Selimiye Mosque (Center): Monumental structure, which is created by Mimar Sinan during his 80th age, and mentioned as my “Master piece” is one of the master pieces of Ottoman Turkish art and World Architectural History.

The mosque, which is the symbol of Edirne and Ottoman Empire, is in the city center. Structure which draw attention from distant lands via its four minarets, is also showing that Mimar Sinan was a city planning expert at the same time with the selection of construction site of it.

Cut stone built mosque, covers an area of 2475 m2. Selimiye Mosque, which is mentioned as the structure constructed on the widest place within the history of architecture, is drawing attention with its dome of 43,28 m high from ground, and 31.30 m. diameter. Dome, which is bigger than Hagia Sophia’s dome, is sitting on eight big positions, which are connecting to each other with six meters wide arches.

Mosque, is very important with its adornment characteristics, such as rock, marble, tile, wooden, nacre besides the uniqueness of architectural characteristics. Its niche and balcony are the master pieces of arts of marble labor. Tile adornments of the structure have an important place within Ottoman and World art. Most beautiful samples of the 16th century tile making, these tiles, are made with ’sıraltı’ technique, and constructed in İznik.

There are four elegant envelope minarets with 3,80 m diameter and 70,89 m height of Selimiye mosque. The minarets, which are at both sides of the public gate, have three roadpaths each, and each balcony can be climbed by separate stairs. Other two minarets have one passage.

There are Darüssıbyan, Darülkur’a and Darülhadis structures at outer courtyard of the structure, which is constructed as a kulliye.

Üç Şerefeli Mosque (Center): It is constructed in between 1443 and 1447, by IInd Murat. Mosque is among the early and classical periods of Osmanlı art. Here, you can face with a firstly applied plan. 24 meters diameter having big central dome, is based on the six supports, composed of two grade, and four wall grades. There are smaller two domes and covered square divisions at sides. Structure, as an innovation, has breadthways rectangular plan. This plan is applied by Mimar Sinan, to Istanbul mosques with more advanced form. Also courtyard with revak is firstly applied to this mosque in Ottoman architecture. Minarets are placed at four ends of the courtyard. Üç şerefeli mosque is a monumental structure which is leading to the latter mosques with these characteristics.

Monumental minaret with three balconies, which named the mosque, is 67,62 meters high. Separate passages are used to climb to the balconies.

Adornments of the mosque are also interesting. Unique chisel adornments at revak domes, are some of the oldest samples on the Osmanlı mosques.

Muradiye Mosque (Center): It is constructed on a Sarayiçi reigning hill at Muradiye district by IInd Murat. There is no dating on its inscription. It is the most beautiful sample of the side spaced (with zaviye) mosques.

In spite of simplicity of external appearance, mosque is one of the most drawing attention structures of 15th century Ottoman art according to internal adornment. Niche and walls covering tiles, are the most beautiful samples of the Turkish tile art.

II. Bayezit Mosque and Kulliye (Center): Kulliye, which at the coasts of Tunca River, and two kilometers away from city center, is one of the most important structures of Edirne. It is lying on a huge are with its mosque, medical theology school, imaret, darüşşifa, hamam, kitchen, provisions warehouses and other divisions. Architect of the kulliye, which is constructed by Bayezit II between 1484 and 1488, is Hayreddin. Kulliye, which has a very impressive appearance, is covered with nearly hundred small and large domes.

Most interesting one of the structures is the monumental mosque with two minarets, and 20,55 meters diameter. There are Tabhanes (publishing houses) with nine domes at both sides of the space with main dome. These divisions are directly opening to outside. Dome passage is supplied with pandatives.

Marble niche and pulpit have simple appearance. It is the first example in Edirne with very elegant sovereign gallery, made up of porphyry marble. Late period baroque adornments are disturbing the simple beauty of the mosque.

Eski Mosque (Center): It is the oldest monumental structure, remained from Ottomans in Edirne. Its construction is commenced in 1403 by Emir Süleyman, and completed in 1414 during Çelebi Sultan Mehmet. Its architect, is one of the pupils of Konyalı Hacı Alaaddin, Ömer ibn İbrahim.

Yıldırım Bayezid Mosque (Center): It is the oldest mosque of Edirne, which remained from 16th century, and three kilometers away from the city center. Both its plan and its column heads are showing that structure is a crucifix planned Byzantium church. While it was transformed into a mosque in the name of Yıldırım Bayazıd (1400), it is reconstructed other than base. But as the direction of Mecca is not complying with the axis of the structure, niche, had been put to one of the edges of the crucifix branches, and gained an inclined appearance. The current view of the mosque is composed of four arches, a dome and a single minaret.

Fatih Mosque (Enez Hagia Sophia, Enez): The structure of mosque, which remained from Byzantium period, is very big. It is from edge walled, crucifix planned churches group.

Structure, is transformed into a mosque with placing niche and balcony to the south branch during Ottoman period. It is interesting in connection with showing late Byzantium period characteristics with external surface tile adornments as well as middle Byzantium period with lengthwise progressed crucifix plan. The mosque has been currently in ruined position.

Sokullu Kulliye (Kasım Paşa Kulliye, Havsa): It is in Havsa province, on Edirne road. It is constructed to Mimar Sinan in the name of Kasım Pasha, son of Sokullu Mehmet Pasha in 1576 – 1577. Kulliye; was composed of two caravansaries, mosque, theology school, imaret, double hamam, dervish convent, bridge and guilds. Today only mosque, hamam, mosque courtyard based and an unpredictable wall with oven – niche, pray dome, binding mosque and caravansary in the middle of the guilds and fountain added afterwards to kulliye, can be seen.

Sweti George Church (Center): It is constructed in 1880 at Kıyık district of Edirne. Writings at the church, decorated in 1889, are written with Slav Bulgarian Language. There are some pictures remaining from the former church which was at the same place before.
Today the structure has still been well-kept.

Jewish Synagogue (Center): It is at Kaleiçi district of Edirne, and constructed in 1902 – 1903. Today it was not available for worship.

Ulu Mosque (Center): It is known as fifth Harem-i Şerif in Islamic world. After the conquest of Diyarbakır by Islamic armies, the biggest Christian temple of the city, Mar-Tama church had been converted into a mosque in 639. It was repaired in 1091 during Great Seljuk Sultan, Melikşah period. The mosque which was repaired with the aids of the public in 1240, had been greatly demolished due to the earthquake and fire. This initial Islamic structure, which has a great value in connection with inscriptions of various periods and şadırvans on its courtyard, was constructed with black stones.

Anatolian oldest mosque, Ulu Mosque, still draws attention today as a monumental structures group with surrounding two theology schools and other structures. In connection with its plan, it is similar to the Ummiye and Emevi mosques, constructed in between 705 and 715.

Behram Paşa Mosque (Center): Mosque constructed by 13th Ottoman Governor Behram Paşa, is one of the most beautiful samples of the Ottoman architecture. Embroidered balcony of the mosque is a master pieces of art.

Şeyh Matar Mosque (Center): Four feet minaret and mosque, is an Akkoyunlu piece of art, and is constructed in 1500 by Sultan Kasım. Minaret was located on a single piece column as four edged. Usage of kiln – dried wood on the columns is also a characteristic of the minaret. According to a belief the wishes of a person who passes between the columns for seven times will be accepted.

Safa Mosque (Center): Mosque, which is constructed in 1532, is an Akkoyunlu piece of art. Its minaret, which is rumored that preserved within a cover, is very elegant.

Meryem Ana (Mother Mary) Church (Center): It is remaining from 6th century, and repaired for several times in the course of time. Its niche, remaining from Bizantium period, Roman shaped door is drawing attention. There are mausoleums of some saints within the church. Church, which belongs to Süryani Kadim Yakubi sect, has descriptions of some saints.

Goncalı Church (Laodicia Church): Laodicia Antic City, which is six kilometers north of Denizli, is founded on the hills between the current location of Eskihisar and Goncalı Villages. It took its name from Selekoses King, Antiochos’ II(250 B. C.) wife, Laodice, who was ruling the region. It was formerly known as Rhoas or Dios.

Two theaters, stadium, basilica, nymphaeum, temple, street with statues are monumental structures constructed during Roman age among the main ruins, which can be seen at the surface today.

The time when Laodicia had reached its highest wealth level coincided to the Roman and early Christianity period, and late Bizantium age. City was also improved as a therapy center at the same time due to the curing characteristics of hot water in city, which was coming from a foundation near Hierapolis.

As it is understood from the Holy Bible and other documents the natives of the city was totally indifferent to the new religion. First missionaries had believed that this behavior stemmed from their wealth, which prevented them to share. Laodicia was an important bishop center where Ecumenical Committee had met during 4th century A. D. In addition to this, its name is mentioned as one of the seven churches in revelation part of the last section of the Holy Bible. It means “Sound of Public” in Latin.

St. Philıppe Marytyrion (Ottogon, Pamukkale): It was constructed in the name of one of the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ, St. Philippe, and on a high hill at the north of Hierapolis antique city center. St. Philippe had firstly come to Hierapolis in 80 A. D. and wanted to extend the believers of Christianity,however he had been killed at the place where Martyrion had been constructed. It is known that Martyrion was constructed in the memory of St. Philippe during the end of 4th century or at the beginning of 5th century. The grave of the St. Philippe is thought to be within this central chamber.

Hierapolis St. Cathedral: It is in the city center of Hierapolis, between Agora and Theater and north junction point of Column Street.

Church: Excavation of the church, which is approximately 150 m. away from the north of Hierapolis Theater, was performed during previous years. The church is dated to the 5th century with its rectangular plan.

Ulu Mosque (Center): It was constructed between in 1396 and 1400 by Yıldırım Bayezit, fully made up of cut stone, with very thick and high walls, 12 heavy four edged grade, with pendantives as of 20 domes.

It is the most classical and monumental sample of the multi – domed mosques. It has the biggest size (318 square meters) among all of the Turkish mosques with its rich and roomy space. Its balcony with small tenon panels, finely processed with Greek and palmettes, parapet networks with geometrical samples, inscription on its front side and networked corolla is a master piece of art of transition from Seljuk style to Ottoman style.

According to the rumor related with the construction of şadırvan; some lands should have been nationalized for construction of Ulu Mosque. Şadırvan’s place was belonged to a Jewish woman. This woman who did not want to give her land had seen in her dream one night that everybody was running to the same direction. She curiously asked them where they were going, and took the respond of “Heaven!”. She also wanted to run but they stopped her, as she was not giving her land. Jewish woman who had impressed much from this dream, had gave her land next day on condition that they would build a şadırvan.

When the construction process of the mosque discontinue due to financial problems, Christian and Jewish communities supplied a certain amount of money, then in return Muslims used the stones on which David’s Star and Cross signs are engraved on the windows of the mosque to show their gratitude.
Emir Sultan Mosque and Tomb (Center): A famous scientist, Emir Sultan had come to Bursa in 1391, and had married with the daughter of Yıldırım Bayezit, Hundi Fatma Hatun. Emir Sultan Mosque and tomb was cosntructed by his wife during Murat II period. It is on a hill east of Bursa, adjacent to Emir Sultan Graveyard.

There is a tomb with eight edges near to them on the north direction. Today’s shape of Emir Sultan Mosque, a beautiful sample of mosque type with single dome in a courtyard with a şadırvan, was constructed in 1804 during Sultan Selim III period.

Muradiye Kulliye (Center): It is within a huge park in Muradiye district. Kulliye, which was constructed by Sultan Murat II in between 1424 and 1426, composed of a mosque, theology school, charitable establishment, hamam and 12 tombs.

The mosque has an angular shape which was used widely during the primary period in Ottoman architecture. Its niches and balconies are from 18th century, and it is one of Baroque style. Its entrance door is one of the most beautiful samples of wood work. There are 12 pieces of tombs within Muradiye Kulliye, which are constructed in the name of Murat II and his family.

Orhan Mosque and Kulliye (Center): Kulliye, which is constructed by Orhan Bey in between 1339 and 1340, is composed of mosque, theology school, charitable establishment, school, hamam and inn (Emir Inn) structures. It is on the east part of Ulu Mosque, and one of the first samples of Ottoman Kulliye.

Orhan Mosque is one of the most important structures of early Ottoman period in Bursa. Twin arches at both sides are one of the most important characteristics of the structure. It was constructed with two rows of bricks and one row of stone. Brick work on its external surface is also very interesting.
Hüdavendigar Mosque and Kulliye (Center): Kulliye which was constructed by Sultan Murat I (Hüdavendigar) between 1366 and 1385 in Çekirge district, is composed of a mosque, theology school, charitable establishment, tomb and hamam.

Unique in Ottoman architecture, the two storied complex’s first floor is a mosque while the second floor is a theology school. Architecture of the structure, which has an appearance of a palace with its imposing external minaret, is not certain. Two layered forehead with upper layer porticos, opened with double steep arches with middle column aside and front, is gaining an imposing panorama reminding the Venetian palaces. Şadırvan under the dome, whose middle part is open, creates a harmonious atmosphere with gentle splashes.

Oposite to Hüdavendigar Mosque, there is the tomb of the Sultan Murat II (Hüdavendigar) , who died during military service in 1389 in Cassava War I . The epitaph of the tomb constructed by Yıldırım Bayezid is dated 1722.

Yıldırım Bayazıt Kulliye (Center): The complex constructed in between 1390 and 1399 in Yıldırım district at the east of the city is composed of a mosque, theology school, darüşşifa (cure house), tomb, inn, hamam, charitable establishment, pleasure – house, kitchen, service rooms and stable structures. The mosque at the middle of the kulliye is one of the most monumental example of the sided mosques, and it has a cure house dated 1399. Ottoman architecture had started to find a unique building structure style with this mosque.

The tomb, which is single structured with its inscription is on the north east of the mosque. The tomb which was constructed to Mimar Ali bin Hüseyin by Yıldırım Bayezit’s son Süleyman Han in 1406, is the first sample of Ottoman tombs with portico.

Yeşil Mosque (Center): Adornments of the mosque, which is constructed by Çelebi Sultan Mehmet between 1419 and 1420, was constructed in 1424 during Murat II period. It is also known as Yeşil Mosque due to the green turquoise and tiles used on adornments. Its architect is Hacı İvaz Paşa. It is one of the most important Ottoman period structure in Bursa, and the mosque is famous with its adornments much more than its architecture. Tile adornments are the most important characteristics of the mosque.

Yeşil Tomb (Center): Structure, which is the symbol of Bursa, is one of the most beautiful samples of Ottoman tomb architecture. Octagonal structure, to which you can climb via a marble stair, is covered by a lead dome perched on a high hoop. It is a unique structure with its tile adornments. Its fully tile covered balcony is a master piece of art. One of the most beautiful samples of the Ottoman wooden work,the door was built by transition technique of walnut tree, adorned with geometrical motifs and has inscription on it.

Geruş synagogue (Center): It is located at Arap Şükrü Street. It was constructed by the first Jewish group who settled in Bursa after they had been expeled from Spain in 14th century and welcomed by Ottoman Emperor Selim II. and brought to the region. The name of the synagogue that was derived from a word in the Hebrew language Geruş meaning “expelled” has a special sense from that point of view. The synagogue reaching to our times in a god condition is in service of the Jewish community.

Mayor Synagogue (Center): It is located at Arap Şükrü Street. It was constructed by the other Jewish communities welcomed by the Ottoman Empire and migrated from the Mayorka Island, Spain and settled in Bursa in 15th century. Moreover as they inspired from the name of the island they had departed, they gave the name Mayor to the synagogue that they constructed. The inital date of the construction is known to be 15th century. Vivid designs on the walls and the ceiling of the interior section of the synagogue draw attention.

Etz Ahayım Synagogue (Center): Located at Arap Şükrü Street and constructed in the beginnings of 14th century, the name of the synagogue means “Life Tree” in the Hebrew Language. It is peculiar in that it is the first synagogue to be constructed during Ottoman period. An imperial decree was announced during the reign of Orhan Bey, conqueror of Bursa, and the structure of the synagogue was approved.

İznik Green Mosque (İznik): The mosque, which is the most important monumental structure of Ottoman architecture in İznik, is at the east of province and near to the Lefke Gate. It is constructed by Çandarlı Hayrettin Paşa in between 1378 – 1398.

Hacı Özbek Mosque (Bazaar Mosque, İznik): It is within bazaar in İznik. It is constructed in 1333, and is the oldest inscription having Ottoman mosque.
Ayasofya Museum (İznik): It is in the middle of the city, and constructed in 4th century. Byzantium church, turned into a mosque during Orhan Gazi.The museum is where the 7th Ecumenic Council of high esteem for Christians was arranged.It is a collapsed structure today.

Senatus (Consule Palace, İznik): Senatus, which is the first Consul meeting performed, which is deemed as very important by Christians, is also named as Consul palace. Ruinsof the piece of art which is at lake gate side, are below the lake waters.

Ulu Mosque (Center): Mosque constructed in 1150 by Ebu’l Muzaffer Muhammed is one of the oldest samples of Anatolian Turkish architecture. Strong stone architecture and balcony front dome within a symmetric balanced plan which is prototype among the other mosques is emphasizing an impressing development. The development of these process continues in Artukian mosques afterwards.

Ahlat Vaults

Ulu Vault: Ulu Vault, which is the biggest of Ahlat vaults, is at south of Meydanlık Graveyard, and near to Lake Van. It is estimated that it is constructed during 13th century. Rosette and “Wheel of Fortune” motifs are adorned on the loopholes on base of vault.

Hüseyin Timur Vault: It is one of the two vaults in the west that named İki Kubbe District. “Emir Hüseyin Timur ibn Bugatay Aka died in 1279″ is mentioned in the script on its entrance, and “Hüsameddin Hüseyin Aka Kızı Esentekin Hatun died in 1280″ is mentioned in the script on east window.

Bugatay Aka Vault: The vault was constructed for Bugatay Aka and Şirin Hatun, who died in 1281, is at the east of Hüseyin Timur Vault.While covered with a conical hat externally, the vault is closed by a dome internally.

Hasan Padişah Vault: This vault in Taht-ı Süleyman District is the second important and big monument after Ulu Vault. It is made up of Ahlat stone, and repaired widely. Vault is covered by a dome internally, and a conical hat externally.

Erzen Hatun Vault: According to the script written on corolla door, vault was constructed for Emir Ali’s daughter Erzen Hatun between 1396 and 1397,and is one of the most ornamented one among the Ahlat Vaults. Besides geometrical and vegetal adornments, borders of hexagonal series are interesting.

Emir Bayındır Vault: The vault at the west of the İki Kubbe District, at the end of Meydanlık Graveyard is one of the most interesting Ahlat vaults according to art history. In the script which surrounds the vault from its upper part, the life and characteristics of Melik Bayındır Bey, who died in 1481 is written.

Kesiş Vault: The vault in İki Kubbe District is the simplest piece of art of Ahlat. It is also known as Keşiş or Tek Vault. According to the general characteristics of its structure, it is supposed to be a 14th century product.

Theology School With Double Minarets (Center): It is constructed by Seljukian Sultan, Alaaddin Keykubad’s daughter Hüdavend Hatun in1253. It is the biggest of the theology schools with double minarets with double storey and open air courtyard. It is one of the most beautiful examples of Seljukian style with its corolla gate, relief adornments.

Yakutiye Theology School (Center): It is a artistically highly valuable piece of art, remaining from İlhanlılar. According to the Arabic inscription on its corolla gate, it is constructed in 1310 by Hoca Cemaleddin Yakut with the aids of Sultan Gazan and Balugan Hatun of Horasan. Theology school, is one of the pieces of arts, which did not loose its importance until today like Double Minarets.

Ulu Mosque (Atabey Cami, Merkez): The mosque, which is thought to be constructed by Saltukoğulları in 1179, had been repaired for several times during the course of time, and used other than its real function from time to time.

Three Kumbets (Center): There are two great characteristics of these magnificent kumbets, which are remaining from Saltukoğulları period. The first one is being one of the first pieces of arts in Anatolia, and the second one is all these three kumbets are constructed with completely different architectural style.

The one, which is placed on eight edged plan from three kumbets, is thought to be belong to Emir Saltuk, who is the founder of Saltuklu State. In the other two, which are completely constructed from cut stones, no one knows who is buried.

Gök Medrese Mosque (Center): Gökmedrese mosque, deemed to be constructed in Amasya (1267) by one of the governors of the Seljuk Empire, Torumtay, is a structure with three cupolas, covered with dome and vaults, reaching to the depths with a certain shape. Its hewn stone architecture, have a serious, sedate style with its ratios and simple adornments. Long entrance division of the mosque is used as a theology school.

Burmalı Minare Mosque (Center): It was constructed by Vizier Ferruh and his brother Haznedar Yusuf during Seljuk Sultan, Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev 2nd in 1237 and 1247. Classical octagonal shaped Seljuk vault adjacent to the left side wall of the entrance and wringling minaret added afterwards are the certain characteristics of the mosque.

Sultan Bayezıt II Kulliye (Center): Kulliye constructed in the name of Sultan Bayezit II in 1485 – 86; is composed of mosque, theology school, charitable establishment, monument and şadırvan (water tank with a fountain).

It is the advanced final sample of the mosque with side place (L planned) architecture, constructed during the last quarter of the 15th century. There are two minarets of the mosque. There are a theology school at west and charitable establishment and a guest – house at east. Old plane tress at the level of both minarets, are estimated to be as old as kulliye.

Ulu Mosque (Karamanoğlu Mosque, Center): It is written on the inscription of the mosque on an accumulated hill that it was constructed to Architecture Mehmet Firuz Bey by Karamanoğlu Mehmet Bey between 1408 and 1409. Most important characteristic of the mosque which is a typical piece of Karamanoğlu art is its minbar(pulpit beside the mihrab reached by a long, straight flight of steps), which is constructed from ebony, as one of the master piece of art of wood of Seljuk period.

Eğri Minaret (Red Minaret, Center): It belongs to Seljuk period, and thought to be constructed between 1221 and 1236. It is also known as Red Minaret as it is made up of red bricks.

Taptuk Emre Village and Monument (Taptuk Emre Village): 20 kilometers north of the province of Aksaray, the village was founded on the skirts of small Ekecik Mount, and mentioned that it was belonged to Taptuk Emre. There are mosque and monument, at the most upper part of the skirts of the mountain.

A sarcophagus was placed on the grave of the Taptuk Emre without damaging it Yunus Emre Mausoleum (Ortaköy – Reşadiye Village): It is within Reşadiye village 20 kilometers from the province center of Ortaköy, Aksaray. The hill on which mausoleum is present, is also known as a hill of visit (ziyaret tepesi) by people.

Kaya Mosque (Güzelyurt): It is in the Güzelyurt province center. It is thought to be remained from 14th century.

Selime Sultan Mausoleum (Selime Village): Mausoleum within Selime village reflects the early period characteristics in connection with both architecture and decoration. Rocks and bricks were embellished on within the other. It is dating back to the beginning of 8th century according to its architectural style and materials.

Church Mosque (Saint Gregorius Church) (Güzelyurt): It is in Güzelyurt province center reflecting the pieces of art of Chirstianity period , and has a great importance for Orthodox society. It is constructed in 385 A. D. inspired from the shape of the close cross. The church which is modified with various additions and repairs, then turned into a mosque with converting its bell tower into a minaret.

Saint Anargiros Church (Güzelyurt): It is in the Güzelyurt province center. Closed cross planned church, was constructed with fully engraving into rock including its domes and columns. Church was finally repaired in 1884. It is understood from the date 1887 on its dome that it was constructed three years after repair of the frescos. There are people who coming for pilgrimage from Vatican city today. On November,1 which is the religious day of Saint Anargiros, patients are praying till to morning with organizing a great ceremony in the church.

Saint Georges Church (Kırkdamaltı Church, Belisırma): It is the highest church in the region, and thought to be constructed in between 1283 and 1295. An inscription encircle all over the church. All subjects narrated in the Holy Bible and a picture of Seljuk Sultan, 2nd Mesud are depicted on the fresco of the church.

Selime Cathedral (Selime): There are two lined columns within the cathedral, which is on a high place engraved into rocks. These columns are separating cathedral into three landing stairs.

Castle Monastery Church (Selime): It is one of the biggest religious organizations in Cappadocia. Monastery is dating between 8th and 14th century or 10th century, and figured frescos within the church are dating between the end of 10th and beginning of 11th century. There are illustrations such as the depiction of Jesus Christ rising to the sky, Herald and Virgin Mary.

Yüksek Church (Center): The church, which is also known as monastery , is a stone masonry on steep rocks. It is about three kilometers away from city center.

Kızıl Church (Sivrihisar): It took the name Kızıl Church as it is made up of red cut stone. Church is dated back to 5th-6th century.
Sivişli Church (Güzelyurt): This is a rock engraved church within the borough. Portraits of Jesus Christ and Virgin Mary in the middle and Apostles on the sides of the dome are present.

Antique Nora Viranşehir (Helvandere Borough): This small town is 30 kilometers away from south of Aksaray, which is at the skirts of Mount Hasan, had been settled since Roman and Byzantium period. There are lots of churches within the town, which preserve their importance during Roman and Byzantium periods, today. Structures that have erected still belong to Byzantium period. Although these churches are partially demolished, various frescos are still draw attention.

Ağaçaltı Church (Daniel, Pantanossa, Ihlara): It is within Ihlara Valley, at the south side of entrance stairs of the valley. On the frescos, there are illustrations of Revelation, Visit and Birth, Escape to Egypt, baptism of Jesus Christ and death of Virgin Mary. And scene of ascend to sky is present on the dome.

Pürenli Seki Church (Ihlara): It is composed of four parts engraved on rock. There are graves on Narteks ground. Frescos are dated between the beginning of 10th century and 12th century. Its pictures illustrate various scenes from Holy Bible and childhood of Jesus Christ such as Prophecy of the Prophets, Virgin Mary and Bishops, Herald, Visit and Worship of the Shepherds.

Kokar Church (Ihlara): Subject matters on the frescos dated to the end of 9th century or second half of 11th century are very rich. The descriptions as to the Last Supper, Crucifixion, Burial of the Messiah, Ascending to Sky, Duties of the Apostles sometimes reflect an integrity subject matter,which is very interesting. Adornments within two grave chambers of the church are the first samples made with red paint.

Eğritaş Church (Ihlara): It is mentioned within an inscription on the east wall that the Church, understood as one of the oldest structures of the valley and a huge temple was devoted to Virgin Mary. Though damaged, the frescos on which the descriptions of Jesus Christ sitting between two angels, Virgin Mary between two angels and six bishops, dream of the Prophet Joseph, Escape to Egypt, Baptism, Entrance to Jerusalem still draws attention with its very colorful and live drawing.

Sümbüllü Church (Ihlara): The monastery places are engraved into rock mass as two layers. There are pictures of Virgin Mary between Archangel Michael and Gabriel, Jesus Christ and three Hebrew juveniles in the oven as well as saints.

Yılanlı Church (Ihlara): Narrow cross branches at north and south is surrounding the central place adorned with an embroidered cross on its ceiling. There are pictures such as Crucified Jesus Christ, Entrance to Jerusalem, Burial of the Egyptian Virgin Mary, Visit.

Bahattin Samanlığı Church (Belisırma): It is a church with a single corridor. One alcove like dome engraved on north – and west – side walls, and three alcoves like domes engraved on south wall form the ceiling with the shape of a cradle.

Direkli Church (Belisırma): One can reach the monuments of the priests and residants of the staff of the church through the door within the church. There are pictures as two lines on the columns over church. Inscriptions can be seen at both sides of Saints and Apostles. It is a monastery church dating back to 11th and 13th centuries.

Ala Church (Belisırma): It is a church engraved on rocks at the east side of the valley and north of the village. It was constructed after Christianity had been set free. There are pictures of Saints and Apostles on the upper part of its front side. There are pictures of Birth, Anastasis, Entrance to Jerusalem, Egypt, Sanctification of Virgin Mary.

Karagedik Church (Belisırma): It is established on a hill covered with grass leaning against a steep rock. It is a big church constructed in 11th Byzantium style, and it reminds the Çanlı( With Bell) Church.

İshak Paşa Palace Mosque (Doğubeyazıt): The place, constructed on a hill at Beyazıt by Hasan Paşa’s son İshak Paşa who became grand vizier in 1789 , is complying with Ottoman’s palace organization with its rooms and halls, which are reaching the number of 360. It is said that the construction of the palace,760 square meters area, took 99 years. On the architecture of the building collected around two courtyards within each other and “U” shape (mosque – harem chambers – food aid chambers – hamam, reception room – ceremonial and amusement room – mausoleum etc.) perfect masonry, and on its engravements and wall adornments Persian, Seljuk and Ottoman civilizations’ mutual impacts can be seen.

İshak Paşa Mosque is,within the second courtyard of the palace, between harem and reception rooms. Body walls are two times higher than the palace. Mosque, dome and minaret is overlooking to all of the palace. Its huge portals with sharp arches and turbans reminds of Seljuk architecture rather than that of Ottomans. Big plastic naturalist plant adornments on the rock are showing the impacts of Caucus alien on Turkish art.

Square planned minaret, fully constructed with Turkish style have a monumental appearance on its own. Octagonal monument, constructed adjacent to external walls, at kıble (the direction of Mecca) side of the mosque, has two layers complying with Seljuk monument architecture tradition. Window corners and some surfaces of the mosque and the monuments externally fully made up of cut rock (including dome) and are decorated with Rococo style embroideries that figure out trees and flowers.

Mount Ağrı: Turkey’s highest mountain, Ağrı (5165 m.) had drawn attention of scientists, mountaineers and wanderers and subjected to various stories, türkü (folk songs) and myths.

According to a widespread belief mentioned in the Holy Bible and the Pentateuch, an evil covered the world during The Prophet Noah. With the aim of rebuking human beings, God ordered Noah to construct a ship. Prophet Noah, his spouse, his sons, and one apiece from all creatures in the world will be on board of the ship. Prophet Noah, had constructed the ship in parallel to the order of the God and filled the ship with the creatures.All creatures on the ship had been vanished as a result of the flood. After the flood had come to an end, the ship grounded on Mount Ağrı, and creatures within it left the ship and spread all around of the world.

The mountain, which is very special in terms of religion due to this religious tale, is very impressive with its majestic appearance,height, its snowy peaks even during summer months,fauna and flora.

Hamamlı Church (Center): It is in the Hamamlı village of Artvin province. The church is 32 km. from the city center, was constructed by Sembat I from Baghdad in between 923 and 958. It has an impressive architecture with its embroidered “sundial” which had maintained its characteristic on its door till today.

Barhal Church (Altıparmak Church, Yusufeli): It is within the Altıparmak village, which is 12 km. away from north west of Yusufeli district. It is used as a mosque today and still protects its historical characteristic.

İşhan Church (Yusufeli): It is 11 km. east from Yusufeli district, and in Dağyolu (İşhan) village. The mosque which was previously constructed as a church in 1008 was converted into a mosque by Ottomans in 1549. Relief illustrating the challenge of a dragon and a lion among the adornments on window borders is interesting. Church with a conical structure still preservs its original structure.

Cevizli Church (Şavşat): It is 6 km. from north east of Şavşat province, in Cevizli village. It was constructed between 899 and 914 by one of the governors of Bagratlı, Aşut Kukh. Grave of Aşut Kukh is adjacent to this church. A Georgian structure, Cevizli Church’s external face was adorned with columns and relieves. There is a relief of Jesus Christ on the north windows. Ram head relieves in the church and ram head statues on its ceiling is showing that Bagrats are fond of Huns for whom ram is deemed as holy.

Köprülü Bridge (Şavşat): It is 7 km from north west of Şavşat province and in Köprülü village. It is thought that this is considered as the center of the churches within the region. Only the remnants of the church constructed by Zortana,one of the rulers of Kıpçaklı has erected today.

Yivli Minaret (Alaaddin Mosque, Center): It is in the city center of Antalya. It is the minaret of Alaaddin Mosque, which was converted into a mosque in 1230 by Seljuk Sultan, Alaaddin Keykubad.Catching one’s eyes at the first look, Yivli Minaret considered as a symbol of the city. As its structure is cut up into slices by bricks, and constructed with 8 pieces of semi – cylindrical shape, it is named as Yivli Minaret. Very thick body had gained an aesthetic structure due to these grooves. Turquoise and dark blue colored Allah and Mohammad words are written to every direction of the floor.

Kesik Minare Mosque (Korkut Mosque – Cami – i Kebir, Center): That piece of mosque art from Seljuk period, was previously constructed as Panagelia Church in the name of Virgin Mary by Byzantium during 5th A.D., and turned into a mosque by Şehzade Korkut during Bayezit II. It is also known as Korkut Mosque or Cami-i Kebir due to this reason. It is renamed as Kesik Minaret as the mosque was destructed after the a fire in 1851.

Kale Mosque (Sultan Süleyman Mosque, Alanya): It is at the west side of the shipyard of Alanya. It was constructed by Seljuk Sultan, Alaaddin Keykubad I. As it was re-constructed by Sultan Süleyman between 1530 and 1566, it is also known as Sultan Süleyman Mosque.

Saint Nicholas Church (Kale – Demre): Myra (Demre) is known as the place where Saint Nicholas, known as Santa Claus (Father Christmas) in Christianity world, had performed his duty as a bishop. Moreover the church was constructed during 6th century as a memorial to Saint Nicholas after his death.

Some remnants of Saint Nicholas tomb which has been stolen to Bari city by Italian sailors during the second half of our century are currently exhibited in the Antalya Museum. International Santa Claus (Father Christmas) Festival organized every year in Kale(Demre) and Kaş between December 6-8 turn into a symposium where foreigners have also participated in Antalya recently.

Aya Yorgi Church (Alanya): It is thought that the church within the Alanya Castle, was constructed by Byzantium during 6th century A. D.