Numerous civilizations have thrived in Turkey, each leaving a special mark of its own. Sacred places in Turkey have been dotted throughout its landscapes for millennia. Making Turkey a center of different religious learning, beliefs and places of worship reflecting the myriad civilizations and religions that have called this land home.
In this guide, we will explore some of the most significant sacred places in Turkey. By delving into their historical and spiritual significance. Let’s explore the sacred places in Turkey, where rich history meets spiritual depth. From the iconic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, which bridges Byzantine and Ottoman legacies, to ancient Greek sacred sites and the serene House of the Virgin Mary. Turkey’s diverse sacred sites offer a captivating blend of cultural and religious experiences. Join us to uncover the profound spiritual heritage that makes Turkey a unique destination for history and faith enthusiasts.
Let’s Dive Into the Background and Prestige of Turkey
1. Sacred places in Turkey
Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is located in Istanbul. It was built as a Christian cathedral in 537 AD. Later in 1453 AD it was converted into a grand mosque after the conquest of Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II. Today it stands as a testimony of the architectural brilliance and spiritual grandeur of both the Byzantine and Ottomans. It’s a must-visit destination on your trip to sacred places in Turkey due to its history and artistry that continues to attract people from around the world.
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Süleymaniye Mosque
The Süleymaniye mosque another famous Ottoman architectural marvel is also located in city of Istanbul. The mosque was ordered by Sultan Suleiman and architect Mimar Sinan made its design and it was completed in 1557 D. The mosque serves as a place of worship, peaceful meditation and reflection. The mosque’s architecture includes a beautiful courtyard and extensive complex making it another famous tourist spot in Turkey.
Blue Mosque
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque is also famously renowned as the Blue Mosque is also situated in Istanbul. It got the name due to its shocking 20,000 hand painted tiles in blue that enhance its inside beauty. The construction of the mosque completed in 1617AD and to this day it stands as an architectural marvel of the Ottomans. The awe-inspiring beautiful grandeur of the mosque makes it another must-visit spot in Turkey.
Eyup Sultan Mosque
This mosque, a greatly respected tomb for Muslims as it is the burial place of Prophet Muhammad’s standard-bearer and companion, Abu Ayyub al-Ansari. During the first Arab siege of Constantinople, he died near the city’s walls and so he got buried there. The mosque ,later built in the 15th century and also served as a Coronation spot for Ottoman Sultans. The mosque is sacred to Muslims due to its historical and spiritual connection to early history of Islam.
Tomb of Joshua
The Tomb of Joshua is located in the ancient city of Kayseri in Turkey. The tomb said to be the burial place of the biblical figure Joshua who succeeded Moses and led Israelites to the promised land in Canaan. The site holds sacred importance for both Jews and Christians as a place of remembrance and leadership. The site can be visited to understand more about the spiritual significance of both religions.
Mor Gabriel Monastery
Mor Gabriel Monastery is located in the Mardin Province of Turkey. The monastery is also famously known as Deyrulumur. It is the second oldest Syriac Orthodox monastery in the world. It established in the 4th century, it plays the significant role of spiritual hub for the Syriac Orthodox Church and is also home to several saints relics. The monastery serves as a major pilgrimage site for the Syriac community and a testament to the endurance of faith.
House of the Virgin Mary
The House of the Virgin Mary is located on Mt. Koressos in the area of Ephesus. The place a Christian shrine, believed to be the final resting place of Mother Mary after the crucifixion. The story considered shady because a bedridden a German nun, Anne Emmerich seen it in her visions. Whatever might be the story the place has beautiful scenery and a pilgrimage site attracting people from around the world.
St. Nicholas Church
St. Nicholas Church is located in Demre, formerly known as Myra, near Antalya. The church built on top of the burial place of St. Nicholas and people believed he inspired the legend of Santa Claus. The church built in the 6th century and relics of the saints placed there but later moved to Bari, Italy. The place considered sacred as it has a reputation that St. Nicholas performed miracles here which makes it a pilgrimage site as well.
Basilica of St. John
The Basilica church located in Selçuk near Ephesus on the site where they believed to be the John the Apostle burial place. Built in the early 6th century by Justinian I the site highlights the Christian devotion towards their religion. The place believed to be sacred and a pilgrimage site. It has relevance with one of Jesus’s closest disciples making it one of the top visiting spots in Turkey.
The Temple of Artemis
The temple is another one of the sacred places in Turkey located in Ephesus. King of Lydia constructed the site in 650 BC. The site used to serve as a grand sanctuary dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis. The temple attracts several tourists and pilgrims from all over the world who believe in Artemis. The site had major sacred significance for the Greeks. The exhibition hall is a must-see sacred place in Turkey because of its historical significance.
The Oracle at Miletus
Didyma widely known as the Oracle of Miletus was a Greek sanctuary in the ancient city of Miletus and dedicated to the Greek god Apollo. Known for the prophetic utterances. The priests used to channel Apollo’s divine insights and provide guidance and predictions. The place plays a significant in helping to understand about ancient greeks mythology and architecture.
Grand Mosque of Bursa
The Grand Mosque of Bursa, Turkey, built by Sultan Bayezid I to dedicate it to his triumph at the Battle of Nicopolis. The mosque construction completed in 1399. It stands to be a marvel of early Ottoman architecture. The mosque interior inspired by the Seljuk tradition. It’s being preserved by many generations. The mosque is almost 600 years old. The mosque is a major visiting spot as it highlights the amazing grandeur of Ottoman history.
The Cave Churches of Ihlara Valley
Ihlara Valley is located in the Turkish region of Cappadocia, Aksaray Province. The valley is home to about 50 Christian cave churches built across the valley. Churches divided into two groups. One located near the village of Ihlara influenced by Persia and Syria styles and the second group near Belisarma represents the Byzantine style. The churches have serene surroundings and beautifully decorated interiors with paintings making a worthwhile trip.
The Shrine of Rumi
The Shrine is the burial place of the greatest Sufi mystic, philosopher and poet Moulana Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi famously known as Rumi and is located in Konya, Turkey. The place gifted as a rose garden to him by the Sultan of Seljuk who had invited him to his palace which he used as a worshipping lodge and provide guidance to others. The Rumi’s shrine a major pilgrimage site for the Muslims. It should be marked to visit on your list.
2. Interesting Facts about Sacred places in Turkey
- Hagia Sophia used to be a museum in 1935 till it reconverted into a mosque in 2020.
- The Temple of Artemis was one of the Ancient World’s Seven Wonders, renowned for its grandeur and architectural beauty.
- There Are More Than 80,000 Mosques in the country of Türkiye.
- Mor Gabriel is one of the oldest continuously operating monasteries in the world of Syriac Orthodox community.
- The city of Istanbul formerly known as Constantinople which changed after the conquest of Sultan Mehmed II.
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People may ask
1. What was the purpose of building the Grand Mosque of Bursa?
Sultan Bayezid I constructed it to dedicate to the victory of the Battle of Nicopolis by
2. Who inspired the legend of santa claus?
St. Nicholas has inspired the famous story of santa claus due to his unmatched generosity and kindness.
3. Where is the House of the Virgin Mary?
According to the visions of a German nun the House of the Virgin Mary is located on Mt. Koressos in the area of Ephesus.
4. Where is Basilica of St. John?
The Basilica of St. John got built on top of the burial place of John the Apostle in Selçuk near Ephesus.
5. Who was Rumi and where is his shrine located?
Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi was the greatest Sufi mystic, philosopher and poet and his burial place is located in Konya, Turkey.
Bottom lines
Turkey’s sacred sites are a treasure trove of historical and spiritual significance, offering profound insights into diverse religious traditions and architectural achievements. From ancient temples and early Christian shrines to pivotal Islamic landmarks, these locations reflect the rich cultural tapestry and deep faith that has shaped the country over centuries. Come along with us to these revered sites which provide a unique opportunity to connect with both the historical roots and spiritual heritage of Turkey, making them essential destinations for travelers and pilgrims seeking a deeper understanding of the region’s legacy.
