WHY TURKEY?
Turkey is a country that provides services at European standards with its modern hospitals, trained manpower, specialist doctors, technological infrastructure and know-how, and the service quality of many private hospitals in the country has been approved by the Joint Commission International (JCI), a world-renowned accreditation organisation. Turkey offers high quality healthcare services at lower costs and without waiting times compared to Europe, USA and other western countries. Pharmackt Health, which undertakes the treatment organisations of people in the field of health tourism, partners in the treatment process of patients and improves its services day by day with the support and directives of the Ministry of Health.
ISTANBUL
Istanbul stands out with its historical and cultural significance, spanning both the Asian and European continents. Notable attractions in the city include Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus. Additionally, Istanbul is renowned for its rich shopping scene, with the Grand Bazaar being a prime example. This historic market offers a wide range of products and a vibrant atmosphere, making the shopping experience unforgettable.
ANKARA
Ankara is the capital of Turkey and the political and administrative centre of the country. Important sites in the city include Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Atatürk, Ankara Castle, a historic fortress, and Atatürk Forest Farm, a complex for agriculture and animal husbandry. These buildings reflect both the historical and cultural importance of Ankara.
ÇATALHÖYÜK
Çatalhöyük is a Neolithic settlement located in the Konya province of Turkey, inhabited between 7500 and 5700 BCE. The people were engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry. The houses were adjacent to each other with entrances through the roofs. In terms of art and culture, wall paintings and figurines of the mother goddess stand out.
GÖBEKLiTEPE
Göbeklitepe is the world's oldest temple complex, dating back to 9600-9500 BCE, located in the Şanlıurfa province of Turkey. It was constructed with large stone pillars and adorned with animal figures. It is one of the earliest examples of the transition to settled life and holds a significant place in archaeological history.
SANTA CLAUS
Saint Nicholas, known as Santa Claus, lived in the city of Demre (Myra) in Turkey between 270-343 AD. He is renowned for helping children and sailors. The Church of Saint Nicholas in Demre is an important pilgrimage site for Christians. The modern figure of Santa Claus is inspired by this historical personality.
NOAH'S ARK
Mount Ararat is considered the place where Noah's Ark came to rest after the flood. This belief is present in both Islamic and Christian traditions. The mountain is located in the eastern part of Turkey and, at 5,137 meters, is the highest peak in the country. Therefore, it is regarded as a site of both religious and cultural significance.
TURKEY: A COUNTRY OF RELIGIOUS SIGNIFICANCE
Turkey has been a meeting point for many religions throughout history. Important centers of religions such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism are located in this land. For Christians, places like Ephesus, where the House of the Virgin Mary is believed to be, and Demre, where Saint Nicholas lived, are of great significance for pilgrimage. Turkey carries the influences of these religions from the Byzantine and Ottoman periods and hosts various religious structures and sacred sites. The country has a rich interfaith cultural heritage with numerous historic churches, mosques, and synagogues.
TURKISH CUISINE
Turkish cuisine is renowned worldwide for its rich and diverse flavors. Among the dishes that attract particular attention from tourists are various types of kebabs, such as Adana kebab and Urfa kebab. Dolma and sarma, made with fillings of grape leaves or vegetables, are traditional dishes. Among desserts, baklava stands out as a sweet made with layers of thin dough and either walnuts or pistachios. Additionally, mezes are essential parts of Turkish cuisine; varieties such as hummus, ezme, and cacık are served both as appetizers and side dishes. Turkish coffee and tea offer a cultural experience with their unique preparation and presentation methods. This broad range demonstrates that Turkish cuisine caters to different tastes, both in sweets and savory dishes.
TURKEY IN A NUTSHELL
Turkey has hosted some of the oldest civilizations in human history, including the Hittites, the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Seljuks, and the Ottoman Empire. The Republic of Turkey was established in 1923 by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Among Turkey's significant natural beauties are the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, the travertine terraces of Pamukkale, the beaches of Antalya, the lush nature of the Black Sea region, and Lake Van. Important structures listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Hagia Sophia, the ancient city of Ephesus, Topkapi Palace, and Göbeklitepe, are located in Turkey. Turkish cuisine is famous for its variety and delicious dishes, including kebabs, stuffed and wrapped vegetables (dolma and sarma), baklava, mezes, and Turkish coffee.
