Gaziantep, Turkey

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Gaziantep, Turkey

Region: Gaziantep is located in the Gaziantep province


Geographic Coordinates: 37.062800, 37.379200
Temperature Range: -20.0°C to 40.0°C (-4°F to 104°F)
Climate: Varied.
Population: 2028563
Language: Turkish

Gaziantep, Situated in the southeastern region of Turkey, Is a city with a rich history, Culture and cuisine. The city has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and has been ruled by various empires including the Hittites, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans. Its location on the Silk Road made it an important center for trade and commerce. One of Gaziantep’s most remarkable features is its well-preserved old town district with narrow streets lined with traditional houses made of stone or adobe bricks adorned with intricate carvings.

The old bazaar (Kaleici) is a maze of alleyways filled with shops selling everything from spices to textiles to handmade copperware. Gaziantep also boasts several impressive museums showcasing its rich cultural heritage including the Zeugma Mosaic Museum which houses some of the world’s finest Roman mosaics discovered during excavations at Zeugma. The Gaziantep Museum of Archaeology displays artifacts from various periods including prehistoric times up until Ottoman rule.

The city’s culinary scene is renowned throughout Turkey for its delicious kebabs and baklava made from local ingredients such as pistachios, Bulgur wheat and lamb combined with flavors influenced by Arab and Armenian cuisines. Visitors can sample these delicacies at one of many restaurants or street vendors scattered throughout the city. Another must-visit attraction in Gaziantep is Gazikent Kalesi, An ancient fortress overlooking the city center offering stunning views over both modern-day Gaziantep as well as its ancient past.

For those interested in outdoor activities, There are several parks within easy reach including Yesilvadi Park which boasts a large lake surrounded by gardens and picnic areas. The city also has a modern sports complex hosting football matches and other events. Gaziantep offers visitors a unique blend of history, Culture and cuisine making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins or trying new culinary delights, There is something for everyone in this vibrant Turkish city.



Important Landmarks

  1. Gaziantep Castle
  2. Zeugma Mosaic Museum
  3. Gaziantep City Museum
  4. Bakircilar Bazaar
  5. Hasan Suzer Ethnography Museum
  6. Zincirli Bedesten (Historic Marketplace)
  7. Imam Cagdas Antakya Mosque
  8. Yesemek Open Air Museum
  9. Medusa Glassware and Art Gallery
  10. Tahmis Coffeehouse

Primary Industries

  1. Gaziantep, Turkey boasts a diverse economy with various thriving industries.
  2. The textile industry is one of the largest manufacturing centers in Turkey and produces a wide range of textiles such as carpets and clothing.
  3. The city is also renowned for its culinary traditions, which has led to a thriving food industry producing baklava, pistachios, spices, and other food products.
  4. Gaziantep’s strategic location along major transportation routes between Europe and Asia has contributed to significant growth in the construction industry.
  5. There is a growing automotive sector with several large manufacturers producing vehicles and parts.
  6. Several chemical companies operating in Gaziantep produce chemicals used in various applications such as agriculture and construction materials.
  7. The city’s rich history and cultural heritage have also made it an attractive tourist destination that attracts many visitors every year who come to explore historical sites like the Zeugma Mosaic Museum or taste local cuisine at one of the many restaurants around town.
  8. Gaziantep has a well-developed health services sector with several hospitals providing advanced medical care to patients from all over Turkey and abroad.

Noteable History

  1. The Battle of Gaziantep: This was a significant battle during the Turkish War of Independence in 1920-1921, where Turkish forces successfully defended the city against French occupation.
  2. Zeugma Mosaic Museum: This museum houses some of the world’s most impressive Roman mosaics, discovered during archaeological excavations in Zeugma, an ancient city near Gaziantep.
  3. Şahinbey Mosque: This mosque is one of the largest and most beautiful Ottoman-era mosques in Turkey, built in the early 18th century by Şahin Bey.
  4. Karacaoğlan: He was a famous Turkish folk poet who lived in Gaziantep during the 17th century and wrote many poems about love, nature, and social issues.
  5. Baklavas: Gaziantep is known for its delicious baklavas which are considered to be some of the best in Turkey. These sweet pastries are made with layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts and syrup.
  6. Hasan Suçaklıoğlu: He was a prominent politician from Gaziantep who served as Minister of Finance under several different governments between 1987-2002.
  7. Emine Göğüş: She was an Olympic gold medalist from Gaziantep who won first place in women’s wrestling at the 2004 Athens Olympics.
  8. İbrahim Çelikkol: He is a well-known actor from Gaziantep who has appeared in many popular TV shows and movies throughout Turkey.
  9. Tarihi Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Historic Copper Bazaar): It is one of Turkey’s largest copper bazaars that dates back to Ottoman times.
  10. Gazimuhtarpaşa Hamamı (Gazimuhtarpaşa Bath): It is one of the oldest and largest Turkish baths in Gaziantep, built during the Ottoman era.

Museums and Things To See

  1. Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum is a must-visit for those who appreciate Roman mosaics.
  2. Offering breathtaking views of the city, Gaziantep Castle is a testament to the region’s rich history.
  3. Bakircilar Bazaar is an ideal place to find handmade goods, including copperware and textiles.
  4. The Hasan Suzer Ethnography Museum provides insight into traditional Turkish culture through exhibits on food, clothing, and daily life.
  5. Emine Gogus Culinary Museum celebrates Turkey’s culinary arts in a unique way.
  6. The Gaziantep War Museum recounts the city’s crucial role in Turkey’s War of Independence.
  7. Kurtulus Mosque boasts stunning tile work and architecture that make it one of the most beautiful mosques in Gaziantep.
  8. Zincirli Bedesten Covered Bazaar sells everything from spices to jewelry in its historic covered marketplace.
  9. Kilis Gate (Kilis Kapisi) served as an entrance to the city during Ottoman times and remains a fascinating piece of history today.
  10. Tahmis Coffeehouse (Tahmis Kahvesi) offers visitors traditional Turkish coffee amidst stunning views of historic architecture throughout the city.


Sports Teams

  1. Gaziantepspor: Founded in 1969, Gaziantepspor is the most famous football club in the city. The team has played in the Turkish Super League for many years and has a loyal fan base.
  2. Gazikentspor: This football club was founded in 1957 and has competed at various levels of Turkish football over the years.
  3. Gaziantep Basketbol: This basketball team was established in 2015 and competes in the Turkish Basketball League.
  4. Gaziantep Büyükşehir Belediyespor: This multi-sport club was founded in 1988 and includes teams for basketball, volleyball, handball, wrestling, boxing, and more.

Overall, sports have played an important role in the culture of Gaziantep for many years with a strong emphasis on football (soccer).



Cultural Events

  1. The Gaziantep International Film Festival is an annual event that showcases both local and international films, attracting filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts from all over the world.
  2. The Gaziantep Gastronomy Festival is a celebration of the city’s rich culinary heritage with cooking demonstrations, food tastings, and competitions.
  3. The Zeugma Mosaic Museum Cultural Festival takes place in the ancient city of Zeugma and features traditional music performances, dance shows, and art exhibitions.
  4. During the holy month of Ramadan in Gaziantep, there are festive lights throughout the city as well as special prayers at mosques. Charity events also take place to feed those in need.
  5. The Ekinoks Cultural Festival is held annually during spring equinox in March to celebrate springtime with traditional music performances by local artists.
  6. The International Antep Baklava Festival brings together baklava makers from all over Turkey to compete for top honors in making this sweet pastry dessert originating from Gaziantep.
  7. Kurban Bayrami (Eid al-Adha) is one of two major Islamic festivals celebrated worldwide each year where Muslims sacrifice an animal as a symbol of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son for Allah’s sake.
  8. The Toy Fair is an annual children’s toy fair where toy manufacturers showcase their latest products at affordable prices.

Cuisine

  • Baklava: Gaziantep is known for its baklava, which comprises layers of thin pastry filled with pistachios and honey syrup.
  • Kebabs: There are several types of kebabs available in Gaziantep, such as lamb shish kebab, adana kebab (spicy minced meat), and beyti kebab (meat wrapped in lavash bread).
  • Lahmacun: A thin crust topped with minced meat, vegetables, herbs, and spices.
  • Katmer: A pastry made with layers of dough filled with pistachios or clotted cream.
  • Şıllık: A dessert made from a type of dough that is fried then soaked in sweet syrup.

Some popular restaurants to try these dishes include:

  1. Imam Çağdaş Restaurant
  2. Bayram Usta Kebapçısı
  3. İmam Çağdaş Baklavacısı
  4. Tahmis Kahvesi
  5. Kebapçı Halil Usta

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