Turkey’s Lesser-known Heritage Landmarks

 

Turkey, located at the crossroads of two continents, is home to a plethora of magnificent attractions that undoubtedly deserve the praise they receive. But have you visited some of its equally remarkable, if not famous,attractions near its towns that exude mystery and mystique? Let's see what they are:

 

Pluto’s Gate

 

Pluto's Gate, also known as Ploutonion and Plutonium in Greek and Latin, emerged from the crumbling ruins of Hierapolis as a mystical gateway to the underworld. This 'gate to hell' was discovered two years after an archaeology professor from the University of Salento unearthed the tomb of one of Jesus Christ's twelve apostles at the same site. Pluto’s Gate exudes as much enigma now as it did back then, but it breathes harmful vapors that have been proven to be fatal to small animals and birds. As such, tourists too must exercise caution when approaching this gate. 

 

Asitane Restaurant

 

Although it is not a heritage landmark, Asitane deserves to be included on this list because it works to preserve the Ottoman Empire's glorious culinary heritage. This is one of the many restaurants and cafes near Istanbul's historic core that must be visited. The menu at Asitane was created after extensive research into ancient recipes and feasts served at Ottoman palaces. Its palace cuisine is famous for dishes like Hums lokması, or the humble yet iconic hummus, a delectable saffron rice pilau, and even iftar specials perfected by Asitane's chefs over the years. All of this is served in an elegant space opposite the old Chora Museum.

Ani Ghost City

 

At the crossroads of Turkey and Armenia, this ghost town with its crumbling ruins paints a desolate picture against the stark blue skies and open landscapes. Ani was once known as the 'City of 1001 Churches,' its coveted location on the trade route distinguishing it from less sophisticated towns that couldn't compete with its magnificent architecture. Its riches drew many people to its doorstep, and at its peak, it had a population of well over 100,000 people. However, its prosperity was short-lived.

 

In the 17th century, a change in trade routes caused the city to be neglected and, as a result, abandoned. Despite its abject downfall, Ani was recognized for its heritage greatness, as evidenced by the numerous churches that dot its landscape. Amid its dusty terrain, one can spot an arsenal of monuments today, most of which are made of volcanic basalt in various colors such as amber and rose.

 

Cave of Zeus

 

This mystical cave, hidden in plain sight on the outskirts of a national park, is at the heart of a storied Greek legend. The cave was apparently Zeus's secret hideaway, where he would frequently seek refuge. It is debatable whether he did so to avoid the wrath of his brother Poseidon or to conceal his amorous conquests from his sister-wife Hera. The cave, illuminated in a soft blue light reflected by a cool subterranean pool, can be accessed by a stone pathway.

 

Author Name
Advaita Raut