Konya -Catalhoyuk Tour (3 Days Private)
Konya -Catalhoyuk Tour (3 Days Private)
Embark on an exhilarating journey from Ankara to Konya, a city brimming with history and culture! Day 01 kicks off with a scenic drive from Ankara to Konya, setting the stage for a full day's adventure in this captivating city. Explore the enchanting Mevlana museum Konya, where the mystic poet Rumi's legacy comes alive, and feel the spiritual energy that permeates the air. After a day of immersion in Konya's rich heritage, unwind with an overnight stay in this historic city.
Day 02 promises another action-packed itinerary with a full-day tour of Konya. Dive deeper into the city’s marvels, from its majestic mosques to its vibrant bazaars. Let the stories of the past enchant you as you roam the streets. As the sun sets, enjoy another comfortable overnight stay in Konya, ready for more adventures.
On Day 03, prepare for a fascinating trip to Catalhoyuk, one of the world's oldest and most significant archaeological sites. Walk among the ancient remains of Catalhoyuk houses, imagining life thousands of years ago. After this awe-inspiring visit, it's time to drive back to Ankara, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your incredible journey from Ankara to Konya and Catalhoyuk!
TOUR OVERVIEW (PRIVATE TOUR)
Day 01: Drive to Konya- Full Day Konya Tour-Overnight in Konya
Day 02: Drive to Konya- Full Day Konya Tour-Overnight in Konya
Day 03: Catalhoyuk -Drive back to Ankara
Your adventure from Ankara to Konya spans a picturesque 262 kilometers (163 miles), set to unfold over approximately three hours. This journey gracefully includes time to stretch and enjoy refreshments, with a delightful stop for a coffee break enhancing the experience.
Upon arrival in Konya, the heart of your exploration will commence at The Tomb of Mevlana, a site steeped in spiritual resonance. Here, you’ll visit the Mevlana Museum, a globally revered destination that serves as a spiritual lighthouse for seekers and devotees. This museum provides a window into the profound teachings and life of 13th-century poet and Sufi mystic, Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi. As you draw near, the museum's green dome welcomes you, rising majestically against Konya's skyline.
The museum complex is an oasis of tranquility, with lush gardens embracing the mausoleum, mosque, dervish seminary, exhibition rooms, and libraries. Inside, the atmosphere is rich with intricate details and golden chandeliers that cast a warm glow, offering a meditative respite where one can admire ancient 15th-century Qurans.
Post-lunch, your journey continues to Aladdin Hill. Here, you’ll explore the Aladdin Keykubat Mosque, where history and architectural splendor meet. The discovery continues at the Darul Mulk Museum, followed by the Konya Archaeological Museum, each offering unique insights into the rich tapestry of Anatolian history.
Concluding the day, you'll return to the comfort of your hotel for an overnight stay in the serene city of Konya, imperishably blessed by its heritage.
Our exclusive tour begins as we pick you up from your hotel and set forth to explore the iconic landmarks of Konya. First on the list is the incredible Karatay Madrasa, followed by a visit to the exquisite Ince Minareli Mosque.
Next, we travel to Sille Village, a must-see for history enthusiasts and those who appreciate historical architecture. This village, with its traditional houses and fascinating caves, offers a glimpse into the past. Here, you'll also find the historically significant Aya Eleni Church. Following these explorations, we offer you free time, providing you with the opportunity to uncover Sille's unique charm independently and engage in conversations with the locals.
Sille boasts a rich heritage spanning thousands of years with influences from the Ottomans, Seljuks, Romans, and more. During the early acceptance of Christianity, the local people faced persecution, needing to hide to practice their faith. However, after the acceptance of Christianity by the emperor, religious freedom was restored, marking a significant shift. The emperor herself, upon visiting this ancient site, was impressed by the architectural marvels of homes and temples, which led to the construction of a church.
The village has served as a home for diverse religious communities, including Muslims and Christians, long before the Christian Era—visitors can observe various caves once used as dwellings, churches, and monasteries that played a crucial role in the defense against invasions. Of particular note is the Aya Eleni Church, famed for having been founded by the mother of the first Christian-accepting emperor.
At the conclusion of this insightful journey, we will return you comfortably to your hotel.
Embark on a drive to Çatalhöyük, a remarkable archaeological marvel located in the plains of Konya, just 10 kilometers east of the Çumra District. This breathtaking site marks the dawn of sedentary life, away from mere gathering and hunting towards systematic farming and production activities in prehistoric times. Stretching back an astounding 9,500 years, Çatalhöyük existed as a bustling Neolithic "town" that housed approximately 8,000 inhabitants. In this unique settlement, devoid of traditional streets, people navigated across the rooftops and accessed their homes through openings in the ceilings. The interior walls of these homes tell their stories through beautiful murals, reliefs, and statues, highlighting the residents' artistic excellence.
Çatalhöyük's significant historical value is recognized and protected by the highest jurisdiction as an ancient monument under Turkish Law 2863/1983 on the Protection of Cultural and Natural Heritage, with amendments in 1987 and 2004. Listed on the national inventory in 1981 by the Superior Council for Immovable Antiquities and Monuments, it benefits from local conservation efforts to ensure its preservation.
At the close of your fascinating tour through the echoes of time, you will be comfortably transferred back to Ankara, allowing for reflection on the incredible journey you've just experienced.