Best UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Visit in Turkey

Turkey attracts people from all over the world with its natural and historical beauties. Every year, millions of tourists visit different parts of Turkey to see the beauties of the country. Not surprisingly, these significant places of the country get appreciated by prestigious organizations. Being at the forefront of these prestigious organizations, UNESCO includes these riches found in various countries in its list of World Heritage Sites. Emphasizing the need to protect these unique beauties, the organization included many natural and historical beauties in Turkey on the list. Now we will take you on a unique journey on this list.

Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia

Cappadocia is one of the unique beauties of Turkey. Fairy chimneys and Göreme National Park, which are among the landmarks of the country, are located in the city of Nevşehir in the Central Anatolian region. The most important feature of Göreme National Park and the Cappadocia Region is that it has many fairy chimneys formed by wind and rainwater. Pigeon houses built on the high slopes of the Soğanlı, Zelve and Üzengi Valleys, and monk cells carved into the depths of the valleys add value to the area. With the balloon tours you will make in the region, the time you will spend here will become even more enjoyable.

Mount Nemrut

Mount Nemrut, located in Adıyaman, has a fascinating appearance with its majesty. The tombs and monumental statues built on the slopes of Mount Nemrut, which is 2,150 meters high, to show his gratitude to the gods and ancestors of the King of Commagene, Antiochus I, are one of the most magnificent ruins of the Hellenistic Period.

Archaeological Site of Troy

Troy is one of the world's most well-known ancient cities. The nine layers of Troy span over 3000 years and allow us to trace the civilizations that existed in this unique geography where Anatolia, the Aegean, and the Balkans meet. As a result of the excavations, a theater, baths, various finds, a highly developed sewer system, and building foundations were discovered here.

Ephesus

Ephesus, the apple of the Aegean's eye, fascinates everyone. The first establishment of the ancient city of Ephesus within the borders of Selçuk District of İzmir dates back to 6000 BC. Ephesus was an important port city and the principal entrance between East and West. Because of its strategic location, Ephesus became the most significant political and commercial hub of its day while being the capital of the Roman province of Asia. Ephesus' significance in antiquity is not just due to this feature. Ephesus also has the largest temple of the Artemis cult, based on Anatolia's ancient mother goddess (Kybele) tradition.

Göbekli Tepe

Göbeklitepe, which takes us on a journey into the depths of history, is on the world agenda with its mysteries. Göbeklitepe Archaeological Site is located 18 kilometers northeast of Şanlıurfa city center, near Örencik Village. After the excavations started in 1994, it was discovered that Göbeklitepe was a cult center dating back 12.000 years. Because of its location and the monumentality of its structures, Göbeklitepe was believed to be a one-of-a-kind Neolithic sanctuary. Because the region was left untouched in its natural environment for 12.000 years, it has yielded significant archaeological artifacts.