Car Rental Konya
Konya is the largest province and the 7th most populous city in Turkey. It is also considered one of the oldest settlements. The city has hosted important civilizations and produced names such as Mevlana, making it a city with a rich historical and religious background. The meaning of the city's name comes from a monument. The Ikonion monument erected in the city was later evolved into the name Konya.
Konya, where settlement existed in the Neolithic period, has a history that dates back to 5500 BC. It has hosted different cultures such as Hittites, Phrygians, Cimmerians, Persians, Romans, Arabs, and Turks. It was taken under Ottoman sovereignty by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1465. It became the capital of the Karaman province in 1470. It was briefly occupied by Italy under the armistice of Mudros and was liberated from the occupation on March 20, 1920. Konya, also known as the Land of Hearts, is a historical city with its madrasas, complexes, inns, and many other structures. It is also the cradle of natural beauties with its lakes, forests, and water sources.
Historical Places in Konya
Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi is one of the most special figures produced by this land, whose reputation has gone beyond the country's borders. In Konya, the city where he lived, we come across many structures to commemorate and honor his name. Mevlana Mausoleum is the most important place because it contains his tomb. The mausoleum, which was opened to visitors in 1926, can be visited for free every weekday. Mevlana's personal belongings and structures from the Ottoman era can also be found in the mausoleum.
Karatay Madrasah, located in Konya's Karatay district, has survived from the Seljuk period to the present day. It is one-story and has some of the most beautiful examples of ceramic art. Among the mosques that must be visited are Sultan Selim Mosque, Kadı Mürsel Mosque, Şemsi Tebrizi Mosque and Tomb, Kapu Mosque, Aziziye Mosque, and Eşrefoğlu Mosque. Although the Konya Selimiye Mosque is closed for restoration works, it is still a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture and its exterior appearance is enough to impress visitors.
Once again, Konya's religiously significant tombs should also be added to the visit list. In addition to the Mevlana Tomb, the Pir Sultan Abdal Tomb, Tavsubaba Tomb, Sultanlar Tomb, and Nasrettin Hoca Tomb are all of interest to visitors. Konya is an important city for Christians as well as Muslims, with Aya Elena Church and Ak Monastery being must-visit cultural sites. Another historic site is the Kilistra Ancient City in the Gökyurt village of Meram district, which was constructed by carving into rocks and resembles the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia.
The Ince Minaret Medrese, also dating back to the Seljuk period, is an architectural beauty located within the borders of the Seljuk Empire and includes the Stone and Wood Works Museum. Imagine a village where caves and churches coexist. Sille Village, dating back to before the Great Seljuk Empire, offers a true sense of travelling back in time. After all of these cultural tours, it would be remiss not to visit one of the city's important symbols, Nasreddin Hoca. Finally, the Nasreddin Hoca Tomb is another must-visit location.
Natural Beauties of Konya
Konya is not only known for its historical sites but also for its natural beauties. The first thing that comes to mind is the unique beauty and scenery of Tuz Golu (Salt Lake). Tuz Golu is located in the borders of Ankara, Konya, and Aksaray, but it is a must-see and a must-take selfie place while exploring Konya. Another breathtaking natural beauty is Yerkopru Waterfall. If you want to take a dip in the waterfall, don't forget to bring your towel.
Due to Konya's geographical structure and topographical features, sinkholes are formed frequently. The water sources developed in these sinkholes create a visual feast. The most famous of these is Kizoren Obruk Lake. Meke, which is a crater lake formed by the filling of a volcano with water, is also a natural beauty that you should add to your list. Besides all of these water sources, don't leave Konya without visiting Karapinar Desert, the only desert in Turkey. Being in a desert in a country like Turkey will make you feel like you are in a different country.
What to Eat and Drink in Konya
Konya, known for its rich cuisine, has a must-try dish called etli ekmek, a delicious bread with meat topping. Although this dish can be found in other cities, the best one can only be tasted in Konya. Another traditional dish worth trying is bamyası çorbası, a soup made with dried okra.
How to Get to Konya
Konya is the largest city in terms of area and the seventh most populous city in Turkey. It is bordered by Ankara, Niğde, Eskişehir, Afyon, Antalya, Niğde, Mersin, and Aksaray. It is easily accessible from any city in the Central Anatolian region. It takes approximately 3 hours by car from Ankara and 8 hours from Istanbul. Alternatively, a train journey from Istanbul takes around 4.5 hours, while from Ankara it takes over 1.5 hours. The Toros Express, which stops at Adana, Mersin, Niğde, Konya, and Karaman, is another transportation option. Konya Airport is another option, with direct flights from Istanbul taking 1 hour and 15 minutes. Although there are no direct flights from abroad, connecting flights are available from Istanbul and Ankara. As for the sweets, sacarası, kaygana tatlısı, and topalak are some of the regional desserts worth trying. Don't forget to burn off the calories after indulging in these delicious dishes!
