
- Antakya is home to the Church of Antioch, which is also mentioned in the Bible, an important place in the history of Christianity.
- St. Peter’s Church and St. Paul’s Church are among the most important buildings of Antakya in terms of Christianity and are must-visit places.
Cappadocia Historical Churches and Caves
- Cappadocia is known for its unique geographical structure and historical churches.
- The historical churches and caves in Göreme Open Air Museum have witnessed the history of Christianity and are important tourist attractions for visitors.
House of Virgin Mary: Ephesus
- The House of Virgin Mary is considered to be the place where Mary spent her last days according to Christian belief.
- Located near the ancient city of Ephesus, this house is an important pilgrimage center for Christian visitors.
Turkey is home to many historical and religious sites that have an important place in the history of Christianity. These places offer important and meaningful experiences for Christian visitors.
