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Cultural and creative hubs for history buffs

From the shores of the Bosphorus to the Anatolian highlands, Türkiye is a hub of creative renewal. Once known mostly for its ancient sites, it now captivates with state-of-the-art museums, vibrant cultural centers, and innovative architectural developments that honor centuries of tradition while heralding a new era in the arts.

In İstanbul, the reimagined Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) has reclaimed itself as a premier stage for opera, theater, and concerts. Extensive renovations in 2021 signified a commitment to making culture accessible, contemporary, and inclusive. The İstanbul Archaeological Museums, thoughtfully restored, spotlight spectacular antiquities and rare cultural milestones. Imagine seeing the world’s oldest known love poem, the first recorded peace treaty, the Alexander Sarcophagus, and countless other artifacts illuminating early human civilization.

In the Karaköy district, İstanbul Modern, Türkiye’s first modern art museum, shines in the heart of the Galataport. Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, this sleek museum anchors the historic waterfront as a world-class platform for modern art.

Beyond İstanbul, in Eskişehir, the Odunpazarı Modern Museum fuses bold architecture with dynamic contemporary exhibitions, spotlighting emerging Turkish artists. In Gaziantep, the expansive Zeugma Mosaic Museum preserves millennia-old mosaic artistry, featuring the renowned “Gypsy Girl,” whose enigmatic gaze has become a cultural emblem. In the highlands of Bayburt, the Baksı Museum bridges traditional handcrafts and contemporary art, stimulating cultural development beyond gallery walls.

Another highlight in Türkiye’s rich cultural portfolio is the world-class Museum of Troy, located at the Ancient City of Troy entrance in Çanakkale. In recognition of its outstanding contributions to cultural preservation and education, the Museum of Troy was honored with the 2020 European Museum of the Year Special Appreciation Award and the European Museum Academy Special Award.

Göbeklitepe in Şanlıurfa, a UNESCO-listed site, stands as the first human-made monumental structure, offering visitors a profound glimpse into early human civilization. This archaeological marvel, dating back almost 12.000 years, features massive stone pillars arranged in circular formations, intricately carved with animal motifs and abstract symbols. Göbeklitepe showcases the remarkable creativity of ancient civilizations, transforming our understanding of early societies.

Across the country, from galleries featuring emerging talent to ancient ruins whispering tales of past civilizations, these cultural spaces showcase Türkiye’s creative scene, where ancient wonders coexist with avant-garde expressions of art, design, and culture. Delve deeper into this fusion of innovation and tradition, and you’ll find not just a travel destination, but a living canvas that continually inspires and awakens the senses. Discover more at GoTürkiye.

Things to consider before traveling

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Some tips to consider while traveling

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