Gaziantep Guide

About Gaziantep

Gaziantep: A Timeless City of History, Culture, and Culinary Delights

🏛️ Gaziantep, located in southeastern Turkey, is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Its rich history spans from the Bronze Age to the present day, making it a cultural and historical treasure trove.

📜 The city’s original name, ‘Antep,’ closely resembles its modern name. It is believed that Gaziantep was once a settlement during the Yamhad Era, and some scholars connect it to Antiochia ad Taurum, a Hellenistic city mentioned in ancient texts.

A City Shaped by Empires & Civilizations

🏺 Ancient & Hellenistic Periods

• Gaziantep’s history dates back thousands of years, with possible connections to the Hittites and Hellenistic peoples.

⚔️ Medieval & Islamic Conquests

• The city was conquered by Levantine Muslim forces, before becoming part of the Umayyad and later Abbasid Caliphates.
• During the Byzantine-Arab wars, the city was attacked and reclaimed multiple times.
• The Anatolian Seljuks captured it in 1067, later transferring it to the Syrian Seljuks just 20 years later.

🏰 Crusader & Seljuk Conflicts

• In 1098, the Crusaders captured the city, but their control lasted only until 1150, when the Seljuks of Rum reclaimed it.
• The city later shifted between the Armenian Kingdom and the Seljuks before the rise of the Ottoman Empire.

🕌 Ottoman Era & Modernization

• In 1516, the Ottomans took control of Gaziantep, ushering in an era of growth, prosperity, and modernization.
• After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Gaziantep played a critical role in Turkey’s War of Independence, earning the title “Gazi” (meaning “veteran”) for its heroic resistance against French forces.

Must-Visit Places in Gaziantep

🏛️ Zeugma Mosaic Museum

• Home to some of the world’s most breathtaking ancient mosaics, many of which date back to the Byzantine period.
• The museum protects mosaics from the ancient city of Zeugma, displaying intricate depictions of classical clothing, musical instruments, and mythological scenes.

🏺 Zeugma Ancient Site

• The ruins of the once-prosperous Greco-Roman city of Zeugma, known for its fine arts and exquisite stone masonry.
• Originally, it was one of two cities divided by the Euphrates River, but wars and natural disasters led to its abandonment.

🏰 Gaziantep Citadel

• Located in the heart of the city, this ancient fortress symbolizes Gaziantep’s strength and resilience.
• The military architecture blends beauty and function, making it one of the most iconic landmarks in the region.

🛍️ Bazaars & Traditional Markets

• Elmaci Bazaar & Coppersmith Bazaar – These vibrant marketplaces maintain centuries-old traditions, where locals and visitors can find spices, handmade copper crafts, textiles, and more.

Why Visit Gaziantep?

✨ Gaziantep offers an unforgettable experience, blending history, culture, and some of the best cuisine in Turkey.
🍽️ Famous for its rich food culture, Gaziantep is home to the world-renowned Gaziantep baklava and countless authentic Turkish dishes.
📸 Its well-preserved historic sites, bustling markets, and modern museums make it an exciting destination for history lovers and adventure seekers alike.

🚀 Explore Gaziantep with Alaturca and discover the wonders of this ancient city firsthand!