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From Ancient Cities to Serene Lakes: A Journey Through History and Nature in Isparta

Eğirdir Lake

Eğirdir Lake's image
Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Eğirdir Lake, nestled in the heart of Isparta, Türkiye. This extraordinary gem holds an enticing blend of captivating natural allure and intriguing cultural history. Eğirdir Lake, its tranquil waters reflecting the turquoise sky above, is the refreshing retreat you've been yearning for. Take a stroll around its banks or board a traditional fishing boat and lose yourself in the scenic splendor of the lake and the surrounding vistas of blooming orchards and towering mountain peaks. Eğirdir Lake is the fourth largest lake in Türkiye and has been a keenly preserved asset for sustainable eco-tourism. It serves as a serene haven for varied species of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Experience the thrill of spotting unusual bird species take flight as the sun sets, casting an ethereal glow on the waters. Isparta's beloved asset doesn't just limit itself to natural beauty; it's a gateway to a rich cultural history. Explore the historical island of Nis connected by a causeway, where you will find traditional stone houses, enchanting gardens, and stone-paved streets that speak volumes of its Eastern Roman era past. Envelop yourself in the natural grandeur and vibrant history of Türkiye with a visit to Eğirdir Lake. Its stunning water landscapes, biodiversity, and historical significance make it truly a must-visit asset. Come and immerse yourself in the charming hospitality of Isparta, Türkiye and let Eğirdir Lake's beauty inspire you.

Hızır Bey Mosque

Hızır Bey Mosque's image
Discover the charm of Türkiye's vibrant cultural and religious heritage with a visit to Hızır Bey Mosque in Kırklareli. Tucked away within the captivating Kırklareli, this beacon of tranquility has been standing tall since the 14th century. The mosque is named after Hızır Bey, a key figure in Kırklareli's history who sought, through his architectural vision, to build an embodiment of spirituality and serenity amidst a bustling city backdrop. Hızır Bey Mosque's beauty is not just limited to its sturdy exterior and enchanting dome; step inside to witness the brilliance of classical Ottoman design. The beautifully engraved mihrab, the carved wooden minbar, and the sweepingly high ceilings hold whispers of centuries past, offering a thoroughfare into Türkiye’s rich religious tradition and architectural prowess. Take time to luxuriate in the peace this sacred house of worship has to offer. As you walk through its ancient halls, let the unique mixture of old and new enthrall you. Whether you're keen on history, architecture, or simply wishing to experience authentic Türkiye life, Hızır Bey Mosque encapsulates it all. We present you with an opportunity to travel back in time and immerse yourself in the compelling legacy of Hızır Bey Mosque. Make sure to add this mosque to your tour list to ensure a well-rounded understanding of Türkiye’s past and its ever-pervasive influence on the present. Come, let Kırklareli reveal its secrets to you.

Dündarbey Madrasa

Dündarbey Madrasa's image
Dündarbey Madrasa (Dündarbey Medresesi) was built as an inn in 1237 during the reign of Seljuk Sultan Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev II. It was turned into a madrasa by Hamidoğlu Dündar Bey in 1301. The madrasa has two floors with a central courtyard; the courtyard contains 30 rooms. The large stone door at the madrasa’s entrance is adorned with Seljuk-style carvings in geometric shapes.

Can Island

Can Island (Can Ada) is a picturesque islet of 7,000 square meters, located between Eğirdir and Yeşil Island. With no urban development, it serves as a beautiful site for camping and caravan tourism, drawing significant interest from locals due to its natural beauty and designation as a picnic area. Can Island was gifted to Atatürk by a Municipal Council Decision dated February 1, 1933, during his visit to Eğirdir.

Yeşil Island

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Yeşil Island (Yeşil Ada), 1.5 km from the Eğirdir city centre, preserves its authenticity with stone-foundation wooden houses, narrow streets, and small fishermen’s shelters on an area of nine hectares. Yeşil Island, formerly known as NIS among local residents, draws attention with a plethora of home boarding accommodations and fish restaurants. The Hagia Stefanos Church, considered sacred by Christians, is also located on the island.

Kovada Lake National Park

Kovada Lake National Park's image
Kovada Lake National Park (Kovada Gölü Milli Parkı), located 29 km south of the Eğirdir district, offers a diversity of plants and animals, as well as areas suitable for hiking, viewing, bird-watching and climbing. In addition to the unique richness of flora and fauna, there are also opportunities for outdoor recreation and entertainment activities.

Yazılı Canyon Nature Park

Yazılı Canyon Nature Park's image
The nature park, 10 km from the Sütçüler district, has an extensive infrastructure in terms of daily sports activities as well as historical features. It is known that Saint Paul passed through this canyon on his way to Pisidia Antiokheia from Perge. The canyon, where the historical “King’s Road” passes through, is of historical importance with its temple and rock inscriptions. It is possible to see the lines of Epictetus’s “A Poem on Free Man”, translated into Turkish and English, in the canyon, which takes its name from the damaged inscription on the right side of the second bridge. Yazılı Canyon Nature Park (Yazılı Kanyon Tabiat Parkı) features wild animals and a wide variety of tree and plant species as well as areas reserved for hiking routes and rock climbing.

Adada Ancient City

The name of the Adada Ancient City (Adada Antik Kenti), located in the district of Sütçüler, 89 km from Isparta, is first mentioned in an inscription from a treaty made with the city of Termessos, dating from the BCE 2nd century. It is also known that mercenaries from Adadalı served in the armies of the Hellenistic kings. The city experienced its brightest days under the Roman Empire. The ruins of temples, a theatre, official buildings, a church and other structures still stand in the city. The Temple of Trajan is among the most well-known of the temples in the Pisidia Region. The temple of Emperors and Zeus Megistos-Serapis indicates the existence of the Zeus Megistos and Serapis cults in the city. The building dates from the late 2nd and early 3rd centuries. Another important structure in the city is an open-air meeting venue with 20-tiered seating rows.