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A Conversation with Nevzat Bayhan

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A Conversation with Nevzat Bayhan

Q: Could you discuss Kultur Company’s endeavors?

Nevzat Bayhan: Kultur Company engages in both cultural activities and tourism-related initiatives. Notably, Miniaturk and Yerebatan Cistern are two prominent projects. We explore museums abroad, conceive projects, and actively promote Turkey and Istanbul at international fairs. Additionally, our publishing efforts, including the Istanbul Kitapgisi (Library) in Beyoglu, serve tourism and aim to expand with affiliated branches for wider accessibility. Our Mecidiyekoy Culture Center offers education to individuals who couldn’t pursue formal training in theater, cinema, or television, culminating in a two-year certificate program. We also host children’s chorus and cartoon courses at the center Journey Through Culture at Miniaturk.

Q: Can you share details about the “Culture Valley” project?

N. Bayhan: Istanbul is not just the cultural capital of Europe but the entire world, and we aim to enhance its cultural offerings. The “Culture Valley” project focuses on enriching cultural spaces near the Golden Horn with features like ground chess, child labyrinths, and dancing waters set to music. The soon-to-be-completed Sutluce Congress Center will be one of the world’s largest, with a proposed cable lift providing easy access to Pierre Loti Istanbul Tour Guide. This enables congress participants to enjoy a tea break at Pierre Loti, explore Eyi, and return to the center on Sultan boats during meal breaks. This seamless experience minimizes travel time and optimizes the cultural and dining opportunities. Our ongoing efforts include projects like “Istanbul in the Time Tunnel” and “Planetarium,” designed to provide rapid information access in captivating venues.

Discovering Brusa

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Discovering Brusa

A Historic Ottoman Capital

A visit to Brusa, the once vibrant capital of the Ottoman Empire, requires a minimum of three days, including a full day to explore the city. Travelers need a Teskereh (refer to p. 32). The steamers connecting Constantinople and Mudania, Brusa’s port, vary in comfort, with some like the Bengazi and Adranit providing a better experience on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays (returning on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays). However, passengers should bring their own provisions for the journey.

The departure time of the steamers is not fixed but usually falls between 8:30 AM and 10:30 PM. Through return tickets to Brusa are available through Messrs. Thos. Cook and Sons, 12 Bue Kabristan, Pera Treasures of Brusa.

The journey from Constantinople to Mudania takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours on the screw steamers. From Mudania, a 1.75-hour train ride connects travelers to Brusa. Trains align with steamer arrivals and departures. An alternative travel plan is to go by train one way and return by carriage (distance: 2 to 2.5 hours). Steamers conveniently dock alongside the wharf, allowing passengers direct access to the train.

Mudania, situated on the site of ancient Ajpamea, is a modest village serving as Brusa’s port. The terrain between the sea-shore and Brusa is hilly and fertile, and both road and railway navigate a zigzag course to the hill’s top, approximately 900 feet above sea level. From this vantage point, passengers can enjoy a splendid view of Mount Olympus and Brusa.

Founded in 185 B.C. by Bithynian king Prusias with the assistance of Hannibal, Brusa, known as ancient Prusa, has a rich history Private Tours Balkan. It faced sieges and takeovers during the reign of Nicomedes III., experiencing both Mithradates’ assaults and Roman interventions. Eventually, it became the Roman province’s administrative center. The city declined in significance during the Empire and reemerged in 947 A.D. when it fell to the Arabs led by Seif-ed-Deblet, a Hamadan prince, before returning to Greek control.

Treasures of Brusa

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Treasures of Brusa

Mosques, Tombs, and Citadel

Ulu Jami (The Big Mosque)

Ulu Jami, also known as The Big Mosque, stands as a testament to the contributions of three successive sultans—Murad I, Bayazid I, and Muhammad I. The pulpit, crafted by an Egyptian sculptor, rivals that of the Sinope mosque. Although the mosque’s current appearance is modern, its historical significance is undeniable. Admission for a party of up to three people costs 5 piastres (10d.).

Teshil Jami (The Green Mosque)

Built in 1418 by Muhammad I A Glimpse into Ottoman History, The Green Mosque is a prominent ornament in Brusa. Notable for its meticulous design, elegant structure, and exquisite marble-work, the mosque’s gate is a striking feature, adorned with the first chapter of the Koran and intricate floral designs. The elaborate inscription took three years to complete, costing Muhammad I 4000 ducats. The mosque derives its name from the abundance of green Persian tiles, particularly noteworthy in the north gallery, chambers below, entrance passage, and the entire Mihrab. Admission for a party of up to three people is 5 piastres.

The Green Tomb

Opposite The Green Mosque, The Green Tomb houses the cenotaph of founder Muhammad I and four others, adorned with exquisite green and blue tiles. The Mihrab mirrors the mosque, featuring delicate green and blue tiles and supported by short columns. Two manuscript Korans in gold ink add to the mausoleum’s significance. Entrance fee: 5 piastres per party.

The Citadel

Perched on a steep hill at the city’s center, the Citadel, once a formidable fortress, still displays remnants of ancient gates and Theodore Lascaris’ walls Tailor-Made Bulgaria Tours. Previously housing Sultan Murad I’s palace, now lost to time, the tower on the esplanade serves as a fire watchtower. The two mausoleums on the esplanade belong to Sultan Osman I and Orkhan I. The present mausoleum is a modern reconstruction after the original succumbed to fire in 1801. The Osmanieh Grand Cordon ribbon, affixed by Sultan Aziz in 1860, adorns the railing around Osman I’s tomb. Admission: 5 piastres per party.

A Glimpse into Ottoman History

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A Glimpse into Ottoman History

Towards the end of the eleventh century, Brusa came under the control of the Seljuk Turks. However, they abandoned the city following the Crusaders’ capture of Nicsea in 1097 A.D. During Theodore Lascaris’s retreat to Brusa after the Latin capture of Constantinople, the town faced an unsuccessful siege in 1204 A.D. by around 100 French forces led by Pierre de Bracheux and Payen d’Orleans. In 1326, the Turks, under Orkhan I., successfully took Brusa after a ten-year siege, establishing it as the capital of their Empire. Brusa thrived under Turkish rule, attracting poets, tile-makers, and dervishes from various parts of Asia. Many churches and monasteries were transformed into mosques and mausoleums, while new charitable institutions, public buildings, and mosques were constructed. Notably, Brusa was where the formidable Janissaries were first organized during Osman’s reign.

Modern Brusa is the principal town in the Hudavendighiar province, governed by a Yali (Governor-General). The population is approximately 70,000, with about 35,000 Muslims Discovering Brusa, the rest being Christians, including some 2,000 Jews. The European community in Brusa comprises around 500 individuals, mostly French and Italians. The town boasts excellent roads in the surroundings, and most streets are reasonably well-paved and maintained. Carriages are available for hire at 50 piastres (8s. 4d.) per day.

Hotels

Hotel d’Anatolie

Telegraphing for rooms during the season is advisable. Board costs 12 fr. per day, inclusive of local wine.

Hotel Belle Vue.

To make the most of the sights in and around Brusa, it is recommended to start the day between 8 and 9 A.M. Begin by driving to Ulu Jami, then to Yeshil Jami (Green Mosque), followed by a visit to Bunar-Bachi, a valley adorned with plane-trees and weeping willows, with a spring sourced from Mount Olympus. Return through the ancient walls of Lascaris to the citadel, offering a panoramic view of the city. Explore the tombs of Sultan Osman and Orkhan within the citadel. On the return journey, consider visiting one of the silk mills, and if time permits, explore the tombs near Muradieh Mosque Private Balkan Trip. In the afternoon, venture to the Bazaars, ferruginous and sulphur baths, and proceed to the courtyard of Hudavendighiar Mosque for another splendid view of Brusa’s surroundings. If you visited the Muradieh tombs in the morning, there may be time in the afternoon for a donkey or carriage ride to Injaya, approximately 5 miles beyond the town, providing excellent views of Lake Apollonia, Brusa, and its environs on the return journey.

Seven Lakes

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Seven Lakes

A Virtual Nature Museum

Discovering Nature’s Masterpiece

Amidst a dense forest that almost blocks out the sunlight, the Seven Lakes unfold across two plateaus 800 meters above sea level. A well-marked road guides you through the national park, revealing the beauty of each lake in just a couple of hours. As you seek these lakes, adorned with names reflecting their unique charm, nature accompanies you with blackberries, mushrooms, and the soothing rustle of leaves underfoot. Even after glimpsing the lakes, surprises continue, as if walking through a tree tunnel protecting against the chill winds.

A Journey Through History

The ruins at Koyyeri hint at a Byzantine settlement, adding a historical touch to the natural wonder. The region, sloping from north to south, boasts diverse elevations, with Egrikiris Tepesi hill at 488 meters as the highest point and Kirazcati at 465 meters as the lowest. Home to one of Anatolia’s enchanting mixed forests, the area becomes a virtual museum of plants and trees. Beech trees dominate, accompanied by oak, hornbeam, alder, pine, fir, birch, elm, poplar, ash, hazelnut Yedigoller, and linden. The meticulous arrangement of trees paints the Seven Lakes in a palette of red, green, yellow, brown, and purple, resembling a pastoral canvas.

Seasonal Splendors

Every season brings a unique look and color to the Seven Lakes. Spring welcomes colorful rockroses, while summer sees cyclamen around tree roots. Water lilies grace the lake surface, blooming through both summer and fall. The stroll through tree-shaded paths becomes a soul-soothing experience, transporting visitors to other realms.

Wildlife Encounter

Although a deer breeding station is noted on the regional settlement plan, officials clarify that there are currently no deer in the area. Those raised in past months have been released into the wild. Every nook and cranny of the Seven Lakes reveals a different world, including open spaces with picnic tables. In this oxygen-rich environment Istanbul Old City Tours, satiating your appetite is possible with self-brought provisions, as there are no shops nearby. A day or two may not suffice to explore the full beauty of the Seven Lakes, but wandering through the silent forest, immersed in myriad scents and witnessing reflections on the lake, defines the essence of autumn at the Seven Lakes.

Yedigoller

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Yedigoller
A Mesmerizing Autumn Retreat”

A Symphony of Colors

As fall unfolds its enchanting palette, imagine standing in a forest where shades of green transition to hues of yellow, red, and finally brown. Picture a realm of smoky mountains, crystalline lakes, towering trees, and endless blossoms. Now, envision not just one lake but many, adorned with a sea of leaves in a myriad of colors that seamlessly blend into one another. Such is the magic of Yedigoller, a place where an ordinary autumn day transforms into a child-like fantasy.

Embarking on the Journey

After a brisk 42-km drive from Bolu city center, fatigue dissipates as we arrive at the Seven Lakes, stepping into an autumn fairytale where nature’s diverse colors harmonize Back to History Exploring the Second Courtyard. The Kapankaya Viewing Terraces provide an eagle’s eyrie perspective of the lakes, setting the stage for our exploration. Starting our nature hike from the shores of the largest lake, Buyukgol, the trail promises an easy journey through this captivating landscape.

Sister Lakes and Tranquil Breaks

Buyukgol, with its impressive 15-meter depth, is accompanied by its smaller sibling, Deringol. A tradition at the Seven Lakes is to pause at Dilek Fountain, where springs converge to feed the lake. Moving forward, we encounter the rock formations known as Gulen Kayalar, or the Smiling Rocks, resembling a grinning profile. Our journey continues to Nazli Gol, aptly named the Waterfall Lake, as powerful springs create a gentle cascade. Reflecting the most beautiful autumn colors, Nazli Gol invites moments of serene contemplation.

Exploring Enchanting Environs

Beyond, three more small lakes unveil their unique charm: Kurugol, Sazligol, and Incegol, whimsically named ‘dry,’ ‘reedy,’ and ‘dainty’ lake Local Guide Istanbul. Each contributes to the symphony of nature’s wonders, providing a tranquil setting for those seeking refuge in the embrace of fall’s beauty.

Yedigoller invites you to turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary adventure, where the crisp autumn air is filled with the magic of changing leaves. Embark on a journey through a realm of lakes and forests, where the whispers of nature create a melody that resonates in the heart. Are you ready to immerse yourself in this mesmerizing autumn retreat?

Back to History Exploring the Second Courtyard

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Back to History Exploring the Second Courtyard
Back to History Exploring the Second Courtyard

Unveiling the Second Courtyard

Emerging into the daylight, my gaze shifts to the second courtyard. A towering 10-meter gate, intricately adorned with cypress motifs, captivates my attention. Pausing to appreciate this exquisite detail, I step into the second courtyard, revealing the inner sanctums of the palace. Among them, the ‘Selamlik’ or Men’s Quarters Courtyard unfolds, housing surprises like the palace mosque, a mausoleum for Colak Abdi Pasa and ishak Pasa, and the majestic main building Seven Lakes.

Palatial Splendor Unveiled

The second courtyard unfolds the mesmerizing interiors of the palace, boasting a colossal harem, a soup kitchen, entertainment halls, rooms for workers and guests, a library, and a court of law. Each area traversed adds new dreams to a visitor’s experience, reviving the splendid days of the past. The palace’s grandeur is reborn in every guest who walks these historic grounds.

Enchanting Mosque and Timeless Beauty

Within the palace complex, the mosque stands as a testament to time, untouched by the devastations wrought by man and nature. Its interior, bathed in different hues of light throughout the day, exudes simplicity in architecture and impressive decorations, offering a purifying experience to all who enter Daily Tour Istanbul.

Immersive Historical Journey

For those yearning to touch history with their own hands, ishak Pasa Palace in the east goes beyond the written word or photographic evidence. Visitors depart from these history-steeped lands with indescribable memories, forever carrying a piece of the past within their hearts.

Culinary Delights in Dogubeyazit

No visit is complete without savoring the delectable meat dishes of Dogubeyazit, renowned for some of Turkey’s finest red meat. Abdigor kofte, beef meatballs, and the local specialty ‘selekeli,’ featuring fresh goat or lamb braised on a red-hot metal plate, are must-try options available at restaurants along Dogubeyazit’s bustling market street.

Accommodations for Exploration

To further explore the region’s tourist attractions, consider staying in one of the certified tourist hotels in the town center. With nine hotels in Dogubeyazit and ongoing efforts to enhance accommodation facilities, visitors can comfortably experience the charm of the area.

KARS CASTLE

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KARS CASTLE

Architectural Marvel of 1153

Constructed in 1153 by the Vizier of Saltuk Sultan Malik Izzeddin Salduk Firuz Akay, Kars Castle stands proudly on a steep rocky hill to the north of Kars. The castle, encompassed by 250-meter-high walls featuring three entrance doors, once housed a church that met its demise in 1386 under Timur’s rule. After restoration during the Ottoman Empire, the castle witnessed a period of Russian reign for 40 years following the Ottoman-Russian war. Offering a panoramic view of modern Kars, the castle is a testament to the city’s rich history.

APOSTLES CHURCH From Worship to Heritage

Bagratli King Abbas’s Legacy

Built to prominence by Bagratli King Abbas between 932 – 937 AD, the Apostles Church played a crucial role in making Kars the capital city Read More about KARS. Initially serving as a church, it underwent transformation into a mosque by Seljuks in 1064. Over the years, it alternated between church and mosque status, with Russian restoration in 1878 and the addition of a large bell tower in 1918. Operating as a museum until 1978, the Apostles Church follows a central cross plan and reflects the diverse cultural heritage of Kars.

SARIKAMIS SKI RESORT Nature’s Winter Playground

Pine-Clad Plateau Adventure

Nestled on a plateau 2200-2900 meters above sea level and adorned with yellow pine trees, Sarikami§ Ski Resort ranks high among Turkey’s premier ski destinations. Located 40 km from Kars airport, the resort boasts two chairlift facilities and pristine “crystal snow” reaching a thickness of 50-100 cm, making it a haven for skiers for an average of four months each year. Offering skiing options, including Alp and North Discipline, ski safaris, and sled trips, Sarikamis is not only a winter paradise but also a summer hotspot, contributing significantly to the region’s tourism Turkey Private Tours.

Where Tradition Meets Progress

City Planning Excellence

Kars captivates with its urban planning, featuring roads crisscrossing the city from east to west and north to south. Viewed from Kars Castle, the city’s organized road layout becomes evident. Anchored in cattle breeding and agriculture, Kars thrives in organic farming, renowned for its gruyere cheese, sheep cheese, and honey. The presence of Kafkas University infuses youthful energy, fostering a modern atmosphere within the city.

KARS

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KARS

A Gateway on the Silk Road

Kars, the Historic Crossroads

Kars, a city with roots tracing back to the Bulgarian Turks of the “Valatur” tribe, holds a distinct significance in Turkey’s history. Established around 130 – 127 BC by settlers from Dagistan, north of the Caucasian Mountains, Kars derives its name from the subdivision “Karsak.” Positioned along the Silk Road, Kars maintained its importance for centuries.

ANI ANTIQUE CITY A Treasure Trove of History

Ani Where Cultures Converge

Founded by Karsak Turks along the Arpagay River, Ani stands as a testament to cultural convergence between Turkey and Armenia. This ancient city boasts 10 churches, 1 bridge, 3 ruins, and numerous building foundations. In 1064, Seljuk Sultan Alparslan contributed significantly, constructing a palace, caravanserai, mosques, and Turkish baths. The lion relief at Ani Ruins’ main entrance symbolizes Seljuk triumph in 1064.

MENUCEHR MOSQUE A Seljuk Masterpiece

Ebu Suca Manucehr’s Legacy

Built in 1072, Menucehr Mosque holds the distinction of being the first mosque constructed by the Seljuks in Anatolia. Commissioned during the reign of Ebu Suca Manucehr from Sedatogullari, this 2-storey mosque is a striking example of Anatolian Seljuk architecture Turkey Private Round Tour. Adorned with colorful mosaic stones on the ceiling and intricate geometric ornaments, it stands as a testament to the Seljuks’ artistic prowess.

ST. PIRKITCH CHURCH A Marvel in Ruins

Glimpse into History

Constructed between 1034-1036, St. Pirkitch Church reflects the architectural brilliance of its builders. Built by the son of Abugremrizents Daklavi and the grandson of Gregor, the church features two stepped domes. Despite its partial destruction due to a thunderbolt, its remnants tell a tale of a bygone era.

YOUNG GIRLS CHURCH A Unique Gem

Trefoil Marvel

Situated outside the city walls, the Young Girls Church is perched on steep rocks along the Arpagay River. Built in the trefoil shape Read More about Decoding Tombstone Symbols
, it stands as one of the last structures from the Bagratid Kingdom, showcasing circular dome architecture.

THE BIG CATHEDRAL A Majestic Heritage

Basilica Grandeur

Commenced during the reign of King Sembat I and completed in 1010 by Gagik I, the Big Cathedral in the heart of Ani Ruins is an architectural marvel. Crafted from “tuf stones,” this basilica-designed cathedral, adorned with three entrance gates, served as a mosque during Seljuk rule in 1064.

SELJUK SULTAN PALACE A Cliffside Wonder

Historical Splendor

Perched on the northwest cliffs of Ani, the Seljuk Sultan Palace, a 3-storey structure, offers a breathtaking panoramic view. The ground level, restored in 1992, harks back to the 12th century, showcasing the grandeur of Seljuk architecture.

Decoding Tombstone Symbols

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Decoding Tombstone Symbols

Insights into Professions and Stories

Exploring Artistic Narratives on Tombstones

Nautical and Military Tributes

Discovering the profession of the deceased is often possible through elements on tombstones. Tombstones for fleet commanders, for instance, frequently take the form of a broken sail mast, symbolizing the loss of a sailor. Some tombstones feature reliefs of artillery cannons and cannonballs, indicating a military background. Even medals are engraved on certain tombstones Read More about KARS CASTLE. An intriguing example is a prince’s tombstone with a rope engraving on the neck portion, suggesting a tragic end by strangulation.

Bridal Veils and Broken Rose Buds Artistic Elegance

Tombstones also showcase artistic details, such as one at the Süleymaniye Mosque, planted in the grave of a girl who died at the age of marriage. A column-like tombstone with an engraved bridal veil resembling a real veil adds a poignant touch. Additionally, a broken rosebud on the foot şahide introduces a delicate yet meaningful detail.

Guardians of the Soul

Another common object found on tombstones is the dagger. Symbolizing gods, emperors, sovereignty, and bravery, daggers are believed to protect the soul from supernatural threats Turkey Private Guide, leading to their frequent illustration on tombstones.

Spiritual Orientation

Tombstones featuring mosque illustrations, primarily found in Western Anatolia, indicate that the deceased lies in the direction of the kiblah, emphasizing perpetual prayer. Explaining the multitude of symbols on Ottoman tombstones in this brief article is challenging, as there are hundreds of objects with various meanings. This article focuses on the most significant symbols. While some view Ottoman tombstones as works of art with deep meanings assigned by ancestors, others dismantle and repurpose them as debris in constructing new graves.

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