By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team Compilation & Report
Turkey is a country that spans both Europe and Asia. Shaped by diverse historical and cultural influences, the land boasts a variety of vivid and unique cultural characteristics. In addition to experiencing the Turkish bath and local desserts, visitors should also explore the magnificent ancient cities and mosques.
Turkey’s famous attraction, the Blue Mosque (Photo / Jin Zhan Travel Agency)
1. Blue Mosque
Turkey is home to many renowned mosques, among which the Blue Mosque is the most famous. Adorned with Iznik blue tiles and floral motifs such as tulips, the mosque stands solemnly opposite the Hagia Sophia. Admission to the Blue Mosque is free, and scarves are provided for women to cover exposed skin.
The grand entrance of the Blue Mosque welcomes countless devout worshippers and tourists every day (Photo provided / Zoe Lee)
2. Ancient City of Ephesus
The ancient city of Ephesus, known as Ephesus in the Bible, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world and the largest Greco-Roman city. Its ruins include the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), a library, a theater, and tombstones.
The Library of Celsus in Ephesus (Photo / Wikipedia)
The Ancient Theater of Ephesus (Photo / Wikipedia)
3. House of the Virgin Mary
Among the many spectacular ruins in the ancient city of Ephesus, the most famous is the final home of the Virgin Mary, located on the hillside behind the ancient city. It is said that after Jesus was crucified, the Virgin Mary, accompanied by St. John, left Palestine and fled to the mountains near Ephesus, making it a biblical landmark.
The House of the Virgin Mary (Photo / Wikipedia)
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