Tripology Travel Experts Blog

Religious Tourism in Eastern Turkey

When you think of ancient Turkey, chances are your mind wanders to golden and silver roofed mosques, ancient Sultans, and palaces with sweeping views of the Bosphorous.  Turkey’s history is much richer than that, however stunning the Ottoman relics may be.  
     Regardless of the religion you identify with, Eastern Turkey is home to many famed sites.  With ancient cities along the Tigris and Euphrates, Turkey’s history is as old as that of modern civilization: from Seljuks to Armenians, early Christians and Ottomans.  This trip itinerary will take you to holy sites for all of Turkey’s inhabitants, from a lost Armenian capital to Abraham’s birthplace, the reputed sight of Noah’s ark to the first ever church, centuries old monasteries and those still preaching in Aramaic.
     The best time of year to visit eastern Turkey is the end of summer, either late August or early September.  If you wait until October, chances are there will be snow already covering many of the northern sites.
     Be aware that you are going to very religious areas; dress appropriately.  Though it is not necessary for women to cover their hair at all times, it is when in Mosques.  You will see nary a tank top, even on travelers, and alcohol is hard to find in many areas outside of hotel bars and some higher-end restaurants.  Having at least some basic Turkish phrases down is helpful, but not necessary, though patience is.  
     The best way to do this trip is by renting a car.  The mountains flow into valleys and desert, and the scenery is beautiful throughout the region.

Sample itinerary:
Trabzon and the Sumela Monastery
Kars and the Ancient City of Ani
Dogubeyazit and Ishak Pasha Palace
The city of Van and its surroundings
Midyat, Mardin, and Hasankeyf
Diyarbakir, the largest walled-in city in the world
SanliUrfa, birthplace of Abraham
Mt. Nemrut, Antiochus' personal shrine
Gaziantep
Hatay and Adana.

Share:

20 Responses

You must login to post a comment

Request a Free Quote From up to 3 Travel Specialists

Save time. Great values. Tripology.com






  • Services required:

Subscribe to Tripology Blog

Featured Travel Video

powered by

Watch more travel videos at www.tripfilms.com

Latest Tripology Blog Posts