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Ephesus
One of Turkey's many unmissable sights, Ephesus is one of the largest
and best-preserved ancient cities around the Mediterranean, where Saint
Paul lived and proselytized from 51-53AD.
Yerebatan Saray, Istanbul
The "Sunken Palace" or Yerebatan Saray is a fifth-century cistern in
Istanbul, brought to public attention by a Frenchman who saw locals pull
fish from gaps in the pavement. You can now wander through its forest of
underground columns, two of which are supported by beautiful marble
Medusa heads.
Mezes
The core of Turkish cuisine, mezes are a great option for vegetarians -
they are a bewildering array of delicious appetizers, including cold,
baked aubergine with onion and tomato (imam bayildi), and stuffed
vegetables (dolma).
Hamams
Nearly every Turkish town has a hamam, or Turkish bath, where you can
get a steamy bath, vigorous massage, or a kese session (in which layers
of dead skin are sloughed away with an abrasive glove). Try the four-hundred-year-old
Cemberlitas Hammam in Istanbul.
Cappadocia
The great expanses of eroded volcanic rock at Cappadocia comprise an
unforgettably dramatic and strange landscape. The rocks and valleys of "fairy
chimneys" conceal ancient churches and dwellings, some still in use.
Ankara
The modern, European-style city of Ankara houses the prestigious Museum
of Anatolian Civilizations, which chronicles Anatolian culture from the
Late Stone Age to the Classical era.
Gelibolu Peninsula
The Gelibolu peninsula, commonly known as Gallipoli, is scattered with
World War I battlefields and cemeteries - grim memorials to the
harebrained plan to land Allied troops (many from Australia and New
Zealand) here in April 1915.
Bodrum
The Aegean town of Bodrum, with its white-washed houses and sub-tropical
gardens, is an enjoyable resort, complete with a medieval castle, myriad
boat trips and a lively nightlife.
Konya
Home of the mystic who founded the Mevlevi or "Whirling Dervish" sect,
Konya is the centre of Sufic mystical practice and teaching. The
Whirling Dervishes make a spectacular public appearance at the Mevlâna
Festival in December.
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