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Echoes of History: Afyon’s Cultural Route

Culture and Art House

Unearth the captivating labyrinth of Türkiye's vibrant arts and culture scene at the Culture and Art House in Afyonkarahisar. An enchanting sanctuary of creative expression, this brilliant hub will sweep you away on a kaleidoscopic journey through the country's rich traditions and diversified arts scene. Nestled in the charming city of Afyonkarahisar, this art house stands as a proud testament to Türkiye's timeless history and heritage. As you step into this cultural oasis, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where art and history fuse, painting a resplendent panorama of Türkiye's cultural legacy.

Bedesten

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Explore the historic Bedesten, a bustling marketplace once at the heart of trade, now offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with shops, cafes, and a glimpse into the rich commercial history of the region.

Taşhan

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Step back in time at Taş Han, a historical inn that offers a glimpse into the rich mercantile history of the region.

Grand Mosque

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Artuklu Dönemi mimari örneklerinden, dilimli kubbesi ve minaresiyle Mardin’in sembolü olan Mardin Grand Mosque kayıtlara göre iki minareli inşa edilmiştir. Mosquenin bugün mevcut olan tek minaresinin kare kaidesindeki yazıt, yapım tarihini 1176 olarak vermektedir, fakat bugünkü minare 1888/1889 yıllarında yeni ve elektik bir üslupla yapılmıştır. Bazı Süryani yazarlar kiliseden çevrildiğini söylerler. Yapı kiliseden çevrilmemiş olsa bile, yerinde eski bir kilisenin bulunması muhtemeldir.Yapı 12'nci yüzyıl Artuklu Dönemi mimarisinin temel özelliklerini yansıtır. Erken dönemde özellikle güneydoğuda meydana çıkan, mihrap önü kubbeli enine gelişen Mosque plan ve formunun çok önemli bir örneğidir. Yapının malzemesi düzgün kesme taştır. Grand Mosque’nin kubbesi dıştan yivleme tekniğiyle yapılmıştır. İlk olarak bu binada kullanılmış ve sonraları Mardin’de gelenek halini almıştır ki bazı geç dönem Artuklu yapılarında karakteristiktir. Mosquenin dikdörtgen avlusu kuzeyinde kalır. Avlunun güneyinde mihrap duvarına paralel, beşik tonozlu üç neften oluşan, mihrap duvarına yakın iki nefin kubbe ile kesildiği, enine gelişmiş, mihrap önü kubbeli bir şema görülür. Bu şema, aynı zamanda, çevredeki birçok yapı tarafından taklit edilmiş bir modeldir.

Afyonkarahisar Castle

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The Karahisar Castle (Karahisar Kalesi) which is located in a protected area within the city centre, is the place identified with the city for its closely associated with the formation of the name of Afyonkarahisar. The history of the castle built on a volcanic mountain dates back to 1350 BCE. The Karahisar Castle was used for storing the state treasury during the Ottoman times. The castle is 226 meters high with a gorgeous view. At the summit of the castle, traces of the Phrygians have been encountered, and there are many worship places dedicated to the Mother Goddess Kybele and 4 large cisterns. During the period of Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat, the walls were repaired, and a small mosque and a palace were built next to the castle. Also a must-see is the Maiden Tower, located somewhat higher next to the castle. The Karahisar Castle has become a wishing place for those who want to marry, have children etc. Those who want to get married shout down from the Maiden Tower, saying "O my faith, my faith, O my golden throne, it is my time to get married". Sometimes "It is time to have a child " wishes rise from the castle. There is a rumour among the locals that those who go to the Karahisar Castle will stay in Afyonkarahisar for seven years.

Uzun Bazaar

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Indulge in an immersive journey of culture, heritage, and unrivaled shopping experience at the Uzun Bazaar located in Bursa, Türkiye. Here, you find yourself immersed in a tapestry of history and vibrant life imprinted through its extensive array of stores. As its name suggests, Uzun Bazaar —or the long bazaar— is one of the longest markets in Türkiye, offering an endless array of captivating finds and treasures to appease the adventurer in you. At every corner of Uzun Bazaar, you'll discover an intricate fusion of the old and the new. Marvel at the charming antiquities that hold centuries-old stories from Türkiye's rich history, while relishing the sight of modern local crafts colorful ceramics, carpets, and textiles each reflecting Türkiye's timeless artistry. Feel your senses awaken as the aroma of exotic spices wafts from the spice shops, luring you to explore an array of flavorful ingredients used in Türkiye's renowned cuisine. Visiting Uzun Bazaar is not just about shopping, but it's also a journey into the heart of Bursa. The Bazaar is strategically nestled amidst historic sites offering tourists an opportunity to experience Uzun Bazaar's pulsating energy while immersing themselves in the cultural landscape of Türkiye. Engage in friendly haggling, savor mouthwatering Turkish delicacies, or simply enjoy the vibrant life of Bursa's inhabitants as they go about their day. This must-visit destination welcomes everyone who desires an authentic Türkiye experience, the Uzun Bazaar is undoubtedly a compelling window into Türkiye's irresistible charm and captivating spirit. Explore Uzun Bazaar - where history, culture, and commerce converge in a mesmerizing dance. Unfold the magic of Bursa, Uncover the wealth of Türkiye.

Afyonkarahisar Museum

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Afyonkarahisar Museum, originally established in 1931 as a Museum Officer in Taş Madrasa, was transformed into a Museum Directorate in 1933. The current museum building, opened in 1971, features a rich collection from various periods including the Chalcolithic, Bronze, Hittite, Phrygian, Lydian, Roman, and Eastern Roman eras, displayed in nine interconnected halls. The museum provides a chronological journey through history, showcasing artifacts such as sculptures, coins, and architectural pieces, giving insight into local life, trade, and beliefs. It also highlights the significance of marble in the region. A section is dedicated to the War of Independence, and the garden features artifacts from multiple historical periods.

Millet Bath

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Experience the majesty of Türkiye in Afyonkarahisar, home to the historically sacred Millet Bath. Your journey into deep-seated Ottoman traditions starts at the foot of this architectural masterpiece. Step inside, and the serenity of time past will permeate your senses. Millet Bath (Millet Hamamı) is no ordinary bathhouse. This substantial part of rich Turkish culture has been carefully preserved throughout centuries. As you wander through the adorned marble interiors, you'll appreciate the beautiful Ottoman influenced designs, perfectly merged with the robust and impressive Seljuq architecture.

Sultan Divani Mevlevi Lodge

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Said Mevlevihane from 16th century of Hz. Sultan Dîvânî, one of the seventh-generation grandchildren of Mevlana, became a very important centre in Mevlevi order.

Historic Mansions

Kilis also has many historical mansions lining its narrow streets. A stroll through these picturesque streets takes the visitor on a journey through time. The most important of the mansions are the Akıncı Mansion (Akıncı Konağı), Çağlasyan Mansion (Çağlasyan Konağı), Neşet Efendi Mansion (Neşet Efendi Konağı), the Former Government House (Eski Hükumet Binası), Canbolad Pasha Mansion (Canbolad Paşa Konağı), Abidin Ağa Mansion (Abidin Ağa Konağı(, Ahmed Bey Mansion (Ahmed Bey Konağı), and Süpürgeci Mansion (Süpürgeci Konağı).

Victory Museum

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The Victory Museum (Zafer Müzesi) is located in the city centre opposite the Victory Monument and the Afyonkarahisar Castle. It is a two-storey building, built by Saitoğlu Mehmet Sait Efendi in 1915-1920, before the founding of Republic, and has neo-classical features in general. It is also significant, as it was the place where the “Battle of Dumlupınar”, or known as the “Field Battle of the Commander-in-Chief (Başkomutanlık Meydan Muharebesi) was planned and ordered. The museum provides information about the “Field Battle of the Commander-in-Chief”, and exhibits rooms in memory of Commander-in-Chief Mustafa Kemal Pasha, Western Front Commander İsmet İnönü Pasha, Chief of General Staff Fevzi Çakmak Pasha, and Western Front Operations Branch Director Tevfik Bıyıkoğlu.

Victory Square

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Immerse yourself in the enriched history and unique charm of Afyonkarahisar, in the heart of Türkiye, as you set foot in the iconic Victory Square, a symbol of patriotism and pride. Named 'Zafer Meydanı' in Turkish, this Square echoes the inspiring tales of Turkish heroism and renews the spirit of unity among locals and visitors alike. Housing the colossal Victory Monument, it stands as a testimony to the indomitable spirit of the Turkish fighters who brave-heartedly fought for independence. As the sun sets and the square lights up, it is transformed into a stunning spectacle that offers a tantalizing visual treat.

Afyonkarahisar İsmail Kumartaşlı Egg & Arts Centre

Türkiye's first Egg-Arts-Centre displays eggs from different species of animals, as well as egg-art works. The "Afyonkarahisar İsmail Kumartaşlı Eggs and Arts Centre" has its showrooms in the "Afyonkarahisar Hattat Ahmet Karahisari Center for Culture and Arts", and is the world's 6th and Türkiye's first egg art museum. The Centre is designed as a museum and as a sectoral promotion centre. Within the frame of eggs and egg art, the centre displays eggs from 240 different species produced by 37 producers in 22 cities of Türkiye. You will also find around 100 artistically processed real egg samples of many wild animals, including sharks, loggerhead sea turtle, snakes, and locusts. Additionally, records and documents obtained from the Turkish Poultry and Egg Production Sector. All the eggs exhibited here were taken from dead embryos and not from the living.

Alimoğlu Music Centre

İbrahim Alimoğlu Music Centre, one of the largest music museums in the country, operates under the Afyonkarahisar University State Conservatory. Various types of instruments, radios, gramophones, and turntables with a history spanning hundreds of years, as well as antique works and personal items of artists who have made significant contributions to Turkish culture, are exhibited here.

İstiklal Visitors Center

Located in Afyonkarahisar, the Independence Promotion Center was established to commemorate the Great Offensive and the Battle of the Commander-in-Chief, key turning points in the Turkish War of Independence. Situated on the Afyon-Izmir road within the 26 August Nature Park, the center brings the daily movements of the battle to life through three-dimensional models and projection animations. Additionally, it features exhibitions enriched with written and visual materials. A popular destination during Victory Week events, the center aims to immerse visitors in the spirit of the War of Independence.