Time traveling in Türkiye

THE WINDOW framed the blush of a new day as the plane descended into Istanbul.

- By Anna Isabel C. Sobrepeña

THE THEATER in the ancient city of Hierapolis, which was used for public events and ceremonies, featured columns inscribed with historical events and mythology.

Returning to Türkiye for a fourth time did not diminish the enigma and romance of the only country nestled between two continents. Instead, mystery and enchantment were heightened as the itinerary covered a route through a modern skyline into an epoch intimating humanity’s shared past.

Our guide, Huseyin Demir, factored in the transcontinental landmass that contributed to the rich history and cultural heritage. About 3% of Türkiye is located in southeastern Europe while 97% is geographically part of Asia. Waterways separate the small East Thracé or European side from the peninsula of Anatolia which is located in Asia. It was access to these bodies of water as well as the Mediterranean and Aegean seas which supported the development of settlements in the fertile lands. This peninsular country linked Europe and Asia, and even Africa, thereby becoming a crossroads for trade, technologies, and an exchange of cultures.

Besides being a natural resource, the Turkish straits of the Bosporus and Dardanelles were advantageous for naval power. Empires were established and cities flourished. Ruins in Urla, Denizli, Burdur, Antalya, and Side are silent vestiges of the greatness that once was.

ROSE OILS AND TEAS

It was a little over an hour by plane from Istanbul to Izmir, one of the oldest prehistoric cities that flourished through the centuries and remains a thriving metropolis. This was apparent upon arrival at the Izmir Adnan Menderes International Airport, a modern structure with vaulted roofs, indoor gardens, and natural lighting. The facility served 11.5 million passengers in 2024 and has direct rail transit to the urban center.