Unveiling Treasures Of Şanlıurfa — Türkiye

GUNAYDIN! If you're reading this article, I want you to picture yourself in a bustling airport, the excitement palpable in the air. We're about to board Turkish Airlines Flight 0759, a magical carpet ready to transport us to the captivating realm of Türkiye. Our destination? None other than the spellbinding city of Şanlıurfa, where culture, art, beauty, and centuries of history await your eager exploration. So fasten your seatbelts, for this tale is about to take flight into the heart of Türkiye.

LAND OF BEAUTIFUL HUES — ŞANLIURFA

In a world where time weaves its tapestry across millennia, there exists a place where history itself seems to have taken root and sprouted into vibrant tales. Imagine a land where ancient prophets walked, where the first stones of civilisation were laid and where the very earth breathes with the echoes of centuries past. This is a place where time dances to the rhythm of tradition and spirituality. Welcome to Şanlıurfa, a city that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the birth of legends, and the forging of cultures. The city's historical treasures, such as Göbekli Tepe, one of the world's oldest known temples, draw archaeologists and history enthusiasts from around the globe. Şanlıurfa, a place, where the past meets the present, offers an unforgettable journey through time. As I ventured through this ancient city, I absorbed a wealth of knowledge and insights that enriched my journey.

BALIKLIGÖL'S ENIGMATIC CHARM

Nestled within the heart of Şanlıurfa, the ancient city steeped in history, lies a place of mystical allure and profound significance - Balıklıgöl. This sacred pool, known as the "Pool of Sacred Fish," is more than just a serene body of water; it's a reservoir of faith and natural wonder.

As I approached Balıklıgöl, the air seemed to hum with an otherworldly energy. The sun's warm embrace bathed the surroundings in a golden glow, creating an ethereal atmosphere. I joined the mesmerised visitors who gathered around the pool's edge, drawn by tales as old as time itself.

Balıklıgöl, with its shimmering waters and enigmatic aura, offers visitors more than just a historical anecdote. The surroundings are adorned with lush gardens, creating a serene oasis in the heart of the bustling city. As I strolled along the cobbled pathways, I couldn't help but notice the harmonious coexistence of the sacred fish and the vibrant avian life that frequents the area.

The pool's tranquil ambiance invites contemplation and introspection. It's a place where locals and tourists alike come to seek solace, make wishes, and send their hopes and dreams adrift on the gentle ripples. The tranquil sound of water flowing from the nearby Rızvaniye Mosque's fountains adds to the soothing atmosphere.

TIMELESS MARVEL — GÜMRÜK HANI

If you're travelling to Şanlıurfa don't miss out on visiting Gümrük Hanı, a resplendent jewel, an unwavering sentinel of the city's captivating past and enduring charm. This architectural gem, a timeless relic of the Silk Road, beckons travellers with its grandeur and mystique.

Passing beneath the age-worn archway, I travelled through the annals of time. Gümrük Hanı's awe-inspiring courtyard exuded an aura of majestic sophistication. Sunbeams filtered through the filigree lattice windows, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow upon the polished cobblestones.

Gümrük Hanı has borne witness to countless caravans, its timeworn walls echoing the tales of bustling trade and adventurous sojourns. As I savoured fragrant Menengiç Coffee within one of the charming courtyards, I couldn't help but marvel at the ageless splendour of Gümrük Hanı.

A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME AND STONE — GÖBEKLITEPE

Göbeklitepe, a name that resonates through the ages, is an archaeological marvel. Located approximately 12 kilometre northeast of Şanlıurfa,this extraordinary site is situated on the Germuş mountain range.

As I approached Göbeklitepe, the landscape seemed to yield its secrets, shrouding this ancient sanctuary in an air of mystique. The massive stone pillars, some reaching up to 16 feet in height, loomed like sentinels of a forgotten era. Each one, intricately adorned with exquisite carvings of animals and symbols, told a story etched in time.

Walking among these megaliths, I marvelled at the precision with which they were arranged. Göbeklitepe was not just a gathering place; it was a celestial observatory. Göbeklitepe challenges our understanding of human evolution and spirituality, inviting us to ponder the depths of our shared history.

In the shadow of these monolithic marvels, I couldn't help but contemplate the enduring mysteries of our past.

BLACK ROSES AND HISTORY BENEATH

Situated approximately 100 kilometers downstream from Şanlıurfa, where time seems to stand still, lies the enchanting village of Halfeti. This picturesque hamlet, once submerged beneath the tranquil waters of the Euphrates River, has emerged as a hidden gem for intrepid travellers seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

As the Euphrates meanders through this timeless landscape, it bestows upon Halfeti an otherworldly charm. The village is renowned for its distinctive black roses, a rare botanical wonder found in the surrounding gardens. These roses, unlike any other, bloom in shades of deep maroon and crimson, adding an ethereal touch to the village's already captivating scenery.

Halfeti's skyline is a breathtaking juxtaposition of ancient Ottoman architecture and the remnants of homes that were partially submerged when the Birecik Dam was constructed in the 1990s. The resulting contrast creates a surreal atmosphere, making it a photographer's paradise.

A yacht ride along the Euphrates is an immersive experience, allowing travellers to witness the sunken village beneath the crystal-clear waters.

Halfeti, with its rich history and natural wonders, remains an unparalleled destination for those seeking solace in the embrace of untouched beauty.

From the enigmatic charm of Balıklıgöl, where ancient tales echo in tranquil waters, to the timeless grandeur of Gümrük Hanı, a sentinel of history, and the archaeological wonder of Göbeklitepe, my adventure has been a tapestry woven with wonder. In this city where past and present harmonise, I've glimpsed the threads that bind us to the tapestry of history. Until we meet again, Şanlıurfa, may your stories continue to inspire wanderers through time.

• Business Technology Review