Visit Gaziantep

Gaziantep, which many know as just Antep, is located in the southeastern portion of Turkey and is one of the oldest cities in the world that is still currently inhabited. The founding of this city goes back all the way to the Hittites and their empire was at its peak around the 14^th century BC.

The central landmark of the city, the Gaziantep Fortress and Ravanda citadel, where actually restored by the Byzantines in the 6^th century. This city has seen a number of different conquests, but today is one of the world’s most unique places of interest. If you’re ready to explore the best of humanity from ancient times to today, then Gaziantep is the place you’ll want to be. Here’s a sampling of the best that this community has to offer.

The Ancient City of Zeugma Is Absolutely Beautiful

Established at the easiest fording point on the Euphrates, you’ll find Zeugma in the boundary of Belkis. It’s strategic location made it an essential outpost for every ruling party of the city and it was even the headquarters of one of the most important Roman legions in the area. Inside the city you’ll find a number of ancient floor mosaics and wall paintings that will give you a glimpse of what life here was like so many years ago.

You’ll also want to spend some time exploring the Citadel in the center of Gaziantep if this is your first visit. No one really knows when or why the fortress was initially built, but some architectural evidence suggests that it was initially constructed during the Bronze Age.

The list of mosques that were built throughout the centuries is too numerous to list, but many of them deserve a visit in their own right. Keep in mind religious restrictions that may be in place before approaching them to limit any perception of disrespect.

Get Outside and Enjoy the Zoo!

The Gaziantep Zoo is one of the largest and best kept zoos in all of turkey. There’s a full aquarium on the grounds and a lot of time and effort went into the design of the bird pavilion. There is a picnic grounds on site and you can pick up something to eat if need be at the cafeteria that is open with the zoo daily.

After a visit to the zoo, nothing speaks of a visit to Gaziantep like some time at the Zincirli Bedesten. This covered marketplace dates back to Ottoman times, having been built in 1781. The coppersmith trade has existed for over 5 centuries in this community as well, but you’ll need to visit the Bakicilar to get the best glimpses of this trade for your shopping needs.

Are you ready to explore Gaziantep today? This ancient city might be rich in historical opportunities, but it also fuses modern culture together wonderfully with the past. Include these items with your own plans and you’re certain to enjoy everything that this community has to offer!