ANTALYA Saint Ni cholas Museum Myra Ancient City Perge A Timeless Blend of History, Nature, and Luxury Antalya, nestled on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is a city that harmoniously blends its rich historical heritage with the breathtaking beauty of the Turkish Riviera . Founded in 158 BCE by King Attalus II of Pergamon, the city was originally named “Attaleia” and has served as a cultural and trade hub under various empires, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Its strategic location made it a flourishing port city throughout antiquity and the Middle Ages. Antalya’s old town, Kaleiçi , is a living museum. Visitors can wander through its narrow cobblestone streets lined with Ottoman-era mansions, explore the Hadrian’s Gate —an ancient Roman triumphal arch—or admire the elegant Yivli Minaret , a landmark from the Seljuk era. Beyond the city, the region is dotted with significant archaeological sites such as Aspendos , renowned for its perfectly preserved Roman theater; Perge , a stunning ancient city with well-preserved ruins; and Termessos , a mountaintop city that offers breathtaking views alongside its historical intrigue. Antalya also shines with its natural wonders. The Düden Waterfalls , cascading into the sea, offer a picturesque retreat, while Köprülü Canyon provides an adventure-filled escape for rafting and hiking enthusiasts. The region’s beaches, including Lara Beach and Konyaaltı Beach , are famed for their pristine sands and turquoise waters, making Antalya a top destination for sun-seekers. Tourism in Antalya is bolstered by its world-class resorts and vibrant cultural offerings, including the annual Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival . The city’s modern infrastructure, such as its international airport and luxury marinas, makes it a gateway to the Turquoise Coast . With its seamless blend of historical treasures, stunning landscapes, and luxurious amenities, Antalya is a dream destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in culture, nature, and relaxation. Saint Nicholas: The Legendary Figure of Antalya’s Demre Saint Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus or Noel Baba , was a 4th-century Christian bishop who lived in the town of Demre (ancient Myra) , located in present-day Antalya, Turkey. Renowned for his compassion, generosity, and miracles, he became a legendary figure in both Christian and secular traditions. Born around 270 CE in Patara, Saint Nicholas dedicated his life to helping the poor, children, and sailors. His most famous story involves secretly providing dowries for three poor sisters, saving them from hardship, which became the origin of the modern gift-giving tradition associated with Santa Claus. He was also known for calming storms at sea and protecting sailors, earning him the title Patron Saint of Mariners . Saint Nicholas’ tomb is located in Demre , where the Church of St. Nicholas stands as a pilgrimage site for visitors from around the world. His legacy spread across Europe, where his image evolved into the modern-day Santa Claus, blending Turkish history with global folklore. Today, Demre remains an important cultural and historical destination, drawing tourists who want to explore the origins of the beloved figure known around the world as the bringer of joy and generosity.

The Eternal City Where East Meets West Istanbul, straddling two continents—Europe and Asia—is a city that has stood at the crossroads of history, culture, and trade for over 2,500 years. Originally founded around 660 BCE as Byzantium , the city grew into a significant trade hub due to its strategic location on the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. In 330 CE, Emperor Constantine the Great renamed the city Constantinople and declared it the capital of the Roman Empire. Under Byzantine rule, Constantinople became a center of Christianity, housing architectural marvels like the Hagia Sophia , originally built as a cathedral in 537 CE. The city was renowned for its wealth, grandeur, and influence, standing as a beacon of the Byzantine Empire until it fell to the Ottoman Turks in 1453. The Ottomans, led by Sultan Mehmed II, transformed Constantinople into Istanbul , the heart of their empire and a center of Islamic culture. Iconic landmarks from this era include the Topkapi Palace , the administrative center of the empire, the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), famous for its stunning blue tiles, and the Grand Bazaar , one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Istanbul thrived as a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia shaping its identity. Modern Istanbul retains this rich historical legacy while embracing its role as Turkey’s cultural and economic capital. Its unique geography allows visitors to explore the contrasts of the city: the bustling European side with landmarks like Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue , and the more traditional Asian side, known for its charming neighborhoods like Kadıköy and Üsküdar . Istanbul is a tourist paradise, offering something for everyone. Visitors can: • Explore Historic Sites : The Hagia Sophia, now a mosque and museum; the Basilica Cistern; and the Chora Church with its stunning mosaics. • Cruise the Bosphorus : Enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline, historic mansions, and iconic bridges connecting two continents. • Shop and Savor : Experience the vibrant Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar or enjoy Turkish delights and authentic cuisine at traditional restaurants. • Discover Modern Attractions : Contemporary museums like Istanbul Modern , the luxurious Galataport , and vibrant nightlife in neighborhoods like Beyoğlu . Istanbul’s annual festivals, such as the Istanbul Biennial , Film Festival , and Tulip Festival , add to its cultural vibrancy. The city is also a culinary haven, offering everything from street food favorites like simit and döner to upscale dining experiences. Why Visit Istanbul? Istanbul is a city like no other, where ancient history and modernity coexist seamlessly. Whether walking through its historic streets, admiring breathtaking architecture, or enjoying its vibrant arts and dining scene, Istanbul offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of a city that has shaped and been shaped by civilizations across millennia.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis , located in southwestern Turkey, form a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site, blending natural wonders with ancient history. Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, is renowned for its stunning white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters flowing down the hillside for thousands of years. These thermal waters, believed to have healing properties, have been a draw for visitors since ancient times. Above the travertines lies the ancient city of Hierapolis , founded in the 2nd century BCE by the Attalid kings of Pergamon. It became a significant Greco-Roman city, thriving as a center of culture, religion, and healing due to its proximity to the hot springs. Hierapolis was known for its grand architecture, including a well-preserved theater , necropolis , and Temple of Apollo . The Plutonium , a cave emitting toxic gases, was regarded as a sacred site connected to the underworld. During the Byzantine era, Hierapolis became an important Christian center, believed to be the burial site of St. Philip, one of Christ’s apostles. The city was eventually abandoned after a series of earthquakes but left behind remarkable ruins. Today, Pamukkale and Hierapolis attract millions of visitors who marvel at the stunning travertines and explore the ancient city’s rich history, making it one of Turkey’s most iconic destinations.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) is a highly effective and well-established weight-loss surgery. The procedure involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting a portion of the small intestine to this pouch. This reduces food intake and calorie absorption, resulting in significant and sustainable weight loss.

Sleeve gastrectomy is a minimally invasive weight-loss surgery designed to help individuals achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. During the procedure, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. This reduces hunger hormones, limits food intake, and supports sustainable weight loss.

The SASI (Single Anastomosis Sleeve Ileal Bypass) procedure is an innovative metabolic surgery that combines the benefits of sleeve gastrectomy and intestinal bypass. Designed to address obesity and related metabolic conditions, this minimally invasive procedure helps patients achieve significant weight loss and improved health by reducing stomach size and rerouting food flow to limit calorie absorption.

Cappadocia, located in central Turkey, is a region renowned for its unique natural landscapes, including fairy chimneys, rock formations, and underground cities. Its history spans thousands of years, marked by the rise and fall of civilizations, making it a fascinating cultural and historical hub.   The region’s history dates back to the Bronze Age , with the Hittites establishing early settlements. Cappadocia’s location made it a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange between major empires such as the Assyrians, Persians, and Greeks. It was part of the Persian Empire during the Achaemenid period, and later came under the influence of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BCE.   Under Roman rule in the 1st century BCE, Cappadocia became a Roman province, thriving as a center of commerce and culture. It was during the Byzantine era that Cappadocia gained prominence as a religious and monastic hub. Early Christians, fleeing Roman persecution, sought refuge in its caves and underground cities, carving churches, monasteries, and homes directly into the soft volcanic rock. Iconic sites like the Göreme Open-Air Museum showcase exquisite frescoes from this period.   In the medieval period, Cappadocia came under the rule of the Seljuk Turks and later the Ottoman Empire. The region retained its cultural diversity, blending Christian and Islamic influences. The underground cities, such as Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı , served as hiding places during times of invasion or conflict.   Today, Cappadocia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist destination, celebrated for its rich history, unique geology, and breathtaking hot air balloon rides over its surreal landscapes.

Ephesus, located in modern-day Turkey, was an ancient Greek city renowned for its cultural, religious, and commercial significance. Founded around the 10th century BCE by Ionian colonists, it thrived due to its strategic location near the Aegean Sea. Ephesus is perhaps most famous for the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, attracting pilgrims from across the ancient world.   The city flourished under the rule of the Lydians and later the Persians until it was liberated by Alexander the Great in 334 BCE. During the Hellenistic period, it became a center of Greek culture, art, and learning. In 133 BCE, Ephesus became part of the Roman Republic, reaching its peak during the Roman Empire. Under Roman rule, the city became one of the largest in the empire, with monumental structures like the Library of Celsus, the Great Theater, and extensive aqueducts.   Ephesus was also significant in early Christianity. It is mentioned in the Bible as one of the Seven Churches of Asia, and the Apostle Paul spent time preaching there. Tradition holds that the Virgin Mary spent her final years near the city, and John the Apostle is said to have written his Gospel there.   The decline of Ephesus began in the 3rd century CE due to invasions, earthquakes, and the silting of its harbor, which diminished its role as a trading hub. By the 15th century, the city was abandoned, leaving behind its ruins, which are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist destination.

Göbeklitepe, located near Şanlıurfa in southeastern Turkey, is one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world, often referred to as the “world’s first temple.” Dating back to around 9600 BCE, it is considered the earliest known example of monumental architecture, predating Stonehenge by over 6,000 years and the pyramids of Egypt by 7,000 years. It has reshaped our understanding of human history and the origins of civilization.   Discovered in 1963 and extensively excavated since the 1990s, Göbeklitepe consists of massive stone pillars arranged in circular enclosures. These pillars, some standing over 5 meters tall and weighing up to 20 tons, are adorned with intricate carvings of animals such as lions, snakes, vultures, and wild boars, along with abstract symbols. The carvings suggest the site held deep spiritual or ritualistic significance.   Göbeklitepe challenges the traditional narrative that agriculture and permanent settlements preceded complex religious or social structures. The site appears to have been built by hunter-gatherers before the advent of farming, indicating that communal effort and religious activity may have played a key role in the transition to settled life.   The purpose of Göbeklitepe remains a mystery, but it is believed to have been a ceremonial or spiritual site rather than a settlement. Over time, the enclosures were deliberately buried, preserving them for millennia. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018, and its discovery has revolutionized our understanding of prehistoric societies.

Mini Gastric Bypass (MGB) is a minimally invasive weight-loss surgery that combines restrictive and malabsorptive techniques to help patients achieve significant, long-term weight loss. During the procedure, a smaller stomach pouch is created, and a portion of the small intestine is bypassed, leading to reduced calorie absorption and appetite control.