Located in western Asia and south-eastern Europe, Turkey is unique from the word go. It belongs to two continents, part of both Europe and Asia. It overflows with captivating culture and mesmerising history. A place full of enchantment and excitement, Turkey boasts many unusual and superb sights. Here are 8 unusual places to visit in Turkey that visitors will find make this destination one of a kind.
Pamukkale
Those who don’t believe in fairytales clearly haven’t visited Pamukkale. Known as the ‘Cotton Castle’ in Turkish, this location looks like it is hand-picked straight from a picture book. With solidified pools of calcium water dotted about and the thermal springs of Cal Mountain creating the ‘sacred pool’, this site is unlike any other. Visitors will feel like they are entering into a dream world upon visiting Pamukkale, and leaving will be very difficult indeed.
Cappadocia
Located in central Anatolia, Cappadocia offers indescribable landscapes. Visitors will be entranced by the unusual, chimney-shaped, rock formations that have been formed as a result of volcanic eruptions. A strange scene, these rock formations are a unique sight to lay eyes upon. Past eras have also left many underground cities in this area, making Cappadocia a world of discovery. An intriguing destination to explore, visitors can stay in one of the many unusual cave hotels whilst visiting this captivating city.
Library of Celsus
This ancient, Roman building in Ephesus has been converted into a one of a kind library. Two storeys high, the library of Celsus is definitely not the norm! With natural sun light streaming in through these ancient ruins, visitors can read in a location unlike any other. Whoever said reading was boring certainly hasn’t visited this dazzling site.
Hagia Sophia
The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is no ordinary museum. In 1935 this building, which was originally a mosque, was transformed into a museum. However its statue did not change, a beautiful piece of architecture, this museum is packed with colour and life. Visitors can take a look at the mosaics and galleries, which showcase Turkey’s culture, history and heritage.
Sumela Monastery
Located in north-east Turkey, this monastery is definitely an unusual places to visit in Turkey. Why? Because it is situated in the hollow of a gigantic cliff face which dangles a frightening distance above the ground. It is found at an incredible altitude of 1,200 meters and founded by a Greek monk known as Barnabas. This monastery is a mind-blowing feat of architecture and physics.
Bodrum Castle
An intriguing museum, Bodrum castle has the shape and statue of a royal palace. Also called the ‘Castle of St. Peter’, this museum is one of the area’s most fascinating sights. Specialising in underwater archaeology, it’s a great place to visit for those who love something a little different.
Bergama
Bergama is also known as the ancient city of Pergamon. With many historic monuments dotted around the city and lots of ancient ruins, it offers a magical glimpse into the past. The city is also celebrated for its mention in the Book of Revelation, as one of the 7 churches of Asia.
Mount Nemrut
This site carries the heart of Turkish history. Home to the tomb of Kind Antiochus Theos of Kommangene, it is a royal and majestic place to visit. Visitors can look upon the unusual statue heads which surround the tomb which rise an extraordinary eight metres in height. A celebrated world heritage site, Mount Nemut is a place like no other.
Those with a love for the unusual and unique will be at home in Turkey. From visiting the fairytale world of Pamukkale to seeing the strange sights of Mount Nemrut, tourists will feel like they have entered into a parallel universe. With so much to see, the unusual places to visit in Turkey should be high on everyone’s wish list.
A guest post by Maria Hubbard, who writes for private villa rental company Owners Direct.
