Facts About Turkey

Did you know that Turkey…

is known as the Cradle of Civilization
borders three major seas (Black, Aegean, Mediterranean)
was known as Asia Minor (Anatolia)
is where the first Human Rights Declaration was stated in1463
is where Alexander the Great cut the Gordian knot
is the birthplace of King Midas
has 70% of the population under 35
is where the train the Orient Express was destined
was the center of two empires (Byzantine and Ottoman)
provides the world with 70% of it’s hazelnuts
has a 650 year old shopping mall with 65 streets and 3500 shops
is the birthplace of Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus)
became a modern republic in 1923
is where Noah’s Ark landed
witnessed the first international treaty in 1284 B.C.
is where the world famous Iznik tiles originated
had two of the Seven Wonders of the World
has historical relics pertaining to three of the world’s major religions (Judaism, Christianity, Islam)
has the world’s most valuable silk carpet
provided water to the Garden of Eden from the Euphrates and Tigris
is the birthplace of the Apostle Paul
is where the Jews found refuge during the Inquisition in Europe
is the location of Troy where the Trojan wars were fought
had the world’s first Supreme Court woman judge
is a member of the UN since 1945
is one of few places where you can

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Ephesus: Ancient and Modern

As an ancient city Ephesus was preferred by many Romans as the dwelling place of choice, even above Rome.  Today Selcuk-Ephesus is a retirement city for Turks and has a farming community.

Ancient Ephesus was the largest city in Roman Asia and one of the largest in that era.  Today Selcuk-Ephesus is smaller than the many neighboring seaside resorts, but more frequented by tourists.

Ancient Ephesus had the greatest wonder of the Seven Wonders of the World, The Temple of Diana/Artemis.  Today Selcuk-Ephesus has the house of the Virgin Mary according to the Roman Catholic Church.

Ancient Ephesus had the Apostle John’s Tomb and St. John’s Basilica.  Modern Selcuk-Ephesus continues to be a pilgrimage site for Christians.

Ancient Ephesus was a center for learning.  Today Selcuk-Ephesus is a center for historical-archeological studies.

Ancient Ephesus was a cosmopolitan port town where new ideas were exchanged.  Modern Selcuk-Ephesus is a popular destination for cruise ships and tourists from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Ancient Ephesus was noted for gladiatorial combat and sports.  Today Selcuk-Ephesus has water sports, beach, camel wrestling, and is near to the yet to be opened international golf course.

Ancient

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