Ancient & Ottoman

Since ancient times the history of Turkey has been linked to the dominant Empires of the region. The Byzantine and Ottoman capital was, of course, that unique multi-layered city with a foot in both Europe and Asia, known in turn as Byzantium, Constantinople and Istanbul. Istanbul reveals its heritage in sublime Ottoman mosques, Byzantine churches, magnificent palaces and bustling bazaars. Indeed, Istanbul, already a city of wonder and beauty, fascinating history, ancient cultures and vibrant arts was declared ‘European Capital of Culture 2010’.

Ancient Ephesus, facing to Europe, was a key city for the Greeks and Romans and is one of the world’s best-preserved ancient sites. Before coming under the Ottoman Empire, the west coast of Asia Minor was a major centre of classical civilisations: the Greek Ionian League of 12 cities founded about 1000 BC included Ephesus and Miletus; the rich King Croesus of Lydia established a capital at Sardis near Izmir which was later overtaken by the Persians; Alexander the Great drove out the Persians and re-established Hellenistic influence until the Romans took control, establishing Ephesus as their chief Aegean port. Classical times are further explored at the Agora and museum of Izmir, formerly Smyrna and the birthplace of Homer.