This gallery is a collection of images taken during a 2006 bus tour through Western and Central Turkey (Anatolia). The tour introduced us to a broad slice of this modern Muslim country's culture and its rich history.
The historical sites stretch as far back as 2500 BCE to the Hittite empire and continue forward in time through the Greek (Hellenistic), Roman, Bizantine, Ottoman, and modern Turks legacy on this fascinating landscape. Many of the worlds best preserved ancient ruins are in Anatolia and are scattered in a way to help prevent the curious tourist any rest from sightseeing!
The center of the country - Cappadocia - is a geologic oddity of volcanic tuff and basalt fields that have eroded into some of the most bizarre formations on earth. Moreover, the early Christians and preceeding people used this concrete-like rock to carve out temples, homes, and even underground cities.
Even with all the fascinating history and amazing geology, the people have left the longest lasting impression on me. There is no shortage of kind and welcoming people in this place and certainly a people as interested in us (tourists) as we were in them.
I hope you enjoy what I have to share...
