First Map In History
Introduction
Welcome to the First Map In History travel guide, where we will take you on a journey through the world’s oldest known map. This map, dating back to 6200 BC, depicts the region of Çatalhöyük in modern-day Turkey. Our guide will cover all the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that you can experience in this fascinating region.
Top Attractions
Çatalhöyük
The main attraction of the region is the ancient city of Çatalhöyük, which is believed to be one of the oldest human settlements in the world. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the city and learn about the daily life of its inhabitants over 9000 years ago.
Konya
Konya, the capital of the Seljuk Empire, is another must-visit destination in the region. It is home to the Mevlana Museum, which houses the tomb of the famous poet and philosopher Rumi.
Pamukkale
Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle,” is a natural wonder that features terraced hot springs and travertine formations. Visitors can take a dip in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy the stunning views.
Hidden Gems
Yazılıkaya
Yazılıkaya is a lesser-known site that is worth a visit. It is an ancient Hittite sanctuary that features rock-cut reliefs of deities and mythological figures.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a region famous for its unique landscape of fairy chimneys and underground cities. It is a great destination for hiking, hot air balloon rides, and exploring ancient cave dwellings.
Food Scene
The food scene in the region is a delicious blend of Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine. Must-try dishes include kebabs, börek, and baklava. Visitors can also sample local specialties such as manti, a type of Turkish dumpling, and gözleme, a savory pancake filled with cheese and spinach.
Budget-Friendly Tips
The region is generally affordable, but there are a few tips to keep in mind to save money. Consider staying in a guesthouse or hostel instead of a hotel, take public transportation instead of taxis, and eat at local markets and street vendors instead of restaurants.
Outdoor Adventures
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and hot air balloon rides. Visitors can also go rafting on the Köprüçay River or take a Jeep safari through the Taurus Mountains.
Historical Landmarks
In addition to Çatalhöyük and Konya, the region is home to many other historical landmarks, including the ancient city of Sagalassos and the Roman theater in Aspendos.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family-friendly activities in the region, such as visiting the Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden or the Antalya Aquarium. Families can also enjoy a day at the beach or take a boat tour along the coast.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for unique experiences, consider visiting the town of Beypazarı, known for its Ottoman architecture and traditional handicrafts. Another option is to explore the underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı.
Natural Wonders
In addition to Pamukkale, the region is home to other natural wonders such as the Düden Waterfalls and the Köprülü Canyon National Park.
Vibrant Nightlife
The region has a lively nightlife scene, especially in the coastal cities of Antalya and Alanya. Visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and cocktails at the many bars and clubs.
Local Markets
Visiting local markets is a great way to experience the region’s culture and cuisine. The markets in Konya and Antalya are especially vibrant, with a wide variety of spices, fruits, and vegetables on offer.
Beaches and Mountains
The region has a beautiful coastline with many beaches to choose from, including the popular Lara Beach and Konyaaltı Beach. Visitors can also explore the Taurus Mountains and go skiing or snowboarding in the winter.
Cultural Immersion
Immerse yourself in the region’s culture by learning about the traditional handicrafts such as carpet weaving and pottery-making. Visitors can also attend a Whirling Dervishes ceremony or participate in a Turkish cooking class.
Art and Music Scene
The region has a rich tradition of music and art, with many festivals and events throughout the year. The Konya International Mystic Music Festival and the Antalya International Film Festival are two of the most popular events.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the region’s cities and historical sites. Some popular tours include the Konya City Tour and the Antalya Old Town Walking Tour.
Architectural Marvels
The region is home to many architectural marvels, such as the Selimiye Mosque in Konya and the Hadrian’s Gate in Antalya.
Historical Sites
In addition to Çatalhöyük and Konya, the region has many other historical sites to explore, such as the ancient city of Perge and the Hellenistic theater in Termessos.
Biking Routes
The region has many scenic biking routes, such as the Konya-Beyşehir Lake route and the Antalya-Kemer route.
Wellness Retreats
The region has many wellness retreats where visitors can relax and rejuvenate. Some popular options include the Dharma Shala Yoga Retreat in Alanya and the Kapadokya Yoga Retreat in Cappadocia.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, the region offers many adventure sports such as paragliding, bungee jumping, and ziplining.
Conclusion
The First Map In History region has something for everyone, from ancient history to outdoor adventures to cultural immersion. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to explore this fascinating region and discover its many treasures.