http://www.eltcafe.net/ Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:06:20 +0300 MyBB http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3947 Sun, 10 May 2009 16:08:04 +0300 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3947 Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

Wroclaw TOURISM
Wroclaw is the principal city of Lower Silesia, a voivodship situated in the south-western corner of Poland, adjoining the German and Czech territories. Its population of 660,000 makes it the fourth largest city in Poland.

The Old Town is comparable to Krakow's in beauty and size, and includes the Gothic St. John's Cathedral, the Renaissance houses near the Market Square, the Baroque university and lots of fine examples of Art Nouveau and Functionalism.

Apart from these sights, Wroclaw captivates with its marvellous location on the Odra River, its branches and tributaries that have resulted in a great number of bridges needed to join the islands. Despite Wroclaw's failure to become the host city for the Expo exhibition in 2002, it has undergone a significant boom in terms of tourism. The intense promotion of the city resulted in a rising number of visitors.

The uniqueness of the city is due in part to its long and entangled history. Situated on the interface between ethnically diverse areas, Wroclaw has been part of the Polish, Czech, Austrian and German states. It has inherited the spirit of German Breslau (a previous name of Wroclaw), which partly disappeared when the Germans left the city, and that of Polish Lwow, whose population was resettled here after World War II. Wroclaw is also an important cultural and academic centre of the region, with a large student community that animates the city’s nightlife.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

GEOGRAPHY
Wroclaw is picturesquely located on several rivers: the Odra and the smaller tributaries Olawa, Sleza, Bystrzyca and Widawa. Consequently, the city lies on 12 islands linked by many bridges. The Cathedral Island, the first Slavic settlement site, is no longer an island as a branch of the Odra was filled in. Wroclaw is the capital of Lower Silesia, one of Poland's voivodships. The region to the north is characterised by flatlands and is predominantly rural, while to the south Lower Silesia is bordered by the Sudeten Mountains – a popular tourist destination in winter and in summer.

Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

HISTORY
The history of Wroclaw is one of tumultuous and dramatic events. It began in the 10th century on Ostrow Tumski (the Cathedral Island) where Czechs founded the first town. Wroclaw then came under Polish rule, brought about by Prince Mieszko I in the 10th century. In 1000 it was already quite a large stronghold and the seat of a bishopric. After the Tatars invaded Poland, the town was moved to the left bank of the Odra River and rebuilt on a pattern that has survived to the present day... ]]> Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

Wroclaw TOURISM
Wroclaw is the principal city of Lower Silesia, a voivodship situated in the south-western corner of Poland, adjoining the German and Czech territories. Its population of 660,000 makes it the fourth largest city in Poland.

The Old Town is comparable to Krakow's in beauty and size, and includes the Gothic St. John's Cathedral, the Renaissance houses near the Market Square, the Baroque university and lots of fine examples of Art Nouveau and Functionalism.

Apart from these sights, Wroclaw captivates with its marvellous location on the Odra River, its branches and tributaries that have resulted in a great number of bridges needed to join the islands. Despite Wroclaw's failure to become the host city for the Expo exhibition in 2002, it has undergone a significant boom in terms of tourism. The intense promotion of the city resulted in a rising number of visitors.

The uniqueness of the city is due in part to its long and entangled history. Situated on the interface between ethnically diverse areas, Wroclaw has been part of the Polish, Czech, Austrian and German states. It has inherited the spirit of German Breslau (a previous name of Wroclaw), which partly disappeared when the Germans left the city, and that of Polish Lwow, whose population was resettled here after World War II. Wroclaw is also an important cultural and academic centre of the region, with a large student community that animates the city’s nightlife.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

GEOGRAPHY
Wroclaw is picturesquely located on several rivers: the Odra and the smaller tributaries Olawa, Sleza, Bystrzyca and Widawa. Consequently, the city lies on 12 islands linked by many bridges. The Cathedral Island, the first Slavic settlement site, is no longer an island as a branch of the Odra was filled in. Wroclaw is the capital of Lower Silesia, one of Poland's voivodships. The region to the north is characterised by flatlands and is predominantly rural, while to the south Lower Silesia is bordered by the Sudeten Mountains – a popular tourist destination in winter and in summer.

Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

HISTORY
The history of Wroclaw is one of tumultuous and dramatic events. It began in the 10th century on Ostrow Tumski (the Cathedral Island) where Czechs founded the first town. Wroclaw then came under Polish rule, brought about by Prince Mieszko I in the 10th century. In 1000 it was already quite a large stronghold and the seat of a bishopric. After the Tatars invaded Poland, the town was moved to the left bank of the Odra River and rebuilt on a pattern that has survived to the present day... ]]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3946 Sun, 10 May 2009 15:59:08 +0300 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3946 Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

Gdansk TOURISM
Situated on the coast of the Baltic Sea, Gdansk is the capital city of Pomeranian Voivodship. Together with two other cities, Sopot and Gdynia, it forms a conurbation known as the Tricity with a total population of 750,000 (Gdansk itself has 470,000 inhabitants). While Gdynia serves mainly as a port and Sopot as a seaside resort, Gdansk is popular among visitors with its thousand-year history and impressive architecture.

Its Old Town attracts almost as many people as that of Krakow or Warsaw. In the past the city enjoyed a high degree of autonomy, which together with its participation in Hanseatic League, led to great prosperity. During its Golden Age, the turnover of Gdansk was bigger than that of London's East India Company. Later periods in Gdansk’s history were complicated and sometimes even dramatic.

At present this maritime capital of Poland is an important cultural and academic centre. The economy is developing quickly and moving into new fields: the traditional shipping and amber trade is being joined by the petrochemical, electronic and telecommunication industries. The seaport and international airport make the city a significant transport hub.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

GEOGRAPHY
Gdansk is situated on the coast of the Gdansk Bay, a part of the Baltic Sea enclosed in the north by the Hel peninsula. While the Vistula River has no distinct delta, it has formed several branches reaching the sea. One of them is the Motlawa, upon which the city is located. The granaries, houses, cranes and hotels on the islands of the Motlawa make it a very picturesque place to visit.

Gdansk has close links with Sopot (a popular spa resort) and Gdynia (an important seaport), and together they form a conurbation known as the Tricity, surrounded by the Tricity Landscape Park. All three lie in the Pomerania region, an attractive summer holiday destination where visitors from both Poland and abroad people the beaches in summer. Pomerania is marked by its small sandy hills wooded with pines, while Gdansk itself lies on a coastal plain. The Kaszuby region (Kashubia) is not far to the south, noted for its specific folk culture and its own language.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

HISTORY
Gdansk's past has several characteristic features: a long tradition of being a free city, the multinational mix of Polish and German cultures and close relations with Western Europe as one of the main ports of the Baltic region. The first records of this town date back to 997, when St. Adalbert, the bishop of Prague, visited it as part of his Christian mission in Pomerania. Gdansk, originally ruled by the dukes of Pomerania, was soon settled by Germans. From the 14th the town was occupied by the Teutonic Knights, who turned it into a major trade centre, renamed Danzig.

The real prosperity of Gdansk dates from 1361, when it joined the Hanseatic League, a mercantile organisation that controlled the whole area of the North and Baltic Sea. The favourable position on the route from Krakow to the sea enabled the rapid development of the city, making it one of the most powerful Hanseatic centres. From here grain and wood were exported to other parts of Europe. After Poland defeated the Teutonic Knights in the 15th century, Gdansk became Polish once more. It enjoyed a remarkable degree of political independence and many privileges to support its economic growth. It attracted many foreigners, including merchants and the refugees enchanted by its religious tolerance (a large Scottish community arrived in Gdansk during this period). The Golden Age of the city continued into the 17th century.

In 1793 Gdansk became part of Prussia for over a hundred years, with the short break in 1807-1815 when the Free City of Danzig was founded during the Napoleonic era. In the 19th century it became further Germanised, and the economy and industry continued to grow. After World War I, under the Treaty of Versailles, Gdansk became a Free City again, this time under the protection of the League of Nations.

During the 1930s it witnessed the growing influence of Nazism, described by Nobel Prize winner Gunter Grass in his novel The Tin Drum. The Nazis demanded greater control over Pomerania and Gdansk, using it as a pretext for starting World War II: in 1939 the Germans attacked Westerplatte, a Polish military position near Gdansk. After six years of Nazi occupation, the Red Army arrived in 1945, with Gdansk suffering great destruction during the resulting battle. The surviving Germans began to leave the city, being replaced by Poles predominantly from Wilno (now Vilnius, Lithuania) after the latter became part of the Soviet Union. The Old Town was rebuilt in the 1950s and 1960s.

1970 was marked by riots in the streets of Gdansk, starting with the shipyard workers protesting against government policy. The demonstrations led to the resignation of the communist leader, Wladyslaw Gomulka, but the price was high: the army killed over 80 people. The strikes were repeated in 1976 and again in 1980, when the workers of the shipyard founded the Solidarity trade union, the first legal opposition to the communist rule. It was the first step to the independence of Poland and to the end of Communism in Central and Eastern Europe.

Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...]]> Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

Gdansk TOURISM
Situated on the coast of the Baltic Sea, Gdansk is the capital city of Pomeranian Voivodship. Together with two other cities, Sopot and Gdynia, it forms a conurbation known as the Tricity with a total population of 750,000 (Gdansk itself has 470,000 inhabitants). While Gdynia serves mainly as a port and Sopot as a seaside resort, Gdansk is popular among visitors with its thousand-year history and impressive architecture.

Its Old Town attracts almost as many people as that of Krakow or Warsaw. In the past the city enjoyed a high degree of autonomy, which together with its participation in Hanseatic League, led to great prosperity. During its Golden Age, the turnover of Gdansk was bigger than that of London's East India Company. Later periods in Gdansk’s history were complicated and sometimes even dramatic.

At present this maritime capital of Poland is an important cultural and academic centre. The economy is developing quickly and moving into new fields: the traditional shipping and amber trade is being joined by the petrochemical, electronic and telecommunication industries. The seaport and international airport make the city a significant transport hub.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

GEOGRAPHY
Gdansk is situated on the coast of the Gdansk Bay, a part of the Baltic Sea enclosed in the north by the Hel peninsula. While the Vistula River has no distinct delta, it has formed several branches reaching the sea. One of them is the Motlawa, upon which the city is located. The granaries, houses, cranes and hotels on the islands of the Motlawa make it a very picturesque place to visit.

Gdansk has close links with Sopot (a popular spa resort) and Gdynia (an important seaport), and together they form a conurbation known as the Tricity, surrounded by the Tricity Landscape Park. All three lie in the Pomerania region, an attractive summer holiday destination where visitors from both Poland and abroad people the beaches in summer. Pomerania is marked by its small sandy hills wooded with pines, while Gdansk itself lies on a coastal plain. The Kaszuby region (Kashubia) is not far to the south, noted for its specific folk culture and its own language.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

HISTORY
Gdansk's past has several characteristic features: a long tradition of being a free city, the multinational mix of Polish and German cultures and close relations with Western Europe as one of the main ports of the Baltic region. The first records of this town date back to 997, when St. Adalbert, the bishop of Prague, visited it as part of his Christian mission in Pomerania. Gdansk, originally ruled by the dukes of Pomerania, was soon settled by Germans. From the 14th the town was occupied by the Teutonic Knights, who turned it into a major trade centre, renamed Danzig.

The real prosperity of Gdansk dates from 1361, when it joined the Hanseatic League, a mercantile organisation that controlled the whole area of the North and Baltic Sea. The favourable position on the route from Krakow to the sea enabled the rapid development of the city, making it one of the most powerful Hanseatic centres. From here grain and wood were exported to other parts of Europe. After Poland defeated the Teutonic Knights in the 15th century, Gdansk became Polish once more. It enjoyed a remarkable degree of political independence and many privileges to support its economic growth. It attracted many foreigners, including merchants and the refugees enchanted by its religious tolerance (a large Scottish community arrived in Gdansk during this period). The Golden Age of the city continued into the 17th century.

In 1793 Gdansk became part of Prussia for over a hundred years, with the short break in 1807-1815 when the Free City of Danzig was founded during the Napoleonic era. In the 19th century it became further Germanised, and the economy and industry continued to grow. After World War I, under the Treaty of Versailles, Gdansk became a Free City again, this time under the protection of the League of Nations.

During the 1930s it witnessed the growing influence of Nazism, described by Nobel Prize winner Gunter Grass in his novel The Tin Drum. The Nazis demanded greater control over Pomerania and Gdansk, using it as a pretext for starting World War II: in 1939 the Germans attacked Westerplatte, a Polish military position near Gdansk. After six years of Nazi occupation, the Red Army arrived in 1945, with Gdansk suffering great destruction during the resulting battle. The surviving Germans began to leave the city, being replaced by Poles predominantly from Wilno (now Vilnius, Lithuania) after the latter became part of the Soviet Union. The Old Town was rebuilt in the 1950s and 1960s.

1970 was marked by riots in the streets of Gdansk, starting with the shipyard workers protesting against government policy. The demonstrations led to the resignation of the communist leader, Wladyslaw Gomulka, but the price was high: the army killed over 80 people. The strikes were repeated in 1976 and again in 1980, when the workers of the shipyard founded the Solidarity trade union, the first legal opposition to the communist rule. It was the first step to the independence of Poland and to the end of Communism in Central and Eastern Europe.

Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...]]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3945 Sun, 10 May 2009 15:51:05 +0300 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3945 Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Szczecin TOURISM
Szczecin, a city of about 400,000 people, ranks among the largest towns in Poland. It is also the biggest urban area in the north-western part of the country and the capital of the province. Its location in the top left corner of Poland’s map, together with its strong cultural and economic links with Germany, makes it an important commercial and transit centre.

Apart from being a traditional junction of main European routes, Szczecin is considered to be a crucial seaport, closely connected with the nearby Swinoujscie port and a large shipbuilding centre. While Szczecin attracts mostly business travellers, it can also form an interesting tourist destination. Several enchanting sights, the many parks, and the impressive number of bars are Szczecin’s main attractions.

Its architecture is often compared with Paris, as the heart of the city is a star-shaped square, with diverging avenues. There is another reason for making the comparison with Paris – Baron G.E. Haussmann, who created a town-planning project for the French capital, also designed Szczecin.

Apart from the forests surrounding the city, there are other attractive areas in the vicinity – the seaside resorts of Miedzyzdroje and Rewal, the picturesque Wolin Island, and Swinoujscie with its ferries to Sweden and Denmark.

Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
GEOGRAPHY
The city of Szczecin is situated close to several large expanses of open water. The Baltic Sea is within an hour’s driving, the Szczecin Lagoon, a part of the Baltic almost cut off from the open sea with a series of islands, is even closer, while to the east the city is almost surrounded by Lake Dabie. Szczecin is on the delta of the Odra River, and several of the Odra's confluents flow through the city. The German-Polish frontier is close to Szczecin, and Berlin is only 120 km away. The closest border crossings are in Kolbaskowo, Rosowek and Lubieszyn.

Szczecin is called the green city, but this is not restricted to the city itself as some local areas are very attractive, especially three vast local forests. These consist of Beech Forest (Puszcza Bukowa) with the Emerald Lake, Wkrzanska Forest and Goleniowska Forest. Lake Dabie, one of the biggest lakes in Poland, is also a great local recreational resource.

Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

HISTORY
Szczecin is a city where the historical and cultural achievements are shared by more than one nationality. Its beginnings go back to the 8th century, when the Castle Height was inhabited by Slavonic settlers who established a borough there. For a long time Szczecin belonged to the dukes of Western Pomerania, a branch of Piast dynasty that ruled in Poland. They built a strong autonomous state and Szczecin became a member of the Hanseatic League. The crucial milestone in its history was the location act of 1243, which introduced town rights under the Magdeburg Law model.

The next momentous point in Szczecin’s history was 1648, when Western Pomerania found itself divided between Sweden and Brandenburg after the death of the last Pomeranian prince during the Thirty Years War (1618 – 1648). Szczecin itself passed into Swedish hands for almost a century, and this surprisingly resulted in the downfall of the town. As the Prussians wanted sea borne trade free from Swedish customs taxes, they dredged the Swina River and built a new seaport in Swinoujscie.

In 1720, after the great North War, Szczecin became part of Prussia. The new authorities transformed the city into an important military centre, strengthened with fortifications. During the Napoleonic wars it passed to the French, becoming an important fortress in the process.

In the 19th century Prussia once more stimulated the economic growth of the city, introducing several reforms that included industrial and professional freedom and the emancipation from customs barriers within the country. The Szczecin-Berlin railroad line was constructed in 1843, making Szczecin yet more attractive as a trade centre. This attracted many investors, helping to develop the shipbuilding industry. The second half of the 19th century saw the rapid development of several branches of industry partly due to the city's close connections with the seaport. In 1913 a canal connecting Szczecin with Berlin was opened, and which guaranteed more cargo for the harbour.

In April 1945, the 65th Russian Army conquered Szczecin and it then passed to Polish administration in July 1945. The city, now on the newly established Polish western border, had survived the war with little damage. Although the former image of the city changed, its unique character was preserved with the captivating charm of its historical secessionist architecture and the beauty of its lush vegetation.


'staypoland']]> Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Szczecin TOURISM
Szczecin, a city of about 400,000 people, ranks among the largest towns in Poland. It is also the biggest urban area in the north-western part of the country and the capital of the province. Its location in the top left corner of Poland’s map, together with its strong cultural and economic links with Germany, makes it an important commercial and transit centre.

Apart from being a traditional junction of main European routes, Szczecin is considered to be a crucial seaport, closely connected with the nearby Swinoujscie port and a large shipbuilding centre. While Szczecin attracts mostly business travellers, it can also form an interesting tourist destination. Several enchanting sights, the many parks, and the impressive number of bars are Szczecin’s main attractions.

Its architecture is often compared with Paris, as the heart of the city is a star-shaped square, with diverging avenues. There is another reason for making the comparison with Paris – Baron G.E. Haussmann, who created a town-planning project for the French capital, also designed Szczecin.

Apart from the forests surrounding the city, there are other attractive areas in the vicinity – the seaside resorts of Miedzyzdroje and Rewal, the picturesque Wolin Island, and Swinoujscie with its ferries to Sweden and Denmark.

Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
GEOGRAPHY
The city of Szczecin is situated close to several large expanses of open water. The Baltic Sea is within an hour’s driving, the Szczecin Lagoon, a part of the Baltic almost cut off from the open sea with a series of islands, is even closer, while to the east the city is almost surrounded by Lake Dabie. Szczecin is on the delta of the Odra River, and several of the Odra's confluents flow through the city. The German-Polish frontier is close to Szczecin, and Berlin is only 120 km away. The closest border crossings are in Kolbaskowo, Rosowek and Lubieszyn.

Szczecin is called the green city, but this is not restricted to the city itself as some local areas are very attractive, especially three vast local forests. These consist of Beech Forest (Puszcza Bukowa) with the Emerald Lake, Wkrzanska Forest and Goleniowska Forest. Lake Dabie, one of the biggest lakes in Poland, is also a great local recreational resource.

Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...

HISTORY
Szczecin is a city where the historical and cultural achievements are shared by more than one nationality. Its beginnings go back to the 8th century, when the Castle Height was inhabited by Slavonic settlers who established a borough there. For a long time Szczecin belonged to the dukes of Western Pomerania, a branch of Piast dynasty that ruled in Poland. They built a strong autonomous state and Szczecin became a member of the Hanseatic League. The crucial milestone in its history was the location act of 1243, which introduced town rights under the Magdeburg Law model.

The next momentous point in Szczecin’s history was 1648, when Western Pomerania found itself divided between Sweden and Brandenburg after the death of the last Pomeranian prince during the Thirty Years War (1618 – 1648). Szczecin itself passed into Swedish hands for almost a century, and this surprisingly resulted in the downfall of the town. As the Prussians wanted sea borne trade free from Swedish customs taxes, they dredged the Swina River and built a new seaport in Swinoujscie.

In 1720, after the great North War, Szczecin became part of Prussia. The new authorities transformed the city into an important military centre, strengthened with fortifications. During the Napoleonic wars it passed to the French, becoming an important fortress in the process.

In the 19th century Prussia once more stimulated the economic growth of the city, introducing several reforms that included industrial and professional freedom and the emancipation from customs barriers within the country. The Szczecin-Berlin railroad line was constructed in 1843, making Szczecin yet more attractive as a trade centre. This attracted many investors, helping to develop the shipbuilding industry. The second half of the 19th century saw the rapid development of several branches of industry partly due to the city's close connections with the seaport. In 1913 a canal connecting Szczecin with Berlin was opened, and which guaranteed more cargo for the harbour.

In April 1945, the 65th Russian Army conquered Szczecin and it then passed to Polish administration in July 1945. The city, now on the newly established Polish western border, had survived the war with little damage. Although the former image of the city changed, its unique character was preserved with the captivating charm of its historical secessionist architecture and the beauty of its lush vegetation.


'staypoland']]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3527 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 21:18:10 +0300 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3527
[attachment=521]

Topkapi Palace museum is an important stopover for any visitor to Istanbul. The palace, which was the home for generations of Turkish Sultans, truly unravels the mysteries of the Ottoman Empire.

The Topkapi Palace is humble in its architecture and simple in style. It is a place worth visiting for it gives you a panoramic insight to the life and times of the Turkish sultans across generations.

[attachment=522]

History of Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was built by Sultan Mehmed II after he conquered Constantinople in 1453. The first palace constructed by him at the site of the Istanbul University, soon proved inadequate to meet the demands of Sultan`s administration. Thus, he ordered another palace to be constructed at the site of the Byzantine acropolis, with the Golden Horn, the Seraglio and the Sea of Marmara encircling it.

The palace was walled off from the city to provide the necessary security and privacy. The Topkapi Palace was not only the residence of the Sultans, it was also the administrative center from where all the judicial and executive functions were carried out. Later it also became a seat of art and culture.

Over the centuries, the palace underwent many changes with additions being made to the original structure. Parts of the palace building were often destroyed due to fire or earthquakes and constant restoration work took place. Each Sultan that repaired a portion of the Topkapi Palace did it according to his own style or the architectural style prevalent at the time. It has thus evolved to its present form over the centuries and some of the older construction can only be seen in the earlier paintings or miniatures. The last building was added by Sultan Abdulmecid who later abandoned it to live in the newly constructed palace on the Bosphorus.

Today the Topkapi Palace is still a remarkable sight with its minarets, turrets and domes. It covers an enormous area of 173 acres which houses garden courtyards, kitchens, armory, workshops, baths, offices, halls and residential areas. Once it was a small city where thousands of people lived. In 1923, it was renovated once again to convert it to a museum that has today become one of Istanbul`s most popular sights.

[attachment=523]

Inside Topkapi Palace

Just outside the Topkapi Palace, before you enter it, you will see the fountain of Sultan Ahmet III - a beautiful baroque structure. On four sides of the fountain are four taps and at each corner a `sebli` for distribution of water to thirsty travelers. You then enter the first portal or The Court of Murad II .On either side of this, is a tower called the Bab-i H`mayun. This portal was once guarded by special guards and it is said that sometimes severed heads of traitors were displayed here. This portal housed the several service buildings and administrative offices, the armory, and the Byzantine Samson Hospital.

Next to this, you will find the Hagia Eirene. This was one of the oldest churches of Constantinople. This church was once burnt down in the Nika Rebellion and then rebuilt by Justinian. After the conquest, it was used as the armory with a large collection of weapons. Ultimately, in the 19th century, it became the first Turkish military museum. The museum was later moved elsewhere and the Haghia Eirene has since become a concert hall.

From the church, you will go down the hill to the G`lhane Park or the former palace gardens. There is much to see here. At the entrance, you will find the Ceremonial Pavilion from where Mahmud II watched processions. As you go halfway down the hill you come to the Tiled Pavilion This was one of the finest buildings to be made by Mehmet II. The entire building is made of blue and turquoise tiles. Designed in the Seljuk Art form, it is striking in its effect. Today it is aptly converted into a ceramics museum where fine ceramics right from 12th century onwards are on display.

On your way, you can see another monument called the Gothic monument, so called because it was erected after a victory over the Goths. Near the water`s edge is the International Press Center that was originally a pavilion for basket weavers.

[attachment=524]

Your next visit would be the Harem at Topkapi Palace, which you enter through the second courtyard. You will have to buy a ticket to enter the Harem. Limited numbers of visitors are allowed to enter at a time. You have to pass through the Divan Odasi to reach the Harem. This area served as a transition between the public and the private parts of the Topkapi Palace. The harems of the Turkish rulers were cloaked in mystery and intrigue. The Sultan`s family members as well as his several concubines and consorts were housed here. Black eunuchs were employed to guard the inmates. The inhabitants of the harem were shut off from the outside world and no one from outside was allowed to enter. Today, only a part of the Harem is open to visitors. You will mainly see a labyrinth of rooms and corridors. The architecture here is based primarily on the theme of sexuality.

[attachment=525]

You next proceed to the museum. The entrance is the Orta Kopi or Babusselam that is the central gate. At one time executions were carried out inside this gate and the heads exhibited on blocks of stone. You may find it difficult to imagine this today as you pass through the gate. The museum houses some of the original kitchen equipment from the Topkapi Palace, and the largest collection of porcelain and glassware in the world.

From here, you enter the third courtyard through the Gate of Felicity. This brings you to the most private part of the palace to which, only the Sultan and his closest associates were allowed entry. The gate was fiercely guarded by white eunuchs. Royal ceremonies like coronations were held at this gate. Once you enter, you get to see the audience chamber where foreign ambassadors were received and the Grand Vizier came to present his resolutions. You must proceed to see the treasury, which exhibits priceless objects like jeweled thrones, ornate daggers and baskets of emeralds. In the building on the opposite side, you will find the finest collection of miniatures. Passing on from there you will find many fine pavilions built by various Sultans. The pavilion of Sultan Abdulmecit is now a restaurant, which may be a welcome sight to hungry tourists.

[attachment=526]]]>
[attachment=521]

Topkapi Palace museum is an important stopover for any visitor to Istanbul. The palace, which was the home for generations of Turkish Sultans, truly unravels the mysteries of the Ottoman Empire.

The Topkapi Palace is humble in its architecture and simple in style. It is a place worth visiting for it gives you a panoramic insight to the life and times of the Turkish sultans across generations.

[attachment=522]

History of Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was built by Sultan Mehmed II after he conquered Constantinople in 1453. The first palace constructed by him at the site of the Istanbul University, soon proved inadequate to meet the demands of Sultan`s administration. Thus, he ordered another palace to be constructed at the site of the Byzantine acropolis, with the Golden Horn, the Seraglio and the Sea of Marmara encircling it.

The palace was walled off from the city to provide the necessary security and privacy. The Topkapi Palace was not only the residence of the Sultans, it was also the administrative center from where all the judicial and executive functions were carried out. Later it also became a seat of art and culture.

Over the centuries, the palace underwent many changes with additions being made to the original structure. Parts of the palace building were often destroyed due to fire or earthquakes and constant restoration work took place. Each Sultan that repaired a portion of the Topkapi Palace did it according to his own style or the architectural style prevalent at the time. It has thus evolved to its present form over the centuries and some of the older construction can only be seen in the earlier paintings or miniatures. The last building was added by Sultan Abdulmecid who later abandoned it to live in the newly constructed palace on the Bosphorus.

Today the Topkapi Palace is still a remarkable sight with its minarets, turrets and domes. It covers an enormous area of 173 acres which houses garden courtyards, kitchens, armory, workshops, baths, offices, halls and residential areas. Once it was a small city where thousands of people lived. In 1923, it was renovated once again to convert it to a museum that has today become one of Istanbul`s most popular sights.

[attachment=523]

Inside Topkapi Palace

Just outside the Topkapi Palace, before you enter it, you will see the fountain of Sultan Ahmet III - a beautiful baroque structure. On four sides of the fountain are four taps and at each corner a `sebli` for distribution of water to thirsty travelers. You then enter the first portal or The Court of Murad II .On either side of this, is a tower called the Bab-i H`mayun. This portal was once guarded by special guards and it is said that sometimes severed heads of traitors were displayed here. This portal housed the several service buildings and administrative offices, the armory, and the Byzantine Samson Hospital.

Next to this, you will find the Hagia Eirene. This was one of the oldest churches of Constantinople. This church was once burnt down in the Nika Rebellion and then rebuilt by Justinian. After the conquest, it was used as the armory with a large collection of weapons. Ultimately, in the 19th century, it became the first Turkish military museum. The museum was later moved elsewhere and the Haghia Eirene has since become a concert hall.

From the church, you will go down the hill to the G`lhane Park or the former palace gardens. There is much to see here. At the entrance, you will find the Ceremonial Pavilion from where Mahmud II watched processions. As you go halfway down the hill you come to the Tiled Pavilion This was one of the finest buildings to be made by Mehmet II. The entire building is made of blue and turquoise tiles. Designed in the Seljuk Art form, it is striking in its effect. Today it is aptly converted into a ceramics museum where fine ceramics right from 12th century onwards are on display.

On your way, you can see another monument called the Gothic monument, so called because it was erected after a victory over the Goths. Near the water`s edge is the International Press Center that was originally a pavilion for basket weavers.

[attachment=524]

Your next visit would be the Harem at Topkapi Palace, which you enter through the second courtyard. You will have to buy a ticket to enter the Harem. Limited numbers of visitors are allowed to enter at a time. You have to pass through the Divan Odasi to reach the Harem. This area served as a transition between the public and the private parts of the Topkapi Palace. The harems of the Turkish rulers were cloaked in mystery and intrigue. The Sultan`s family members as well as his several concubines and consorts were housed here. Black eunuchs were employed to guard the inmates. The inhabitants of the harem were shut off from the outside world and no one from outside was allowed to enter. Today, only a part of the Harem is open to visitors. You will mainly see a labyrinth of rooms and corridors. The architecture here is based primarily on the theme of sexuality.

[attachment=525]

You next proceed to the museum. The entrance is the Orta Kopi or Babusselam that is the central gate. At one time executions were carried out inside this gate and the heads exhibited on blocks of stone. You may find it difficult to imagine this today as you pass through the gate. The museum houses some of the original kitchen equipment from the Topkapi Palace, and the largest collection of porcelain and glassware in the world.

From here, you enter the third courtyard through the Gate of Felicity. This brings you to the most private part of the palace to which, only the Sultan and his closest associates were allowed entry. The gate was fiercely guarded by white eunuchs. Royal ceremonies like coronations were held at this gate. Once you enter, you get to see the audience chamber where foreign ambassadors were received and the Grand Vizier came to present his resolutions. You must proceed to see the treasury, which exhibits priceless objects like jeweled thrones, ornate daggers and baskets of emeralds. In the building on the opposite side, you will find the finest collection of miniatures. Passing on from there you will find many fine pavilions built by various Sultans. The pavilion of Sultan Abdulmecit is now a restaurant, which may be a welcome sight to hungry tourists.

[attachment=526]]]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3525 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 20:38:24 +0300 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3525
Kiz Kulesi (or Maiden`s Tower or Leander`s Tower), the age-old symbol of love and romance, happens to be the landmark of Turkey. The Maiden`s Tower features in just about every work of art on Turkey. Framed in pictures and paintings, it has many compositions dedicated to its glory. Its appearance as the secret hideout of the villainous Elektra in the James Bond movie `The World Is Not Enough`, gives a clue to the immense charm it holds for millions across the globe.

[attachment=513]

Legend of Maiden's Tower

The stone structure appearing in each and every pictorial treatise of Istanbul (rather Turkey), has two very captivating tales associated with it. The name `Maiden`s Tower` has its roots in the more popular story relating a maiden`s misfortune. According to this tale, a beautiful Byzantine princess was once quartered in this tower. It is said that soothsayers had predicted her early death by snakebite. Her father, Emperor Constantine who loved her dearly, built an extended castle (near the spot where the present tower exists) and placed her there to avert the fatal end. Eventually the girl died of snakebite, which entered the castle in a grape basket.

The other story doing the rounds links it to the Leander-Hero romance and gives it the name Leander Tower. This tale tells that a castle was built on the present site by a Byzantine Emperor for his daughter Hero. When the Emperor learnt that his daughter had a love affair with a commoner named Leander, he imprisoned Hero in the castle. This could not dispirit Leander who, being of athletic-make, would cross Hellespont to see Hero. One stormy night he had no light to guide him and drowned. Hero, hearing of the mishap, flung herself into the sea.

[attachment=514]

History of Maiden's Tower

The history of this grand structure dates back to antiquity. Built around 419 B.C. as per instructions of the Greek Commander Alcibiades, the initial structure was a watchtower. With a near-complete view of the Black Sea, sentinels stationed at the tower would keep a watch on trespassers and enemy fleets.

In the 12th century, the Byzantine Emperor Komnenos converted this tower into a fortress and practically blocked the entryway through the strait of Bosphorus. The legends apart, there seems ample evidence of the fact that during the Byzantine rule the tower was used as a prison. Used as a station to collect customs duties from the ships anchoring in and entering the land, the Tower was transformed to a lighthouse in this period.

By the time the Turks arrived and finally captured Istanbul, the Tower was a dilapidated structure. They undertook the heavy task of restoration and erected a fully renovated wooden tower. The wooden tower caught fire while on duty lighting the way for passing-by ships was gutted. The present stone tower was built during the reign of Ahmet III in 1719.

Thus, sharing its history with the very history of Istanbul, the Maiden`s Tower has stood witness to many events and has very much been a part of every time frame.

[attachment=515]

[attachment=516]

Maiden's Tower Today

After remaining a private property as part of different empires - Greek, Byzantine and Ottoman - Kiz Kulesi first opened its gates for the commoners about 2500 years after it was built. The present day tower has been restored by the Denizcilik Bank (Turkish Marinary Bank) and even today it continues to render its services to the nation as a lighthouse, a semaphore station, a customs control area and other significant jobs.

Befitting the times, Leander`s Tower now houses a restaurant, a cafeteria and a gift center and has become a popular tourist destination. Both the cafeteria and the restaurant remain open from 12.00 hrs - 19.00 hrs, six days a week (excluding Mondays) the year-round. The restaurant satisfies the gourmet within you with its selective list of Turkish delicacies. Side by side, it also pampers the music-lover, connoisseur in you by dishing out quality music. While `Group Leandros` formed on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings present music of the bygone eras, Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday evenings are meant for some revitalizing, contemporary fun songs.

The other see-you-must at the Maiden`s Tower is the small Bosphorus Museum. The observation tower atop the tower giving you a 360° view of Istanbul will make your visit to the Tower one of the most memorable experiences of your life.

[attachment=517]

Location of Maiden's Tower

The Maiden`s Tower stands on a small islet in the Bosphorus in Istanbul, between the two continents of Asia and Europe. The islet`s near location to the Uskudar district of Istanbul city (the Asian part of the city) makes it easily accessible.

Maiden`s Tower is a short walk from the Uskudar port. For those of you who avoid walking, frequent ferry-services are available from Eminonu or the Karakoy ports.

[attachment=518]

[attachment=519]]]>
Kiz Kulesi (or Maiden`s Tower or Leander`s Tower), the age-old symbol of love and romance, happens to be the landmark of Turkey. The Maiden`s Tower features in just about every work of art on Turkey. Framed in pictures and paintings, it has many compositions dedicated to its glory. Its appearance as the secret hideout of the villainous Elektra in the James Bond movie `The World Is Not Enough`, gives a clue to the immense charm it holds for millions across the globe.

[attachment=513]

Legend of Maiden's Tower

The stone structure appearing in each and every pictorial treatise of Istanbul (rather Turkey), has two very captivating tales associated with it. The name `Maiden`s Tower` has its roots in the more popular story relating a maiden`s misfortune. According to this tale, a beautiful Byzantine princess was once quartered in this tower. It is said that soothsayers had predicted her early death by snakebite. Her father, Emperor Constantine who loved her dearly, built an extended castle (near the spot where the present tower exists) and placed her there to avert the fatal end. Eventually the girl died of snakebite, which entered the castle in a grape basket.

The other story doing the rounds links it to the Leander-Hero romance and gives it the name Leander Tower. This tale tells that a castle was built on the present site by a Byzantine Emperor for his daughter Hero. When the Emperor learnt that his daughter had a love affair with a commoner named Leander, he imprisoned Hero in the castle. This could not dispirit Leander who, being of athletic-make, would cross Hellespont to see Hero. One stormy night he had no light to guide him and drowned. Hero, hearing of the mishap, flung herself into the sea.

[attachment=514]

History of Maiden's Tower

The history of this grand structure dates back to antiquity. Built around 419 B.C. as per instructions of the Greek Commander Alcibiades, the initial structure was a watchtower. With a near-complete view of the Black Sea, sentinels stationed at the tower would keep a watch on trespassers and enemy fleets.

In the 12th century, the Byzantine Emperor Komnenos converted this tower into a fortress and practically blocked the entryway through the strait of Bosphorus. The legends apart, there seems ample evidence of the fact that during the Byzantine rule the tower was used as a prison. Used as a station to collect customs duties from the ships anchoring in and entering the land, the Tower was transformed to a lighthouse in this period.

By the time the Turks arrived and finally captured Istanbul, the Tower was a dilapidated structure. They undertook the heavy task of restoration and erected a fully renovated wooden tower. The wooden tower caught fire while on duty lighting the way for passing-by ships was gutted. The present stone tower was built during the reign of Ahmet III in 1719.

Thus, sharing its history with the very history of Istanbul, the Maiden`s Tower has stood witness to many events and has very much been a part of every time frame.

[attachment=515]

[attachment=516]

Maiden's Tower Today

After remaining a private property as part of different empires - Greek, Byzantine and Ottoman - Kiz Kulesi first opened its gates for the commoners about 2500 years after it was built. The present day tower has been restored by the Denizcilik Bank (Turkish Marinary Bank) and even today it continues to render its services to the nation as a lighthouse, a semaphore station, a customs control area and other significant jobs.

Befitting the times, Leander`s Tower now houses a restaurant, a cafeteria and a gift center and has become a popular tourist destination. Both the cafeteria and the restaurant remain open from 12.00 hrs - 19.00 hrs, six days a week (excluding Mondays) the year-round. The restaurant satisfies the gourmet within you with its selective list of Turkish delicacies. Side by side, it also pampers the music-lover, connoisseur in you by dishing out quality music. While `Group Leandros` formed on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings present music of the bygone eras, Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday evenings are meant for some revitalizing, contemporary fun songs.

The other see-you-must at the Maiden`s Tower is the small Bosphorus Museum. The observation tower atop the tower giving you a 360° view of Istanbul will make your visit to the Tower one of the most memorable experiences of your life.

[attachment=517]

Location of Maiden's Tower

The Maiden`s Tower stands on a small islet in the Bosphorus in Istanbul, between the two continents of Asia and Europe. The islet`s near location to the Uskudar district of Istanbul city (the Asian part of the city) makes it easily accessible.

Maiden`s Tower is a short walk from the Uskudar port. For those of you who avoid walking, frequent ferry-services are available from Eminonu or the Karakoy ports.

[attachment=518]

[attachment=519]]]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3199 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 19:52:08 +0300 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=3199
Visitors to Istanbul cannot miss the Galata Tower. A huge cone-capped landmark on the European side of the Golden Horn, it dominates the skyline of Galata and is the first sight to hit you in the city.

History of Galata Tower

Galata is located in Istanbul, where the Golden Horn meets the Bosphorus. The Galata bridges spanned the two shores of the Golden Horn. The name Galata comes from `gala`, which in Greek means milk. It is presumed that the many dairies in the district lent the place this name, although there is no historical evidence of the fact. It could also have come from the Italian word `calata` or `the road leading down to the sea`, possibly because of the slight slope of the section between Tunel to the shores of Halic.

The region of Galata was famous for its several Latin Catholic churches. Most of these however were destroyed by fires so you may not really see any. Galata also has an abandoned synagogue built by a Jewish banker and many mosques that were built during the Ottoman era. Galata has always been famous for its confluence of many cultures - a place where people from many religions and races got shelter. The warm, tolerant and democratic environment of Galata has been symbolized in the structure of its most famous landmark - the Galata Tower.

[attachment=435]

Galata Tower - Overview

Located in the north of the Golden Horn, the Galata Tower was originally constructed by Emperor Justinian in 528 AD. It was destroyed during the Fourth Crusade, but when the Geonese conquered the place in the medieval period, the tower was again built as part of their fortification of the region. They wanted to build a wall to fortify the area and the tower was built in the center as a watchtower as it was a vantage point to look out to old Istanbul on the opposite side. At that time, the Galata tower was known as `Jesus Tower,` with a spire and a cross on top.

Istanbul was later conquered by the Turkish ruler Sultan Mehmet. He caused no harm to any of the religious buildings in Istanbul or to the Galata Tower. In fact, it was rebuilt time and again by the Ottomans after damages caused to it by fires and earthquakes. During the course of reconstruction, the Ottomans incorporated their own architectural design into it. The Galata Tower is therefore a true reflection of symbiosis of cultures so typical of Galata.

The huge cone-capped cylindrical tower is magnificent in its dimensions. It measures 8.95 meters in diameter and stands 140 meters above sea-level. From ground level, it is 61 meters. This altitude makes it a good vantage point to see the whole of Istanbul. The walls are 3.75 meters thick. Not much remains of the original appearance though, due to destruction by fire and earthquakes. However, an interesting feature you will observe is that the first three floors have a Genoese style of construction while the upper floors have Turkish architecture. Around the topmost row of windows is a narrow panorama balcony. Although open to weather, it offers a spectacular view of the city of Istanbul.

[attachment=436]

Interesting Facts about Galata Tower

Before you visit the tower, it will be interesting for you to know a few of the stories associated with the Galata Tower and the variety of uses it has been put to. This adds more significance to the visit. The Geonese first used the tower for defense purposes. It was also a part of the communication system at that time - a method inherited from the Romans. Fires were lit on top of the tower to send messages at great distances.

When the Ottomans captured Istanbul, they converted it into a prison and later used it as a dormitory for the military band.

However, the most well known story is that of Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi. The Galata Tower really became famous in Turkey and a part of Ottoman history when in the 17th century; Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi attempted to fly from the GalataTower to Uskudar on the Asian shore with wings attached to his arms. After working on this project for many years, he succeeded one fine day, when the winds carried him all the way over the Bosphorous to Uskudar. After this spectacular event, the locals referred to the tower as the Hezarfen Tower for quite some time.

It is also during this period that people used the tower for a strange sport. They tied ropes to the supports on top of the tower and slid down the rope. Later they climbed up the rope back to the top of the tower. Regular competitions were held in this sport of rope climbing.

At times, the tower was also used by the Mevlevi Order of the dervishes for their sema ceremonies.

The Galata Tower underwent its last restoration in 1990 and was made open to the public as a tourist attraction soon after.

[attachment=437]

Visiting Galata Tower

On your visit to Istanbul, you will at once be struck by the sight of this enormous construction that dominates the skyline. The tower is open to visitors from 9a.m to 8p.m daily. The balcony remains open till 5p.m and till 7 p.m. in summer. You have to pay a small fee to enter the Galata Tower. There is an elevator to the tower, but you have to walk up the last two floors to the observation desk.

The climb will be worthwhile as the sight from the observation desk is most spectacular. It will give you a 360-degree panoramic view of Istanbul. You can see the Asian side, the highest point of Istanbul, the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, the Suleiman`s Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Spice Market, the New Mosque and all other important destinations of Istanbul. From the Galata Tower, you can see the four different sides of Istanbul.

If the visit makes you hungry, there is a restaurant on top of the tower where you can taste some fine Turkish cuisine. If you visit the tower in the evening, you can get a taste of the Turkish nightlife at the nightclub. Turkish folk dance troupes and belly dancers perform regularly there to entertain the guests.

So if you wish to get a true insight to Istanbul, feel its history, and enjoy a magnificent view of the sea and The Golden Horn, you must visit the Galata Tower - the oldest and most beautiful tower of Istanbul.]]>
Visitors to Istanbul cannot miss the Galata Tower. A huge cone-capped landmark on the European side of the Golden Horn, it dominates the skyline of Galata and is the first sight to hit you in the city.

History of Galata Tower

Galata is located in Istanbul, where the Golden Horn meets the Bosphorus. The Galata bridges spanned the two shores of the Golden Horn. The name Galata comes from `gala`, which in Greek means milk. It is presumed that the many dairies in the district lent the place this name, although there is no historical evidence of the fact. It could also have come from the Italian word `calata` or `the road leading down to the sea`, possibly because of the slight slope of the section between Tunel to the shores of Halic.

The region of Galata was famous for its several Latin Catholic churches. Most of these however were destroyed by fires so you may not really see any. Galata also has an abandoned synagogue built by a Jewish banker and many mosques that were built during the Ottoman era. Galata has always been famous for its confluence of many cultures - a place where people from many religions and races got shelter. The warm, tolerant and democratic environment of Galata has been symbolized in the structure of its most famous landmark - the Galata Tower.

[attachment=435]

Galata Tower - Overview

Located in the north of the Golden Horn, the Galata Tower was originally constructed by Emperor Justinian in 528 AD. It was destroyed during the Fourth Crusade, but when the Geonese conquered the place in the medieval period, the tower was again built as part of their fortification of the region. They wanted to build a wall to fortify the area and the tower was built in the center as a watchtower as it was a vantage point to look out to old Istanbul on the opposite side. At that time, the Galata tower was known as `Jesus Tower,` with a spire and a cross on top.

Istanbul was later conquered by the Turkish ruler Sultan Mehmet. He caused no harm to any of the religious buildings in Istanbul or to the Galata Tower. In fact, it was rebuilt time and again by the Ottomans after damages caused to it by fires and earthquakes. During the course of reconstruction, the Ottomans incorporated their own architectural design into it. The Galata Tower is therefore a true reflection of symbiosis of cultures so typical of Galata.

The huge cone-capped cylindrical tower is magnificent in its dimensions. It measures 8.95 meters in diameter and stands 140 meters above sea-level. From ground level, it is 61 meters. This altitude makes it a good vantage point to see the whole of Istanbul. The walls are 3.75 meters thick. Not much remains of the original appearance though, due to destruction by fire and earthquakes. However, an interesting feature you will observe is that the first three floors have a Genoese style of construction while the upper floors have Turkish architecture. Around the topmost row of windows is a narrow panorama balcony. Although open to weather, it offers a spectacular view of the city of Istanbul.

[attachment=436]

Interesting Facts about Galata Tower

Before you visit the tower, it will be interesting for you to know a few of the stories associated with the Galata Tower and the variety of uses it has been put to. This adds more significance to the visit. The Geonese first used the tower for defense purposes. It was also a part of the communication system at that time - a method inherited from the Romans. Fires were lit on top of the tower to send messages at great distances.

When the Ottomans captured Istanbul, they converted it into a prison and later used it as a dormitory for the military band.

However, the most well known story is that of Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi. The Galata Tower really became famous in Turkey and a part of Ottoman history when in the 17th century; Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi attempted to fly from the GalataTower to Uskudar on the Asian shore with wings attached to his arms. After working on this project for many years, he succeeded one fine day, when the winds carried him all the way over the Bosphorous to Uskudar. After this spectacular event, the locals referred to the tower as the Hezarfen Tower for quite some time.

It is also during this period that people used the tower for a strange sport. They tied ropes to the supports on top of the tower and slid down the rope. Later they climbed up the rope back to the top of the tower. Regular competitions were held in this sport of rope climbing.

At times, the tower was also used by the Mevlevi Order of the dervishes for their sema ceremonies.

The Galata Tower underwent its last restoration in 1990 and was made open to the public as a tourist attraction soon after.

[attachment=437]

Visiting Galata Tower

On your visit to Istanbul, you will at once be struck by the sight of this enormous construction that dominates the skyline. The tower is open to visitors from 9a.m to 8p.m daily. The balcony remains open till 5p.m and till 7 p.m. in summer. You have to pay a small fee to enter the Galata Tower. There is an elevator to the tower, but you have to walk up the last two floors to the observation desk.

The climb will be worthwhile as the sight from the observation desk is most spectacular. It will give you a 360-degree panoramic view of Istanbul. You can see the Asian side, the highest point of Istanbul, the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, the Suleiman`s Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Spice Market, the New Mosque and all other important destinations of Istanbul. From the Galata Tower, you can see the four different sides of Istanbul.

If the visit makes you hungry, there is a restaurant on top of the tower where you can taste some fine Turkish cuisine. If you visit the tower in the evening, you can get a taste of the Turkish nightlife at the nightclub. Turkish folk dance troupes and belly dancers perform regularly there to entertain the guests.

So if you wish to get a true insight to Istanbul, feel its history, and enjoy a magnificent view of the sea and The Golden Horn, you must visit the Galata Tower - the oldest and most beautiful tower of Istanbul.]]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=2950 Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:49:46 +0300 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=2950
Of the many Travel destinations in Turkey, Safranbolu stands apart as unique. Safranbolu`s long history and cultural heritage has lent an irresistible charm for the tourists. Safranbolu is famous for saffron; in fact, it received its name from it.

Safranbolu is a place that will surely remain etched in your memory, beckoning you to go there over and over again.

[attachment=395]

History of Safranbolu

Following the split of Roman Empire in 395 A.D., Safranbolu was annexed with the East Roman Empire (Byzantium). Turks appeared before the 10th century and settled there. Recently retrieved documents amply prove that Turks took reins of governance in 1196. However, power changed hands between Turks and Byzantines and often between Ottomans and small Turkish states. Finally, Candaroglu Süleyman Pasa seized the power in 1326.

[attachment=394]

Main Attractions in Safranbolu

Safranbolu is nestled in hills and mountains, the lowest and highest points being 300 meters and 1750 meters. Of the town area 1013 sq. kms., a big part is devoured by forests. The city abounds with numerous creeks that produce great canyons but do not hold much water.

Nature has lavished all its bounties of forests, pasturages, canyons, cavers and special products of the area in Safranbolu. Forests as canopies over the land are a real treat for the eyes of tourists. Interestingly, its beauty changes in different seasons with wide variety of trees. You will find all shades of yellow, red and green in the forests.

Peculiarity of geological formation in the region ended up in deep gorge canyons and log caverns and heightens the beauty of the area. Incekaya, Tokatli, Düzce (Kiore) and Sakaralan (Tekekurum) canyons are the few main canyons.

[attachment=396]
[attachment=397]

Safranbolu Houses

The special attraction in Safranbolu is its houses. In fact, it has been listed in the World Heritage sites of UNESCO because of these specialty houses. These structures represent old civilian architecture that was prevalent during the 18th and 19th century of the Turkish society. For example, the sizes of the houses depict the Turkish preference of joint families. It is also called the "House of five facades" because of the magnificent roof structures.

The rooms are large, spacious with lots of natural light and each two/three-storied building has 6 to 9 rooms. The Turkish art is expressed in its fragile woodwork, indoor knobs, banisters and carved wall and ceiling decorations. The ornamental styles and elaborate carvings depart an elegant touch to these beautiful houses. It is a "must see" if you ever visit Safranbolu.

[attachment=398]

Transportation to and around Safranbolu

Safranbolu is six hours away from Istanbul if you travel by bus. Metro offers a direct bus route from Istanbul. The bus will leave you at Karabuk, which is a modern town on the hillside above Safranbolu and you could walk down 2 kms. to Safranbolu. Alternatively, you could opt for a Dolmus that operates between Karabuk bus station and the Safranbolu main square.

You could also travel from Amasra to Bartin by a minibus and then take a bus that will take you to Safranbolu.]]>
Of the many Travel destinations in Turkey, Safranbolu stands apart as unique. Safranbolu`s long history and cultural heritage has lent an irresistible charm for the tourists. Safranbolu is famous for saffron; in fact, it received its name from it.

Safranbolu is a place that will surely remain etched in your memory, beckoning you to go there over and over again.

[attachment=395]

History of Safranbolu

Following the split of Roman Empire in 395 A.D., Safranbolu was annexed with the East Roman Empire (Byzantium). Turks appeared before the 10th century and settled there. Recently retrieved documents amply prove that Turks took reins of governance in 1196. However, power changed hands between Turks and Byzantines and often between Ottomans and small Turkish states. Finally, Candaroglu Süleyman Pasa seized the power in 1326.

[attachment=394]

Main Attractions in Safranbolu

Safranbolu is nestled in hills and mountains, the lowest and highest points being 300 meters and 1750 meters. Of the town area 1013 sq. kms., a big part is devoured by forests. The city abounds with numerous creeks that produce great canyons but do not hold much water.

Nature has lavished all its bounties of forests, pasturages, canyons, cavers and special products of the area in Safranbolu. Forests as canopies over the land are a real treat for the eyes of tourists. Interestingly, its beauty changes in different seasons with wide variety of trees. You will find all shades of yellow, red and green in the forests.

Peculiarity of geological formation in the region ended up in deep gorge canyons and log caverns and heightens the beauty of the area. Incekaya, Tokatli, Düzce (Kiore) and Sakaralan (Tekekurum) canyons are the few main canyons.

[attachment=396]
[attachment=397]

Safranbolu Houses

The special attraction in Safranbolu is its houses. In fact, it has been listed in the World Heritage sites of UNESCO because of these specialty houses. These structures represent old civilian architecture that was prevalent during the 18th and 19th century of the Turkish society. For example, the sizes of the houses depict the Turkish preference of joint families. It is also called the "House of five facades" because of the magnificent roof structures.

The rooms are large, spacious with lots of natural light and each two/three-storied building has 6 to 9 rooms. The Turkish art is expressed in its fragile woodwork, indoor knobs, banisters and carved wall and ceiling decorations. The ornamental styles and elaborate carvings depart an elegant touch to these beautiful houses. It is a "must see" if you ever visit Safranbolu.

[attachment=398]

Transportation to and around Safranbolu

Safranbolu is six hours away from Istanbul if you travel by bus. Metro offers a direct bus route from Istanbul. The bus will leave you at Karabuk, which is a modern town on the hillside above Safranbolu and you could walk down 2 kms. to Safranbolu. Alternatively, you could opt for a Dolmus that operates between Karabuk bus station and the Safranbolu main square.

You could also travel from Amasra to Bartin by a minibus and then take a bus that will take you to Safranbolu.]]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=2406 Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:29:28 +0300 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=2406
Located in the Mediterranean, it is 97 kilometers south of Sicily and 257 kilometers north of Libya. It has great geopolitical importance. It has served as a strategic base in the Mediterranean Sea and as a land in which different countries have displayed their strength. Arabs, Sicilians, Normans, the Knights of Malta, the French and the British have controlled the island.

As in England and countries that were occupied by British forces, cars drive on the left-hand side in Malta. It gained its independence from Britain in 1964, but the last British forced departed in 1979. Along with English, the official language is Maltese.

Malta is an archipelago that consists of three large islands -- Malta, Comino and Gozo. There are other islands, but they are extremely small and uninhabited. Regular daily ferries travel between the islands, the most densely populated of which is Malta. Gozo has the second highest population after Malta, but Comino is very sparsely populated. The population density is 1,282 per square kilometer and the gross domestic product per capita is around $12,000.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Malta joined the European Union in 2004 and adopted the euro as the country's currency in 2008. Turkish citizens were not required to have a visa to enter Malta until 2007, when Malta implemented the Schengen agreement. Its economy depends on foreign trade. Cars, electronic products, water and electricity are expensive. With no permanent rivers or lakes, Malta has limited freshwater resources and is required to resort to the costly process of purifying sea water as a source of drinking water.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Malta is a perfect country for tourism with its hot, dry summers and mild winters. With almost no greenery and no mountains, the country attracts tourists with its beautiful sparkling sea. The number of tourists that visit the country each year is three times that of the population, which is why many large hotels line the country's coastline.

Maltese people are proud of their Catholic heritage -- an important part of the culture. There are churches around every corner in Malta, where 98 percent of the population is Roman Catholic. Churches and chapels are one of the most attractive features for tourists. There are 365 churches, one for every day. The divorce rate in Malta is zero because according to the Church, couples cannot officially divorce or separate. Abortion is also illegal in Malta.

Valletta, Malta's capital has a population of 92,000. In terms of total area, it could be the smallest capital in the world. Upper Barrakka Gardens in the capital offer a magnificent view of the Grand Harbor and the sea. A popular tourist attraction is the firing of the noon-day gun. The castle that was formerly home to the leader of the Knights of St. John is now used as the president's official office and parliamentary building. The Cathedral of St. John is also a popular tourist attraction.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Valletta, Malta's capital has a population of 92,000. In terms of total area, it could be the smallest capital in the world. Upper Barrakka Gardens in the capital offer a magnificent view of the Grand Harbor and the sea. A popular tourist attraction is the firing of the noon-day gun. The castle that was formerly home to the leader of the Knights of St. John is now used as the president's official office and parliamentary building. The Cathedral of St. John is also a popular tourist attraction.

The world's largest gun at the time of British rule, weighing 100 tons, is located in Fort Rinella. The British-built Armstrong cannon was capable of throwing a one-ton projectile 13 miles. It is surprising to still see the British flag waving in the fort that was once occupied by British forces.

Muslim Arabs from North Africa arrived in 870 and inhabited the island for two centuries. Maltese people prospered under Arab control, which introduced new architecture, water irrigation and brought trade in cotton and fruit. Having control over the islands for a long time, Arabs made a lasting impression on Maltese language and culture. In the ancient capital of Mdina, a quiet, historically rich town, there are still street signs containing Arabic words. Maltese bears a similarity to Arabic and contains many Arabic words; many linguists trace the origin of Maltese to Phoenician. While touring the city, you may come across signs saying "masjid." These signs will take you to a square that used to be an area for prayer, no longer used for that purpose today. A cistern located in the center was used for cleansing. However, mosques and prayers areas that were built during Arab rule have been demolished.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Malta has varied attractions for visitors: Glasswork is popular, and there are many workshops where thousands of unique, mesmerizing glass articles are displayed for sale. The Popeye village was built as a film set for the production of the film "Popeye" starring Robin Williams. Located in a small, beautiful bay, the village consists of colorful wooden homes and is open to the public as an open-air museum.

Many diving courses are offered in Malta, where the coastline is indented with natural deep bays, making it a perfect place for diving. Most beaches are not sandy but rather are dominated by cliffs and rocks, although Golden Bay is one of Malta's rare sandy beaches, being extremely popular with tourists.

As well as being a tourist island, Malta also has an interesting history. In the 15th century, the unfortunate Prince Jem Sultan, the younger son of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, took refuge with the Knights of St. John but was later sent to the pope who ordered him to be poisoned.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
In 1565, Ottoman forces besieged Malta but following a series of problems, their reign did not last long. The Ottomans, who took control of Cyprus, Rhodes and Crete, failed to hold on to Malta. It was during this time that Turgut Reis, an Ottoman admiral, was killed. During the siege, the Ottomans not only fought the Knights of Malta, they also fought a 10,000-man army of Sicilian, Spanish and French soldiers supported by the pope that rushed to aid the knights. Along with Turgut Reis, 20,000 Ottoman soldiers died in the clash. In 1874, Ottoman Sultan Abdülaziz financed a martyrs' cemetery designed by architect Emmanuel Luigi Galizia (1830-1906) in honor of the 20,000 soldiers who were killed during the siege. Eşref Bey, who was the commander of the Muslim forces on the island during World War I repaired the cemetery between 1919 and 1920 and built a martyrs' memorial for soldiers who died while captured in Malta during World War I.

Very few of the martyrs' gravestones in the cemetery are decipherable. The gravestones of police officer Hayri from İstanbul, soldier Abdullah son of Aziz, and officer candidate Şan Ali Mehmet Nasir are among those that can be read. Soldiers killed during the siege of Malta and those who died during World War I are buried in this cemetery. These graves are the strongest evidence of Ottoman existence in Malta. Not all the graves in the cemetery are of Ottoman soldiers. Following World War I, Muslims from other nationalities were also buried here; Egyptian, Burmese and Ugandan Muslims were buried in this cemetery in the late '80s and early '90s.

The Ottoman siege has not been forgotten by the Maltese people. Until recently, mothers used to discipline their naughty sons by saying, "Behave or else I will give you to the Turks."
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Malta is also known as a prison base. During World War I, the British forces that invaded İstanbul exiled 145 Turks to the island. Süleyman Nazif, Ziya Gökalp, Hüseyin Cahit (Yalçın), Ebüzziyazade Velit, Ahmet Emin (Yalman) Fethi (Okyar), Lt. Col. Ali (Çetinkaya), Abdülhalik (Renda) and Ali İhsan Paşa (Sabis) were among those who were exiled. In 1921, 16 people including Ali İhsan Paşa managed to escape, some of them joining the Milli Mucadale, the political and military resistance developed by Turkish revolutionaries after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...


A Tour Around The World Saim Orhan..]]>
Located in the Mediterranean, it is 97 kilometers south of Sicily and 257 kilometers north of Libya. It has great geopolitical importance. It has served as a strategic base in the Mediterranean Sea and as a land in which different countries have displayed their strength. Arabs, Sicilians, Normans, the Knights of Malta, the French and the British have controlled the island.

As in England and countries that were occupied by British forces, cars drive on the left-hand side in Malta. It gained its independence from Britain in 1964, but the last British forced departed in 1979. Along with English, the official language is Maltese.

Malta is an archipelago that consists of three large islands -- Malta, Comino and Gozo. There are other islands, but they are extremely small and uninhabited. Regular daily ferries travel between the islands, the most densely populated of which is Malta. Gozo has the second highest population after Malta, but Comino is very sparsely populated. The population density is 1,282 per square kilometer and the gross domestic product per capita is around $12,000.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Malta joined the European Union in 2004 and adopted the euro as the country's currency in 2008. Turkish citizens were not required to have a visa to enter Malta until 2007, when Malta implemented the Schengen agreement. Its economy depends on foreign trade. Cars, electronic products, water and electricity are expensive. With no permanent rivers or lakes, Malta has limited freshwater resources and is required to resort to the costly process of purifying sea water as a source of drinking water.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Malta is a perfect country for tourism with its hot, dry summers and mild winters. With almost no greenery and no mountains, the country attracts tourists with its beautiful sparkling sea. The number of tourists that visit the country each year is three times that of the population, which is why many large hotels line the country's coastline.

Maltese people are proud of their Catholic heritage -- an important part of the culture. There are churches around every corner in Malta, where 98 percent of the population is Roman Catholic. Churches and chapels are one of the most attractive features for tourists. There are 365 churches, one for every day. The divorce rate in Malta is zero because according to the Church, couples cannot officially divorce or separate. Abortion is also illegal in Malta.

Valletta, Malta's capital has a population of 92,000. In terms of total area, it could be the smallest capital in the world. Upper Barrakka Gardens in the capital offer a magnificent view of the Grand Harbor and the sea. A popular tourist attraction is the firing of the noon-day gun. The castle that was formerly home to the leader of the Knights of St. John is now used as the president's official office and parliamentary building. The Cathedral of St. John is also a popular tourist attraction.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Valletta, Malta's capital has a population of 92,000. In terms of total area, it could be the smallest capital in the world. Upper Barrakka Gardens in the capital offer a magnificent view of the Grand Harbor and the sea. A popular tourist attraction is the firing of the noon-day gun. The castle that was formerly home to the leader of the Knights of St. John is now used as the president's official office and parliamentary building. The Cathedral of St. John is also a popular tourist attraction.

The world's largest gun at the time of British rule, weighing 100 tons, is located in Fort Rinella. The British-built Armstrong cannon was capable of throwing a one-ton projectile 13 miles. It is surprising to still see the British flag waving in the fort that was once occupied by British forces.

Muslim Arabs from North Africa arrived in 870 and inhabited the island for two centuries. Maltese people prospered under Arab control, which introduced new architecture, water irrigation and brought trade in cotton and fruit. Having control over the islands for a long time, Arabs made a lasting impression on Maltese language and culture. In the ancient capital of Mdina, a quiet, historically rich town, there are still street signs containing Arabic words. Maltese bears a similarity to Arabic and contains many Arabic words; many linguists trace the origin of Maltese to Phoenician. While touring the city, you may come across signs saying "masjid." These signs will take you to a square that used to be an area for prayer, no longer used for that purpose today. A cistern located in the center was used for cleansing. However, mosques and prayers areas that were built during Arab rule have been demolished.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Malta has varied attractions for visitors: Glasswork is popular, and there are many workshops where thousands of unique, mesmerizing glass articles are displayed for sale. The Popeye village was built as a film set for the production of the film "Popeye" starring Robin Williams. Located in a small, beautiful bay, the village consists of colorful wooden homes and is open to the public as an open-air museum.

Many diving courses are offered in Malta, where the coastline is indented with natural deep bays, making it a perfect place for diving. Most beaches are not sandy but rather are dominated by cliffs and rocks, although Golden Bay is one of Malta's rare sandy beaches, being extremely popular with tourists.

As well as being a tourist island, Malta also has an interesting history. In the 15th century, the unfortunate Prince Jem Sultan, the younger son of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, took refuge with the Knights of St. John but was later sent to the pope who ordered him to be poisoned.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
In 1565, Ottoman forces besieged Malta but following a series of problems, their reign did not last long. The Ottomans, who took control of Cyprus, Rhodes and Crete, failed to hold on to Malta. It was during this time that Turgut Reis, an Ottoman admiral, was killed. During the siege, the Ottomans not only fought the Knights of Malta, they also fought a 10,000-man army of Sicilian, Spanish and French soldiers supported by the pope that rushed to aid the knights. Along with Turgut Reis, 20,000 Ottoman soldiers died in the clash. In 1874, Ottoman Sultan Abdülaziz financed a martyrs' cemetery designed by architect Emmanuel Luigi Galizia (1830-1906) in honor of the 20,000 soldiers who were killed during the siege. Eşref Bey, who was the commander of the Muslim forces on the island during World War I repaired the cemetery between 1919 and 1920 and built a martyrs' memorial for soldiers who died while captured in Malta during World War I.

Very few of the martyrs' gravestones in the cemetery are decipherable. The gravestones of police officer Hayri from İstanbul, soldier Abdullah son of Aziz, and officer candidate Şan Ali Mehmet Nasir are among those that can be read. Soldiers killed during the siege of Malta and those who died during World War I are buried in this cemetery. These graves are the strongest evidence of Ottoman existence in Malta. Not all the graves in the cemetery are of Ottoman soldiers. Following World War I, Muslims from other nationalities were also buried here; Egyptian, Burmese and Ugandan Muslims were buried in this cemetery in the late '80s and early '90s.

The Ottoman siege has not been forgotten by the Maltese people. Until recently, mothers used to discipline their naughty sons by saying, "Behave or else I will give you to the Turks."
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Malta is also known as a prison base. During World War I, the British forces that invaded İstanbul exiled 145 Turks to the island. Süleyman Nazif, Ziya Gökalp, Hüseyin Cahit (Yalçın), Ebüzziyazade Velit, Ahmet Emin (Yalman) Fethi (Okyar), Lt. Col. Ali (Çetinkaya), Abdülhalik (Renda) and Ali İhsan Paşa (Sabis) were among those who were exiled. In 1921, 16 people including Ali İhsan Paşa managed to escape, some of them joining the Milli Mucadale, the political and military resistance developed by Turkish revolutionaries after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire.
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...
Sitemize üye olmadan linkleri göremezsiniz. Kayıt olmak sadece 30 saniyenizi alacak...
Kayıt Ol! -
Giriş Yap...


A Tour Around The World Saim Orhan..]]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=1707 Mon, 23 Mar 2009 14:45:39 +0200 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=1707
Pamukkale is the main attraction of the Aegean region of Turkey. The city is blessed with breath taking beauty formed of curious calcium deposits. Tourists from around the globe throng to Pamukkale to witness the natural marvel that is unique to the city. The present name of the city literally means "cotton castle" and is justly named after its exquisite limestone landscapes.

Pamukkale also has a spell binding historical past. The erstwhile name of the city is Hierapolis and remnants of the past make it a treasure trove of archeological wealth. Today, Pamukkale is a coveted site for all vacationers and is strewn with luxury hotels and resorts. Going around the city is very convenient with privately hired taxis or the collective taxis called Dolmus.

Pamukkale has a unique experience to offer. It is a must see for every tourist from around the globe.

Main Attractions in Pamukkale

The greatest attraction of Pamukkale is its intricate limestone structures. Waters rich in calcium salts run across the slopes leaving behind curious art forms by nature`s hand. The warm, calcareous waters collect in the Sacred Pool and are known to have healing powers.

The ancient town is also blessed by a versatile history. A long colonnaded street called Plateia formed the main part of ancient Hierapolis. It traversed from the southern most gateway up to the renowned Arch of Domitian in the north. Roman baths; ancient gymnasiums, a palaestra and a museum flank the wide road. The museum exhibits sculptures and finds from the bygone eras.

Pamukkale also possesses the great theatre of Hierapolis famed for its exquisite carvings and relief work. Near the great city walls is the Martyrion of St. Phillip, an impressive octagonal structure. Further down, is the temple of the mythical God Apollo dating back to the Hellenistic period. Nearby is a cave known for emanating poisonous gases.

You can also find a Christian basilica with beautiful carvings in Pamukkale. The necropolis of Hierapolis is the biggest graveyard of the erstwhile Anatolia.

Shopping in Pamukkale

Pamukkale is just the place to pick up typically Turkish souvenirs as memories of your travel. The items to look out for are carpets, gold, leather and ceramic goods. The shops are open for long hours daily and sell quality items at reasonable prices.]]>
Pamukkale is the main attraction of the Aegean region of Turkey. The city is blessed with breath taking beauty formed of curious calcium deposits. Tourists from around the globe throng to Pamukkale to witness the natural marvel that is unique to the city. The present name of the city literally means "cotton castle" and is justly named after its exquisite limestone landscapes.

Pamukkale also has a spell binding historical past. The erstwhile name of the city is Hierapolis and remnants of the past make it a treasure trove of archeological wealth. Today, Pamukkale is a coveted site for all vacationers and is strewn with luxury hotels and resorts. Going around the city is very convenient with privately hired taxis or the collective taxis called Dolmus.

Pamukkale has a unique experience to offer. It is a must see for every tourist from around the globe.

Main Attractions in Pamukkale

The greatest attraction of Pamukkale is its intricate limestone structures. Waters rich in calcium salts run across the slopes leaving behind curious art forms by nature`s hand. The warm, calcareous waters collect in the Sacred Pool and are known to have healing powers.

The ancient town is also blessed by a versatile history. A long colonnaded street called Plateia formed the main part of ancient Hierapolis. It traversed from the southern most gateway up to the renowned Arch of Domitian in the north. Roman baths; ancient gymnasiums, a palaestra and a museum flank the wide road. The museum exhibits sculptures and finds from the bygone eras.

Pamukkale also possesses the great theatre of Hierapolis famed for its exquisite carvings and relief work. Near the great city walls is the Martyrion of St. Phillip, an impressive octagonal structure. Further down, is the temple of the mythical God Apollo dating back to the Hellenistic period. Nearby is a cave known for emanating poisonous gases.

You can also find a Christian basilica with beautiful carvings in Pamukkale. The necropolis of Hierapolis is the biggest graveyard of the erstwhile Anatolia.

Shopping in Pamukkale

Pamukkale is just the place to pick up typically Turkish souvenirs as memories of your travel. The items to look out for are carpets, gold, leather and ceramic goods. The shops are open for long hours daily and sell quality items at reasonable prices.]]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=1649 Sun, 22 Mar 2009 20:31:31 +0200 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=1649
A fertile region between the two volcanoes - Hasan Dagi and Erciyes Dagi, lies the region of Cappadocia. Known as Cappadocia in the ancient times, at present it is informally called the Kapadokya. The town lies to the east of Konya, and is surrounded by the Nigde in the south, Kirsehir in the north, Kayseri to the east and Aksaray to the west.

There is a mention of Cappadocia as a large and important Roman province in the Bible`s New Testament. However, this Central Anatolian region has been important since Hittite times, long before the time of Jesus.

Cappadocia is the cradle of one of the oldest civilizations of our world and the birthplace of many mysteries and legends, almost as if it is not real. Any travel lover would surely love to explore this fantastic place.

History of Cappadocia

The Cappadocians have an exotic and varied lineage to boast of and claim an ancestry from almost all of the powerful tribes of Asia and Europe. They vary right from Assyrians, Ancient Anatolian tribes, Hittites, Turkic tribes from Central Asia, Phrygians, Slavs, Persians, Syrians, Arabs, Kurds, Romans and Western Europeans, Armenians, Greeks to Mongols.

Fairy Chimneys, Cappadocia

Nature`s powers are wondrous and beautiful, one such example is the famed "fairy chimneys" of Cappadocia. These are moonlike landscapes formed by the continual erosion of the volcanic landscape by the wind and rain. If you leave Cappadocia without visiting this place your whole journey would go to waste.

[attachment=313]

Underground Cities in Cappadocia

The tourist spots in Cappadocia are almost unlimited and each of them is equally important. A major crowd puller to Cappadocia is its "Underground cities", there are thirty-six of them that has been discovered so far. These shelters were temporary rather than permanent places to stay and the main two are at Kaymakli and Derinkuyu. Amongst debating archaeologists, these caves have been dated to about 1200 BC. The cave dwellings show remarkable architectural sense and planning.

Churches and Monasteries in Cappadocia

The rock cut churches and monasteries were developed by the Christians from the cave dwellings and they are also situated deep underground. These excavations have reached down to about 85 meters, or until the water level has been reached, and are marked with efficient ventilation systems. There are many settlements in Cappadocia that were established primarily as ascetic communities following the rules mentioned by Bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in the 4th century, St. Basil the Great.

Goreme Valley is famous for its churches and these churches followed the rules laid down by St. Basil the Great. In fact it was under his guidance that the first churches of Goreme Valley were built. Presently the Goreme Valley with its numerous small communities having their own churches forming large monastic complex serves the purpose of the Open Air Museum.

The most striking monastery in Cappadocia is the Eskigumus Monastery, its main church is roomy and well ventilated, but the main point of interest lies in its well-preserved frescoes that are considered the best representative of Byzantine art in all of Cappadocia.

[attachment=314]

Cappadocia Hot Air Ballooning

Though hot air ballooning over Cappadocia may be an expensive affair, it is an experience not to be missed. The ride is offered over Turkey`s inaccessible Cappadocia valleys and narrow canyons, one of the most intriguing natural formations. Try to include this magical balloon ride in your travel plans. You will never regret!

Other Attractions and Activities in Cappadocia

Other places of interest are the Zelve Valley, Avanos (pottery and carpets), Ürgüp, Ihlara valley, Soganli, Sinasos and Hacibektas. However, if you are more of the outdoors type then other activities in summer like trekking, walking, horse riding, motorbike or mountain biking around the valleys is also available.

Shopping in Cappadocia

Avanos is a place in Cappadocia, which is famous for its pots. Intricate and beautiful, these pots make excellent memorabilia. Other attractive sets are mugs, ashtrays, ornate plates and chess sets. Clothes and spices are also a specialty of this region and if you are lucky enough you could bargain for the right price of a beautiful carpet.

Cappadocia Transportation

Cappadocia is easily accessible by bus from anywhere in Turkey. By train, it is slower and uncomfortable and these trains run from Istanbul and Ankara to Kayseri and Nigde. There are connecting flights of the Turkish Airlines, which connect Istanbul with Kayseri (daily) and Nevsehir (Tuzkoy airport) twice on a weekly basis.

If you are already in a hotel in Turkey, you can find many package tours that will take you to Cappadocia, show you all the attractions, accommodate you in a hotel for a few nights, and bring you back to your hotel.

[attachment=311]

[attachment=312]]]>
A fertile region between the two volcanoes - Hasan Dagi and Erciyes Dagi, lies the region of Cappadocia. Known as Cappadocia in the ancient times, at present it is informally called the Kapadokya. The town lies to the east of Konya, and is surrounded by the Nigde in the south, Kirsehir in the north, Kayseri to the east and Aksaray to the west.

There is a mention of Cappadocia as a large and important Roman province in the Bible`s New Testament. However, this Central Anatolian region has been important since Hittite times, long before the time of Jesus.

Cappadocia is the cradle of one of the oldest civilizations of our world and the birthplace of many mysteries and legends, almost as if it is not real. Any travel lover would surely love to explore this fantastic place.

History of Cappadocia

The Cappadocians have an exotic and varied lineage to boast of and claim an ancestry from almost all of the powerful tribes of Asia and Europe. They vary right from Assyrians, Ancient Anatolian tribes, Hittites, Turkic tribes from Central Asia, Phrygians, Slavs, Persians, Syrians, Arabs, Kurds, Romans and Western Europeans, Armenians, Greeks to Mongols.

Fairy Chimneys, Cappadocia

Nature`s powers are wondrous and beautiful, one such example is the famed "fairy chimneys" of Cappadocia. These are moonlike landscapes formed by the continual erosion of the volcanic landscape by the wind and rain. If you leave Cappadocia without visiting this place your whole journey would go to waste.

[attachment=313]

Underground Cities in Cappadocia

The tourist spots in Cappadocia are almost unlimited and each of them is equally important. A major crowd puller to Cappadocia is its "Underground cities", there are thirty-six of them that has been discovered so far. These shelters were temporary rather than permanent places to stay and the main two are at Kaymakli and Derinkuyu. Amongst debating archaeologists, these caves have been dated to about 1200 BC. The cave dwellings show remarkable architectural sense and planning.

Churches and Monasteries in Cappadocia

The rock cut churches and monasteries were developed by the Christians from the cave dwellings and they are also situated deep underground. These excavations have reached down to about 85 meters, or until the water level has been reached, and are marked with efficient ventilation systems. There are many settlements in Cappadocia that were established primarily as ascetic communities following the rules mentioned by Bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in the 4th century, St. Basil the Great.

Goreme Valley is famous for its churches and these churches followed the rules laid down by St. Basil the Great. In fact it was under his guidance that the first churches of Goreme Valley were built. Presently the Goreme Valley with its numerous small communities having their own churches forming large monastic complex serves the purpose of the Open Air Museum.

The most striking monastery in Cappadocia is the Eskigumus Monastery, its main church is roomy and well ventilated, but the main point of interest lies in its well-preserved frescoes that are considered the best representative of Byzantine art in all of Cappadocia.

[attachment=314]

Cappadocia Hot Air Ballooning

Though hot air ballooning over Cappadocia may be an expensive affair, it is an experience not to be missed. The ride is offered over Turkey`s inaccessible Cappadocia valleys and narrow canyons, one of the most intriguing natural formations. Try to include this magical balloon ride in your travel plans. You will never regret!

Other Attractions and Activities in Cappadocia

Other places of interest are the Zelve Valley, Avanos (pottery and carpets), Ürgüp, Ihlara valley, Soganli, Sinasos and Hacibektas. However, if you are more of the outdoors type then other activities in summer like trekking, walking, horse riding, motorbike or mountain biking around the valleys is also available.

Shopping in Cappadocia

Avanos is a place in Cappadocia, which is famous for its pots. Intricate and beautiful, these pots make excellent memorabilia. Other attractive sets are mugs, ashtrays, ornate plates and chess sets. Clothes and spices are also a specialty of this region and if you are lucky enough you could bargain for the right price of a beautiful carpet.

Cappadocia Transportation

Cappadocia is easily accessible by bus from anywhere in Turkey. By train, it is slower and uncomfortable and these trains run from Istanbul and Ankara to Kayseri and Nigde. There are connecting flights of the Turkish Airlines, which connect Istanbul with Kayseri (daily) and Nevsehir (Tuzkoy airport) twice on a weekly basis.

If you are already in a hotel in Turkey, you can find many package tours that will take you to Cappadocia, show you all the attractions, accommodate you in a hotel for a few nights, and bring you back to your hotel.

[attachment=311]

[attachment=312]]]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=1548 Sat, 21 Mar 2009 20:19:29 +0200 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=1548
The three-storied palace built on a symmetrical plan has 285 rooms and 43 halls. There is a 600 m long quay along the sea and two monumental gates, one of them very ornate, on the land side. Well-kept, beautiful gardens surround this seaside palace. In the middle, there is a large ballroom with a ceiling higher than the other sections. The entrance section of the palace was used for the receptions and meetings of the sultan, and the wing behind the ballroom used as the harem section.

The palace has survived intact with its original decorations, furniture, and the silk carpets and curtains. It surpasses all other palaces in the world in wealth and magnificence.

The walls and the ceilings are covered with paintings by the famous artists of the age and decorations made using tons of gold. All the furnishings in the important rooms and halls are in different shades of the same color. The ornate wooden floors have different designs in each room, and they are covered with the famous silk and wool carpets of Hereke, some of the finest examples of Turkish art.

Rare handmade artifacts from Europe and the Far East'decorate every room in the palace. Brilliant crystal chandeliers, candelabras and fireplaces add to the lavish decor.

The ballroom is the largest of its kind in the world. A 4.5 ton colossal crystal chandelier hangs from the 36 m high dome. The hall, which is used for important political meetings,receptions and balls, was previously heated by an oven-like system under the floor. Central heating and electricity were later additions to the palace.

Of the six baths in the palace, the one in the section reserved for men was made of unique and beautifully carved alabaster.

The upper galleries of the ballroom were reserved for orchestras and the diplomatic corps. Long hallways lead to the harem, where the bedrooms of the sultan and the quarters of his mother, other ladies of the court and the servants were located.

An annex in the north was reserved for the crown prince. The entrance to this building is from Beşiktaş and it now serves as the Museum of Fine Arts.

In the Republican era, Atatürk used to reside in this palace when he visited Istanbul. He died here in 1938 and before his body was taken to Ankara, it was laid in state while the public poured in to pay him their last respects.

[attachment=303]
[attachment=304]
[attachment=305]
[attachment=306]
[attachment=307]
[attachment=308]]]>
The three-storied palace built on a symmetrical plan has 285 rooms and 43 halls. There is a 600 m long quay along the sea and two monumental gates, one of them very ornate, on the land side. Well-kept, beautiful gardens surround this seaside palace. In the middle, there is a large ballroom with a ceiling higher than the other sections. The entrance section of the palace was used for the receptions and meetings of the sultan, and the wing behind the ballroom used as the harem section.

The palace has survived intact with its original decorations, furniture, and the silk carpets and curtains. It surpasses all other palaces in the world in wealth and magnificence.

The walls and the ceilings are covered with paintings by the famous artists of the age and decorations made using tons of gold. All the furnishings in the important rooms and halls are in different shades of the same color. The ornate wooden floors have different designs in each room, and they are covered with the famous silk and wool carpets of Hereke, some of the finest examples of Turkish art.

Rare handmade artifacts from Europe and the Far East'decorate every room in the palace. Brilliant crystal chandeliers, candelabras and fireplaces add to the lavish decor.

The ballroom is the largest of its kind in the world. A 4.5 ton colossal crystal chandelier hangs from the 36 m high dome. The hall, which is used for important political meetings,receptions and balls, was previously heated by an oven-like system under the floor. Central heating and electricity were later additions to the palace.

Of the six baths in the palace, the one in the section reserved for men was made of unique and beautifully carved alabaster.

The upper galleries of the ballroom were reserved for orchestras and the diplomatic corps. Long hallways lead to the harem, where the bedrooms of the sultan and the quarters of his mother, other ladies of the court and the servants were located.

An annex in the north was reserved for the crown prince. The entrance to this building is from Beşiktaş and it now serves as the Museum of Fine Arts.

In the Republican era, Atatürk used to reside in this palace when he visited Istanbul. He died here in 1938 and before his body was taken to Ankara, it was laid in state while the public poured in to pay him their last respects.

[attachment=303]
[attachment=304]
[attachment=305]
[attachment=306]
[attachment=307]
[attachment=308]]]> http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=1533 Sat, 21 Mar 2009 19:37:10 +0200 http://www.eltcafe.net/showthread.php?tid=1533
As with many ancient cities, Ankara has gone by several names over the ages: The Hittites gave it the name Ankuwash before 1200 BC. The Galatians and Romans called it Ancyra. In the classical, Hellenistic, and Byzantine periods it was known as Ἄγκυρα Ánkyra. It was also known as Angora after it fell to the Seljuks in 1073, and was so known up until 1930.

Centrally located in Anatolia, Ankara is an important commercial and industrial city. It is the center of the Turkish Government, and houses all foreign embassies. It is an important crossroads of trade, strategically located at the center of Turkey's highway and railway networks, and serves as the marketing center for the surrounding agricultural area. The city was famous for its long-haired Angora goat and its prized wool (mohair), a unique breed of cat (Angora cat), white rabbits and their prized wool (Angora wool), pears, honey, and the region's muscat grapes.

Ankara is situated upon a steep and rocky hill, which rises 150 m above the plain on the left bank of the Enguri Su, a tributary of the Sakarya (Sangarius) river. The city is located at 39°52'30" North, 32°52' East (39°52′30″N 32°49′60″E / 39.875, 32.8333Coordinates: 39°52′30″N 32°49′60″E / 39.875, 32.8333), about 351 kilometres (218 mi) to the southeast of Istanbul, the country's largest city. Ankara is one of the driest places in Turkey and is surrounded by a barren steppe vegetation, with various Hittite, Phrygian, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman archaeological sites. It has a harsh, dry continental climate with cold, snowy winters and hot, dry summers. Rainfall occurs mostly during the spring and autumn.

The hill which overlooks the city is crowned by the ruins of the old castle, which adds to the picturesqueness of the view, but only a few historic structures surrounding the old citadel have survived to our date. There are, however, many finely preserved remains of Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine architecture, the most remarkable being the Temple of Augustus and Rome (20 BC) which is also known as the Monumentum Ancyranum.

After Ankara became the capital of the newly founded Republic of Turkey, new development divided the city into an old section, called Ulus, and a new section, called Yenişehir. Ancient buildings reflecting Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history and narrow winding streets mark the old section. The new section, now centered around Kızılay, has the trappings of a more modern city: wide streets, hotels, theaters, shopping malls, and high-rises. Government offices and foreign embassies are also located in the new section.
Ankara has experienced a phenomenal growth since it was made Turkey's capital. It was "a small town of no importance" when it was made the capital of Turkey. In 1924, the year after the government had moved there, Ankara had about 35,000 residents. By 1927 there were 44,553 residents and by 1950 the population had grown to 286,781. By 2007 its population was well over five million.

Population

Ankara has a population of 3,763,591 (2007 census) of which 1,870,831 are men and 1,892,760 are women.

Ankara is the capital city of the Ankara Province, which has a population of 4,466,756 (2007 census).

Attractions - Museums

Anıtkabir

Anıtkabir is located on an imposing hill, Anıttepe quarter of the city, where the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Turkey, stands. Completed in 1953, it is an impressive fusion of ancient and modern architectural styles. An adjacent museum houses a wax statue of Atatürk, his writings, letters and personal items, as well as an exhibition of photographs recording important moments in his life and during the establishment of the Republic. Anıtkabir is open every day, while the adjacent museum is open every day except Mondays.

Ankara Ethnography Museum (Etnoğrafya Müzesi)

This museum is opposite the Opera House on Talat Paşa Boulevard, in the Ulus district. There is a fine collection of folkloric as well as Seljuk- and Ottoman-era artifacts.

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (Anadolu Medeniyetleri Müzesi)

Situated at the entrance of Ankara Castle, it is an old "bedesten" (covered bazaar) that has been beautifully restored and now houses a unique collection of Paleolithic, Neolithic, Hatti, Hittite, Phrygian, Urartian, and Roman works as well as a major section dedicated to Lydian treasures.

State Art and Sculpture Museum (Resim-Heykel Müzesi)

This museum is close to the Ethnography Museum and houses a rich collection of Turkish art from the late 19th century to the present day. There are also galleries which host guest exhibitions.

War of Independence Museum (Kurtuluş Savaşı Müzesi)

This building, located on Ulus Square, was originally the first Parliament building (TBMM) of the Republic of Turkey. The War of Independence was planned and directed here as recorded in various photographs and items presently on exhibition. In another display, wax figures of former presidents of the Republic of Turkey are on exhibit.

TCDD Locomotive Museum

An open-air museum near the railway station on Celal Bayar Boulevard which traces the history of steam locomotion through the locomotives and artifacts on display.

Turkish Air Force Aviation Museum

Museum is near the İstanbul Road, Etimesgut. The museum is home to various aircraft which are or have served in Turkish Air Force (Jets like F-86, F-100, F-102, F-104, F-5, F-4 and cargo planes like C-160 transtall). Also a Hungarian Mig-21, a Pakistani Mig-19 and a Bulgarian Mig-17 are on display in the museum.

Archeological sites

Victory Monument (Zafer Anıtı)

Erected in 1927 on Zafer Square in the Sıhhiye quarter, it depicts Atatürk in uniform.

Ankara Citadel

The foundations of the citadel were laid by the Galatians on a prominent lava outcrop, and the rest was completed by the Romans. The Byzantines and Seljuks further made restorations and additions. The area around and inside the citadel, being the oldest part of Ankara, contains many fine examples of traditional architecture. There are also recreational areas to relax. Many restored traditional Turkish houses inside the citadel area have found new life as restaurants, serving local cuisine, music and of course, Rakı.

Roman Theatre

The remains, the stage, and the backstage can be seen outside the castle. Roman statues that were found here are exhibited in the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (see above). The seating area is still under excavation.

Temple of Augustus and Rome

The temple, also known as the Monumentum Ancyranum, was built between 25 BC - 20 BC following the conquest of Central Anatolia by the Roman Empire and the formation of the Roman province of Galatia, with Ancyra (modern Ankara) as its administrative capital. After the death of Augustus in 14 AD, a copy of the text of Res Gestae Divi Augusti was inscribed on the interior of the pronaos in Latin, whereas a Greek translation is also present on an exterior wall of the cella. The temple, on the ancient Acropolis of Ancyra, was enlarged by the Romans in the 2nd century. In the 5th century it was converted into a church by the Byzantines. It is located in the Ulus quarter of the city.

Roman Bath

This bath has all the typical features of a classical Roman bath: a frigidarium (cold room), tepidarium (cool room) and caldarium (hot room). The bath was built during the reign of Emperor Caracalla in the 3rd century AD to honour Asclepios, the God of Medicine. Today, only the basement and first floors remain. It is situated in the Ulus quarter.

Column of Julian

This column, in Ulus, was erected in 362 to commemorate a visit by the Roman Emperor Julian. It stands fifteen meters high and has a typical leaf decoration on the capital.

Modern monuments

Monument to a Secure, Confident Future

This monument, located in Güven Park near Kızılay Square, was erected in 1935 and bears Atatürk's advice to his people: "Turk! Be proud, work hard, and believe in yourself."

Hatti Monument

Built in the 1970s on Sıhhiye Square, this impressive monument symbolizes the Hatti gods and commemorates Anatolia's earliest known civilization.

Mosques

Hacı Bayram Mosque

This mosque, in the Ulus quarter next to the Temple of Augustus, was built in the early 15th century in Seljuk style by an unknown architect. It was subsequently restored by architect Sinan in the 16th century, with Kütahya tiles being added in the 18th century. The mosque was built in honor of Hacı Bayram Veli, whose tomb is next to the mosque, two years before his death (1427-28). The usable space inside this mosque is 437 square meters on the first floor and 263 square meters on the second floor.

Parks

Ankara has many parks and open spaces mainly established in the early years of the Republic and well maintained and expanded thereafter. The most important of these parks are: Gençlik Park (houses an amusement park with a large pond for rowing), the Botanical Garden, Seğmenler Park, Anayasa Park, Kuğulu Park (famous for the swans received as a gift from the Chinese government), Abdi İpekçi Park, Güven Park (see above for the monument), Kurtuluş Park (has an ice-skating rink), Altınpark (also a prominent exposition/fair area), Harikalar Diyarı (claimed to be Biggest Park of Europe inside city borders) and Göksu Park.

Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo (Atatürk Orman Çiftliği) is an expansive recreational farming area which houses a zoo, several small agricultural farms, greenhouses, restaurants, a dairy farm and a brewery. It is a pleasant place to spend a day with family, be it for having picnics, hiking, biking or simply enjoying good food and nature. There is also an exact replica of the house where Atatürk was born in 1881, in Thessaloniki, Greece. Visitors to the "Çiftlik" (farm) as it is affectionately called by Ankarans, can sample such famous products of the farm such as old-fashioned beer and ice cream, fresh dairy products and meat rolls/kebaps made on charcoal, at a traditional restaurant (Merkez Lokantası, Central Restaurant), cafés and other establishments scattered around the farm.

Shopping

Foreign visitors to Ankara usually like to visit the old shops in Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu (Weavers' Road) near Ulus, where myriad things ranging from traditional fabrics, hand-woven carpets and leather products can be found at bargain prices. Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Bazaar of Coppersmiths) is particularly popular, and many interesting items, not just of copper, can be found here like jewelry, carpets, costumes, antiques and embroidery. Up the hill to the castle gate, there are many shops selling a huge and fresh collection of spices, dried fruits, nuts, and other produce.

Modern shopping areas are mostly found in Kızılay, or on Tunalı Hilmi Avenue, including the modern mall of Karum which is located towards the end of the Avenue; and in the Atakule Tower at Çankaya, the quarter with the highest elevation in the city, which commands a magnificent view over the whole city and also has a revolving restaurant at the top where the complete panorama can be enjoyed in a more leisurely fashion.

As Ankara started expanding westward in the 1970s, there are several modern, suburbia-style developments and mini-cities along the western highway, also known as the Eskişehir Road. The Armada and CEPA malls on the highway, the Galleria in Ümitköy, and a huge mall in Bilkent Center offer North American and European style shopping opportunities (these places can be reached following the Eskişehir Highway). There is also the newly expanded Ankamall at the outskirts, on the Istanbul Highway, which houses most of the well-known European brands. This mall is the largest throughout the Ankara region.

Culture and education

Turkish State Opera and Ballet, the national directorate of opera and ballet companies of Turkey, has its headquarters in Ankara, and serves the city with three venues:

Ankara Opera House (Opera Sahnesi, also known as Büyük Tiyatro)
Leyla Gencer Sahnesi (named after world-famous soprano Leyla Gencer)
Operet Sahnesi (also known as the Türkocağı Binası)
The Turkish State Theatres also has its head office in Ankara and runs the following stages in the city:

125. Yıl Çayyolu Sahnesi
Büyük Tiyatro (also doubling as the Ankara Opera House)
Küçük Tiyatro,
Şinasi Sahnesi,
Akün Sahnesi,
Altındağ Tiyatrosu,
İrfan Şahinbaş Atölye Sahnesi,
Oda Tiyatrosu,
Mahir Canova Sahnesi,
Muhsin Ertuğrul Sahnesi.
In addition the city is served by several private theatre companies among which Ankara Sanat Tiyatrosu who have their own stage in the city centre is a notable example.

Ankara is host to five classical music orchestras:

Cumhurbaşkanlığı Senfoni Orkestrası (Turkish Presidential Symphony Orchestra)
Bilkent Senfoni Orkestrası
Hacettepe Senfoni Orkestrası
Orkestra Akademik Başkent
Başkent Oda Orkestrası (Chamber Orchestra of the Capital)

There are four concert halls in the city:

CSO Konser Salonu
Bilkent Konser Salonu
MEB Şura Salonu (also known as the Festival Hall)
Çankaya Çağdaş Sanatlar Merkezi Konser Salonu

The city has been host to several well-established, annual theatre, music, film festivals:

Ankara Film Festivali
Ankara Uluslararası Müzik Festivali (International Ankara Music Festival)
Ankara Tiyatro Festivali
Ankara Caz Festivali

Universities

Ankara is noted, within Turkey, for the multitude of universities it is home to. These include the following, several of them being among the most reputable in the country:

Ankara University
Atılım University
Başkent University
Bilkent University
Çankaya University
Gazi University
Hacettepe University
Middle East Technical University
TOBB University of Economics and Technology
Ufuk University
Gülhane Military Academy of Medicine
Turkish Military Academy
Turkish National Police Academy

Transportation

Esenboğa International Airport, located in the north-east of the city, is the main airport of Ankara.

Ankara Intercity Bus Terminal (Turkish: Ankara Şehirlerarası Terminal İşletmesi, AŞTİ) is an important part of the bus network which covers every neighbourhood in the city.

The central train station, "Ankara Garı" of the Turkish State Railways (Turkish: Türkiye Cumhuriyeti Devlet Demiryolları, TCDD), is an important hub connecting the western and eastern parts of the country. High-speed rail services are to be operated between Ankara and Istanbul, beginning in 2009.

The Electricity, Gas, Bus General Directorate (EGO) operates the Ankara Metro and other forms of public transportation. Ankara is currently served by suburban rail and two subway lines with about 300,000 total daily commuters, and three additional subway lines are under construction.

Sports

Like in all the other cities of Turkey, football is the most popular sport in Ankara. The city has four football clubs currently competing in the Turkcell Super League: Gençlerbirliği (finished 5th in the league on the 2006-07 season), Büyükşehir Belediye Ankaraspor (finished 7th in the league on the 2006-07 season), and Ankaragücü (finished 13th in the league on the 2006/2007 season). The fourth club, Gençlerbirliği OFTAŞ has moved to participate in the Turkcell Super League during the 2007-08 season which started on August 10, 2007. Ankara 19 Mayıs Stadium is the venue for football games and has a capacity of 21,250 (all-seater).

In the Turkish Basketball League, Ankara is represented by Türk Telekom and CASA TED Ankara Kolejliler.

Ankara Buz Pateni Sarayı is where the ice skating and ice hockey competitions take place in the city.

There are many popular spots for skateboarding which is active in the city since the 1980s. Skaters in Ankara usually meet in the park near the Grand National Assembly of Turkey.]]>
As with many ancient cities, Ankara has gone by several names over the ages: The Hittites gave it the name Ankuwash before 1200 BC. The Galatians and Romans called it Ancyra. In the classical, Hellenistic, and Byzantine periods it was known as Ἄγκυρα Ánkyra. It was also known as Angora after it fell to the Seljuks in 1073, and was so known up until 1930.

Centrally located in Anatolia, Ankara is an important commercial and industrial city. It is the center of the Turkish Government, and houses all foreign embassies. It is an important crossroads of trade, strategically located at the center of Turkey's highway and railway networks, and serves as the marketing center for the surrounding agricultural area. The city was famous for its long-haired Angora goat and its prized wool (mohair), a unique breed of cat (Angora cat), white rabbits and their prized wool (Angora wool), pears, honey, and the region's muscat grapes.

Ankara is situated upon a steep and rocky hill, which rises 150 m above the plain on the left bank of the Enguri Su, a tributary of the Sakarya (Sangarius) river. The city is located at 39°52'30" North, 32°52' East (39°52′30″N 32°49′60″E / 39.875, 32.8333Coordinates: 39°52′30″N 32°49′60″E / 39.875, 32.8333), about 351 kilometres (218 mi) to the southeast of Istanbul, the country's largest city. Ankara is one of the driest places in Turkey and is surrounded by a barren steppe vegetation, with various Hittite, Phrygian, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman archaeological sites. It has a harsh, dry continental climate with cold, snowy winters and hot, dry summers. Rainfall occurs mostly during the spring and autumn.

The hill which overlooks the city is crowned by the ruins of the old castle, which adds to the picturesqueness of the view, but only a few historic structures surrounding the old citadel have survived to our date. There are, however, many finely preserved remains of Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine architecture, the most remarkable being the Temple of Augustus and Rome (20 BC) which is also known as the Monumentum Ancyranum.

After Ankara became the capital of the newly founded Republic of Turkey, new development divided the city into an old section, called Ulus, and a new section, called Yenişehir. Ancient buildings reflecting Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history and narrow winding streets mark the old section. The new section, now centered around Kızılay, has the trappings of a more modern city: wide streets, hotels, theaters, shopping malls, and high-rises. Government offices and foreign embassies are also located in the new section.
Ankara has experienced a phenomenal growth since it was made Turkey's capital. It was "a small town of no importance" when it was made the capital of Turkey. In 1924, the year after the government had moved there, Ankara had about 35,000 residents. By 1927 there were 44,553 residents and by 1950 the population had grown to 286,781. By 2007 its population was well over five million.

Population

Ankara has a population of 3,763,591 (2007 census) of which 1,870,831 are men and 1,892,760 are women.

Ankara is the capital city of the Ankara Province, which has a population of 4,466,756 (2007 census).

Attractions - Museums

Anıtkabir

Anıtkabir is located on an imposing hill, Anıttepe quarter of the city, where the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Turkey, stands. Completed in 1953, it is an impressive fusion of ancient and modern architectural styles. An adjacent museum houses a wax statue of Atatürk, his writings, letters and personal items, as well as an exhibition of photographs recording important moments in his life and during the establishment of the Republic. Anıtkabir is open every day, while the adjacent museum is open every day except Mondays.

Ankara Ethnography Museum (Etnoğrafya Müzesi)

This museum is opposite the Opera House on Talat Paşa Boulevard, in the Ulus district. There is a fine collection of folkloric as well as Seljuk- and Ottoman-era artifacts.

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (Anadolu Medeniyetleri Müzesi)

Situated at the entrance of Ankara Castle, it is an old "bedesten" (covered bazaar) that has been beautifully restored and now houses a unique collection of Paleolithic, Neolithic, Hatti, Hittite, Phrygian, Urartian, and Roman works as well as a major section dedicated to Lydian treasures.

State Art and Sculpture Museum (Resim-Heykel Müzesi)

This museum is close to the Ethnography Museum and houses a rich collection of Turkish art from the late 19th century to the present day. There are also galleries which host guest exhibitions.

War of Independence Museum (Kurtuluş Savaşı Müzesi)

This building, located on Ulus Square, was originally the first Parliament building (TBMM) of the Republic of Turkey. The War of Independence was planned and directed here as recorded in various photographs and items presently on exhibition. In another display, wax figures of former presidents of the Republic of Turkey are on exhibit.

TCDD Locomotive Museum

An open-air museum near the railway station on Celal Bayar Boulevard which traces the history of steam locomotion through the locomotives and artifacts on display.

Turkish Air Force Aviation Museum

Museum is near the İstanbul Road, Etimesgut. The museum is home to various aircraft which are or have served in Turkish Air Force (Jets like F-86, F-100, F-102, F-104, F-5, F-4 and cargo planes like C-160 transtall). Also a Hungarian Mig-21, a Pakistani Mig-19 and a Bulgarian Mig-17 are on display in the museum.

Archeological sites

Victory Monument (Zafer Anıtı)

Erected in 1927 on Zafer Square in the Sıhhiye quarter, it depicts Atatürk in uniform.

Ankara Citadel

The foundations of the citadel were laid by the Galatians on a prominent lava outcrop, and the rest was completed by the Romans. The Byzantines and Seljuks further made restorations and additions. The area around and inside the citadel, being the oldest part of Ankara, contains many fine examples of traditional architecture. There are also recreational areas to relax. Many restored traditional Turkish houses inside the citadel area have found new life as restaurants, serving local cuisine, music and of course, Rakı.

Roman Theatre

The remains, the stage, and the backstage can be seen outside the castle. Roman statues that were found here are exhibited in the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (see above). The seating area is still under excavation.

Temple of Augustus and Rome

The temple, also known as the Monumentum Ancyranum, was built between 25 BC - 20 BC following the conquest of Central Anatolia by the Roman Empire and the formation of the Roman province of Galatia, with Ancyra (modern Ankara) as its administrative capital. After the death of Augustus in 14 AD, a copy of the text of Res Gestae Divi Augusti was inscribed on the interior of the pronaos in Latin, whereas a Greek translation is also present on an exterior wall of the cella. The temple, on the ancient Acropolis of Ancyra, was enlarged by the Romans in the 2nd century. In the 5th century it was converted into a church by the Byzantines. It is located in the Ulus quarter of the city.

Roman Bath

This bath has all the typical features of a classical Roman bath: a frigidarium (cold room), tepidarium (cool room) and caldarium (hot room). The bath was built during the reign of Emperor Caracalla in the 3rd century AD to honour Asclepios, the God of Medicine. Today, only the basement and first floors remain. It is situated in the Ulus quarter.

Column of Julian

This column, in Ulus, was erected in 362 to commemorate a visit by the Roman Emperor Julian. It stands fifteen meters high and has a typical leaf decoration on the capital.

Modern monuments

Monument to a Secure, Confident Future

This monument, located in Güven Park near Kızılay Square, was erected in 1935 and bears Atatürk's advice to his people: "Turk! Be proud, work hard, and believe in yourself."

Hatti Monument

Built in the 1970s on Sıhhiye Square, this impressive monument symbolizes the Hatti gods and commemorates Anatolia's earliest known civilization.

Mosques

Hacı Bayram Mosque

This mosque, in the Ulus quarter next to the Temple of Augustus, was built in the early 15th century in Seljuk style by an unknown architect. It was subsequently restored by architect Sinan in the 16th century, with Kütahya tiles being added in the 18th century. The mosque was built in honor of Hacı Bayram Veli, whose tomb is next to the mosque, two years before his death (1427-28). The usable space inside this mosque is 437 square meters on the first floor and 263 square meters on the second floor.

Parks

Ankara has many parks and open spaces mainly established in the early years of the Republic and well maintained and expanded thereafter. The most important of these parks are: Gençlik Park (houses an amusement park with a large pond for rowing), the Botanical Garden, Seğmenler Park, Anayasa Park, Kuğulu Park (famous for the swans received as a gift from the Chinese government), Abdi İpekçi Park, Güven Park (see above for the monument), Kurtuluş Park (has an ice-skating rink), Altınpark (also a prominent exposition/fair area), Harikalar Diyarı (claimed to be Biggest Park of Europe inside city borders) and Göksu Park.

Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo (Atatürk Orman Çiftliği) is an expansive recreational farming area which houses a zoo, several small agricultural farms, greenhouses, restaurants, a dairy farm and a brewery. It is a pleasant place to spend a day with family, be it for having picnics, hiking, biking or simply enjoying good food and nature. There is also an exact replica of the house where Atatürk was born in 1881, in Thessaloniki, Greece. Visitors to the "Çiftlik" (farm) as it is affectionately called by Ankarans, can sample such famous products of the farm such as old-fashioned beer and ice cream, fresh dairy products and meat rolls/kebaps made on charcoal, at a traditional restaurant (Merkez Lokantası, Central Restaurant), cafés and other establishments scattered around the farm.

Shopping

Foreign visitors to Ankara usually like to visit the old shops in Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu (Weavers' Road) near Ulus, where myriad things ranging from traditional fabrics, hand-woven carpets and leather products can be found at bargain prices. Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Bazaar of Coppersmiths) is particularly popular, and many interesting items, not just of copper, can be found here like jewelry, carpets, costumes, antiques and embroidery. Up the hill to the castle gate, there are many shops selling a huge and fresh collection of spices, dried fruits, nuts, and other produce.

Modern shopping areas are mostly found in Kızılay, or on Tunalı Hilmi Avenue, including the modern mall of Karum which is located towards the end of the Avenue; and in the Atakule Tower at Çankaya, the quarter with the highest elevation in the city, which commands a magnificent view over the whole city and also has a revolving restaurant at the top where the complete panorama can be enjoyed in a more leisurely fashion.

As Ankara started expanding westward in the 1970s, there are several modern, suburbia-style developments and mini-cities along the western highway, also known as the Eskişehir Road. The Armada and CEPA malls on the highway, the Galleria in Ümitköy, and a huge mall in Bilkent Center offer North American and European style shopping opportunities (these places can be reached following the Eskişehir Highway). There is also the newly expanded Ankamall at the outskirts, on the Istanbul Highway, which houses most of the well-known European brands. This mall is the largest throughout the Ankara region.

Culture and education

Turkish State Opera and Ballet, the national directorate of opera and ballet companies of Turkey, has its headquarters in Ankara, and serves the city with three venues:

Ankara Opera House (Opera Sahnesi, also known as Büyük Tiyatro)
Leyla Gencer Sahnesi (named after world-famous soprano Leyla Gencer)
Operet Sahnesi (also known as the Türkocağı Binası)
The Turkish State Theatres also has its head office in Ankara and runs the following stages in the city:

125. Yıl Çayyolu Sahnesi
Büyük Tiyatro (also doubling as the Ankara Opera House)
Küçük Tiyatro,
Şinasi Sahnesi,
Akün Sahnesi,
Altındağ Tiyatrosu,
İrfan Şahinbaş Atölye Sahnesi,
Oda Tiyatrosu,
Mahir Canova Sahnesi,
Muhsin Ertuğrul Sahnesi.
In addition the city is served by several private theatre companies among which Ankara Sanat Tiyatrosu who have their own stage in the city centre is a notable example.

Ankara is host to five classical music orchestras:

Cumhurbaşkanlığı Senfoni Orkestrası (Turkish Presidential Symphony Orchestra)
Bilkent Senfoni Orkestrası
Hacettepe Senfoni Orkestrası
Orkestra Akademik Başkent
Başkent Oda Orkestrası (Chamber Orchestra of the Capital)

There are four concert halls in the city:

CSO Konser Salonu
Bilkent Konser Salonu
MEB Şura Salonu (also known as the Festival Hall)
Çankaya Çağdaş Sanatlar Merkezi Konser Salonu

The city has been host to several well-established, annual theatre, music, film festivals:

Ankara Film Festivali
Ankara Uluslararası Müzik Festivali (International Ankara Music Festival)
Ankara Tiyatro Festivali
Ankara Caz Festivali

Universities

Ankara is noted, within Turkey, for the multitude of universities it is home to. These include the following, several of them being among the most reputable in the country:

Ankara University
Atılım University
Başkent University
Bilkent University
Çankaya University
Gazi University
Hacettepe University
Middle East Technical University
TOBB University of Economics and Technology
Ufuk University
Gülhane Military Academy of Medicine
Turkish Military Academy
Turkish National Police Academy

Transportation

Esenboğa International Airport, located in the north-east of the city, is the main airport of Ankara.

Ankara Intercity Bus Terminal (Turkish: Ankara Şehirlerarası Terminal İşletmesi, AŞTİ) is an important part of the bus network which covers every neighbourhood in the city.

The central train station, "Ankara Garı" of the Turkish State Railways (Turkish: Türkiye Cumhuriyeti Devlet Demiryolları, TCDD), is an important hub connecting the western and eastern parts of the country. High-speed rail services are to be operated between Ankara and Istanbul, beginning in 2009.

The Electricity, Gas, Bus General Directorate (EGO) operates the Ankara Metro and other forms of public transportation. Ankara is currently served by suburban rail and two subway lines with about 300,000 total daily commuters, and three additional subway lines are under construction.

Sports

Like in all the other cities of Turkey, football is the most popular sport in Ankara. The city has four football clubs currently competing in the Turkcell Super League: Gençlerbirliği (finished 5th in the league on the 2006-07 season), Büyükşehir Belediye Ankaraspor (finished 7th in the league on the 2006-07 season), and Ankaragücü (finished 13th in the league on the 2006/2007 season). The fourth club, Gençlerbirliği OFTAŞ has moved to participate in the Turkcell Super League during the 2007-08 season which started on August 10, 2007. Ankara 19 Mayıs Stadium is the venue for football games and has a capacity of 21,250 (all-seater).

In the Turkish Basketball League, Ankara is represented by Türk Telekom and CASA TED Ankara Kolejliler.

Ankara Buz Pateni Sarayı is where the ice skating and ice hockey competitions take place in the city.

There are many popular spots for skateboarding which is active in the city since the 1980s. Skaters in Ankara usually meet in the park near the Grand National Assembly of Turkey.]]>