Symmetrical Church (Aynalı Kilise) in Göreme

Submitted by Iza on Mon, 01/18/2016 - 09:31

Halfway between Göreme and Ortahisar hides one of the most charming rock churches in Cappadocia. It is the Symmetrical Church (tr. Aynalı Kilise), called so because of its geometric ornamentations, mirrored on the opposite walls. Exploration of the interior and the adjacent monastery complex is a great adventure for all travelers who are not afraid of the dark and narrow, steep passages.

Symmetrical Church (Aynalı Kilise) in Göreme

Rise in museum admission fees in Turkey 2016

Submitted by Iza on Mon, 01/11/2016 - 18:55

On 4 January 2016, ticket prices to many museums and archaeological sites in Turkey were significantly increased. On the one hand, it is an economically justified move, since Turkish lira has recently been depreciated against the euro and the US dollar. On the other hand, this decision has caused discontent and many protests, especially among the representatives of the Turkish tourism sector. They fear that high ticket prices will deter tourists from visiting the most popular places in Turkey, including - Pamukkale and Ephesus. Also, the largest opposition party in the Turkish parliament, i.e. CHP, issued a request to the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mahir Ünal, urging him to cancel the decision.

Notion

Submitted by Iza on Tue, 01/05/2016 - 12:28

Extensive, but overgrown ruins of the ancient city Notion (Notium) are picturesquely situated on a hilltop overlooking the Aegean Sea coast, Ahmetbeyli village. Its history is closely related to nearby Colophon, hidden inland 17 km to the north. The name Notion in Ancient Greek means 'southern'.

December 2015 in Turkish archaeology

Submitted by Iza on Sat, 01/02/2016 - 12:59

Turkish Archaeological News collects the most important, interesting and inspiring news from Turkish excavation sites. Here's the review for December 2015. Have we missed anything? Let us know by using Contact tab!

Belha Monastery near Özkonak

Submitted by Iza on Mon, 12/21/2015 - 13:25

Belha Monastery is one of those places in Cappadocia, which are not frequently visited by organised tours. Although it is located just 5-minute-drive from a popular underground city in Özkonak, this historical monument remains poorly studied and is still surrounded by mystery. Not much can be learnt about its history, and rudimentary information provided by different sources about this monastery is often contradictory.