Travel Guide to Konya, Turkey

Konya is one of the oldest towns in the world. Here you can see ancient monuments and architectural sights that are kept in a great state, visit best eastern markets, see wonderful temples and mosques.

Since ancient times local people have been respecting the traditions of their predecessors, so this place can be distinguished by unique mild atmosphere that covers guests of Konya with warmth and coziness. According to a legend, Konya was the first town the building of which has started right after the Flood. This happened in the 8th century BC. The name of this place is connected with another legend. According to it a courageous warrior Perseus killed the dragon that had lived on the land at that time. This way the hero freed the way to first inhabitants of Konya. The people made a huge obelisk of Perseus to thank him for his help. At that time such huge monuments were called eikon, so initially the city was called Iconium. However, through years the name’s pronunciation has changed, transforming into Konya.

The city has been always considered the center of religion and culture. Here lived famous masters who worked with stone and wood. Konya was also the place where were created best hand-made carpets in Turkey. Each year here takes place a carpet exhibition. This is another proof of careful keeping of ancient conventions. Konya has also been chosen the place of conducting of Violent Whirling Dervishes Festival devoted to the memory of the ancient religious order. During several days the town is filled with magnetic music and its inhabitants dance and sing. This grandiose event attracts numerous visitors year after year.

The suburbs of this place are no less interesting. You can make an excursion to one of the oldest villages that is called Çatal Hüyük. The locals consider this settlement a place of power. The suburbs of the village are full of nature reserves, the walk of which will leave simply unforgettable memories. Picturesque grottos, noisy waterfalls and birds singing – this is a true piece of paradise.