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    Where history began: Mesopotamia

    An oasis between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers, offering abundance that gave life to civilizations… the geographic, geopolitical and cultural significance of Anatolia’s Mesopotamia cannot be overstated. In this Logbook, we present an overview of the region – let’s get started!

    Turkish Airlines Blog
    Turkish Airlines Blog
    With this account, managed by our writer team, we welcome all who love travel and exploration to enjoy these blog posts. And we gently remind our readers of the delight to be found in 'hitting the road'. As Tolstoy said: “All great literature is one of two stories; a man goes on a journey or a stranger comes to town.”

    Commune with the past: Historical places in Mesopotamia 

    Mount Nemrut
    An important site dating from the Hellenistic period, Mount Nemrut is home to the tombs and sculptures erected by Commagene King Antiochus I Soter in honor of the gods.

    Mesopotamian history is illuminated by one of the oldest settlements of all time and by important ruins from the Hellenistic period; by the long, narrow Diyarbakır Walls and by countless temples. Fortunately, you don’t need to go far to make new discoveries and take an intriguing journey through time: Check out Fertile lands: Historical sites of Mesopotamia, book an affordable flight, and be on your way!


    Journey to ancient cities

    the ancient city of Halfeti
    Halfeti Ancient City

    Halfeti, dating from 855 BC, lies between Sanliurfa and Gaziantep – 105 kilometers from the former and 110 kilometers from the latter. The Arsameia Ancient City, dating from the Commagene era, is on the Nemrut Mountain route, in Adıyaman; Arsameia is believed to have served as the summer capital of the Commagenes. Çayönü Ancient City is in Diyarbakır, on the borders of Mesopotamia. And there’s much more – just check out The cradle of civilization: Ancient Cities in the Mesopotamian region. You might want to take notes. ☺


    Mesopotamia’s open-air museums

    zerzevan castle and mithras temple
    Zerzevan Castle and Mithras Temple

    The astonishing history of Türkiye’s southeast is vividly illustrated in fertile landscapes and extraordinary structures that essentially present an open-air museum. For more information on the incredible Göbeklitepe Ruins, which have revolutionized our knowledge of human history, or Mount Nemrut, with its ancient ruins and sculptures from the Commagene Kingdom, you can read Spring routes: Open-air museums in the Southeast. This blog also describes the popular Yesemek Ruins, which are located on 110 acres of land within the borders of Gaziantep.


    Camping experience in the Southeast

    camp in the southeast
    Camping in the Southeast stands out as a rare experience.

    Camping may not be the first activity that comes to mind when contemplating the Southeastern Anatolia Region, but the area offers a compelling atmosphere that brings camping to a new level. Moreover, the Mesopotamia region hosts impressive campsites along with its other beauties. Discover the campsites around Şanlıurfa, the city of prophets, and Mardin, the fairy tale city, in our blog Accompanied by a mysterious atmosphere: Campgrounds in the Urfa and Mardin provinces.


    Mesopotamia’s mouthwatering routes

    liver skewer
    Liver shish kebab is a signature flavor of Diyarbakır cuisine.

    No overview is complete without food and certainly southeastern Anatolia is among the regions most prominent in Türkiye’s deep gastronomic history. A variety of unusual and delicious local and regional flavors can be found across the southeast and a culinary tour of the three ancient cities of Mesopotamia – Diyarbakır, Şanlıurfa and Mardin – will whet your appetite. For more information, read our blog, Taste routes: The culinary traditions of Diyarbakır, Urfa and Mardin. ☺


    An extraordinary journey to Diyarbakir

    Diyarbakır Dicle Bridge
    Diyarbakır Dicle Bridge

    Diyarbakır is a remarkable city that has hosted many civilizations in its nine thousand years of history. With a variety of cultures and monumental structures dating from the Stone Age, Diyarbakır is a city of Mesopotamia worth visiting. Our article on Diyarbakır’s highlights provides information on the area’s historical sites, local dishes and drinks, and much more!


    The colors and harmony of Hatay

    habib-ineccar mosque
    Habib’i Neccar Mosque, Hatay

    Hatay, where traces of history linger in every corner, is a sanctuary of multiculturalism. Home to centuries-old mosques and churches, and the Orontos River, a miracle of nature, Hatay is also famous for its culinary culture. Our sightseeing guide One city, three days: Hatay, offers an overview of the area’s historical sites, cuisine and more!

    *The date of this blog post may have been updated due to additional content. Please be aware that information on fees and transportation is subject to change. The content of this post reflects the author's opinion and views.

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