​ 

Independent travel and view of the city of Gaziantep!

 

History of Gaziantep Town

Gaziantep is a historic city located in southeastern Turkey, in the Middle Anatolia region. The modern name of the city comes from the Turkish word "gazi", which means "hero" or "conqueror", and the word "antepli", which means belonging to the city. Gaziantep is often also called Antep.

The history of Gaziantep goes back several millennia. The region was inhabited in antiquity, and archaeological finds indicate that there were settlements here in the Bronze Age. The city also had its place in Assyrian, Persian, Greek and Roman history.

In the Middle Ages, Gaziantep played an important role in Silk Road trade, connecting East and West. In the XIII century, the city was conquered by the Mongols, and then it became part of the Ottoman Empire in the XV century under the rule of Sultan Bayazid I.

The golden age for Gaziantep came in the XVI-XVII centuries, when the city became known for its production and export of goods from silk, leather and spices. During this period, many of its historical monuments, such as mosques, caravanserai and residential buildings, were built, which create a unique architectural appearance of the city.

In 1921, during the Turkish War of Independence, the city became an arena for fighting between Turkish nationalists and French troops. After the victory of the Turkish nationalists, Gaziantep became part of the new Turkish Republic.

Today, Gaziantep is a large Turkish city with a population of more than a million people. The city is famous for its historical monuments, such as the Gaziantep Castle, which was built in Roman times and rebuilt in the Byzantine era, as well as many mosques and cultural attractions. Gaziantep is also known for its rich cultural tradition, including culinary treats and local craft production such as carpet making and copper utensils.

 

 

Interesting places for entertainment in Gaziantep

Gaziantep is a magical city that easily fascinates with its rich history, cultural heritage and unique color. Here are a few aspects that can attract travelers and tourists to this amazing corner of Turkey:

1. Historical riches: Gaziantep radiates the atmosphere of an ancient oriental city full of history and secrets. Explore the ancient mosques, caravanserai and castle, which will tell you a lot about the development of the city over the centuries.
2. Architectural heritage: The unique architecture of Gaziantep attracts attention. Exquisite houses with wooden windows and narrow streets create the atmosphere of the ancient East. A visit to traditional bazaars and craft workshops will add color to your experience.
3. Culinary art: Gaziantep is famous for its unique cuisine. Dishes with spices, meat delicacies and sweet treats will be a real discovery for gourmets. Visit local restaurants and cafes to enjoy authentic oriental flavors.
4. Local traditions: Immersion in local traditions and customs will help you better understand Turkish culture. Participate in festivals, master classes and cultural events to experience the real atmosphere of the city.
5. Crafts: Gaziantep is famous for its craft production, including the manufacture of carpets and copper utensils. A visit to workshops and shops where these unique products are presented will be a unique experience for lovers of authentic souvenirs.
6. Local hospitality: Gaziantep residents are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Travelers often celebrate the warm welcome and willingness of locals to share their culture and traditions.

All these elements together create a unique atmosphere that will make a visit to Gaziantep an unforgettable journey into the magical world of Eastern history and culture.

 

 

Accommodation options in Gaziantep city

Gaziantep has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from high-end luxury hotels to more affordable options. Here are some examples of different levels of hotels and other accommodation options:

1. Top-class hotels:
   • Divan Gaziantep: Luxury hotel with a high level of service, luxurious rooms and modern amenities. Located in the city center and offers magnificent views of the surrounding area.
   • Ibis Gaziantep: Part of a well-known hotel chain, Ibis offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and convenient location.
2. Mid-range hotels:
   • Teymur Continental Hotel: Cozy hotel with a good price-quality ratio, providing standard and comfortable rooms. It has a restaurant and a convenient location.
   • Grand Hotel Gaziantep: Modern hotel with facilities for business travelers and tourists. Spacious rooms, restaurant and conference rooms.
3. Economy hotels and hostels:
   • Hotel Tilmen: Economical hotel with comfortable rooms, providing basic amenities for a comfortable stay.
   • Nizip Otel: Another affordable option with comfortable rooms. Suitable for budget travelers.
4. Traditional guest houses and guesthouses:
   • Antik Beyazit Hotel: A cozy guest house in a traditional style with an authentic atmosphere. Located in the old town, which adds a special flavor.
   • Gaziantep Uluhan House: A traditional house converted into a guest house where guests can immerse themselves in the local culture.
5. Apartments and apartments:
   • Gaziantep Apart: Modern apartments with kitchen and amenities for those who prefer independent living.
   • Sirehan Hotel Apartments: A complex of apartments with different categories of rooms suitable for families and groups.

The choice of accommodation depends on your preferences, budget and travel goals. Gaziantep offers a variety of options, taking into account the needs of different categories of tourists.

 

Attractions in Gaziantep

Gaziantep is rich in diverse attractions reflecting its rich history and cultural heritage. Here are a few of the main places to visit and information on transport accessibility:

1. Gaziantep Castle (Gaziantep Castle): This historic castle was built in Roman times and later rebuilt in the Byzantine era. Located on a hill, which offers a beautiful view of the city.
2. Museum "Golden Jewelry from Karahan Castle" (Zeugma Mosaic Museum): This museum is a unique collection of mosaic floors from ancient Roman houses. The museum is one of the most important archaeological sites in the region.
3. Gaziantep Museum (Gaziantep Museum): Here you will find expositions dedicated to the history and culture of Gaziantep. The museum also includes an exhibition dedicated to the traditional art of carpet making.
4. Shahinbey Mosque (Şahinbey Camii): This mosque was built in 1564 and is an excellent example of Ottoman architecture. The mosque is also known for its magnificent mosaic decoration.
5. Leather Museum: Gaziantep is famous for its leather products. The Leather Museum offers a fascinating look at skin treatment techniques and the history of this industry in the city.

Transport accessibility:

• Air transport: Gaziantep is served by Oğuzeli Airport (GZT), which is 20 km southeast of the city. From the airport it is easy to reach the city center by taxi or rented transport.
• Buses and shuttles: The city has a well-developed public transport, including buses and minibuses that connect the main areas of the city and the surrounding area.
• Taxi and car rental: Taxis are readily available in the city centre and many hotels offer car rental services for those who prefer self-driving.

Gaziantep is a city with good transport infrastructure, which makes it convenient to visit various attractions.

 

 

Activities in Gaziantep

Gaziantep hosts several interesting events, holidays and festivals that allow tourists to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of local culture and traditions. Here are some popular events throughout the year:

1. Gaziantep (Gaziantep Culture and Art Festival) This festival, usually held in April, is a celebration of music, dance, theatre and other arts. Within the framework of the events, exhibitions and master classes are also held.
2. Chess Festival (Chess Festival): Gaziantep is the center of chess in Turkey and the Chess Festival is held annually, attracting participants from different countries. This event usually takes place in June.
3. Gastronomy Festival (Gastronomy Festival): Dedicated to the traditional cuisine of Gaziantep, this festival provides an opportunity to taste the variety of dishes known in the region. It is usually held in September.
4. Republic Day: October 29 is Republic Day in Turkey. Gaziantep hosts festive events including parades, concerts and fireworks.
5. Religious holidays: Various religious holidays such as Ramadan and Kurban Bayram are also celebrated in Gaziantep with traditional events, parades and cultural events.
6. Musical concerts and art exhibitions: Music concerts and art exhibitions are regularly held in various places of the city, providing an opportunity to enjoy local creativity and culture.

Travelers planning their visit can pay attention to the Gaziantep event calendar to incorporate interesting events into their program and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the city.

 

Weather and the best season to travel to Gaziantep

Gaziantep has a continental climate with hot summers and cool winters typical of southeastern Turkey. Here is an overview of the climate at different times of the year:

1. Spring (March-May):
   • Air temperature: In spring, Gaziantep temperatures become pleasant, with an average of 15°C to 25°C.
   • Spring rains are not excluded, but they are usually not too intense.
2. Summer (June to August):
   • Air temperature: In summer, Gaziantep is quite hot, with average daily temperatures ranging from 30°C to 40°C and above.
   • During this period, there is little rain.
3. Autumn (September-November):
   • Air temperature: In autumn, temperatures are still pleasant, averaging 20°C to 30°C. It can be cool in the evening.
   • Small rains can be characteristic of the autumn period.
4. Winter (December to February):
   • Air temperature: Gaziantep is cool in winter, with average daily temperatures around 5°C-15°C.
   • In winter, precipitation is possible in the form of rain or even snow.

Water temperature:

• It is recommended to visit the city in the summer months, when the water temperature in the local reservoirs becomes the most pleasant for swimming.

Best season to travel:

• Spring and autumn are considered the best time to visit Gaziantep when the air temperature is pleasant and the weather is stable. At this time, you can avoid extremely high summer temperatures and a cool winter period.

When choosing a time to travel, you should take into account your preferences for temperature and precipitation.

 

Language of communication, traditions and customs in Gaziantep

Language of communication: The official language in Turkey is Turkish. Most locals in Gaziantep speak Turkish, and it will be the most common language of communication. In tourist areas and big cities, English can be spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants and shops, but it is useful to know the basics of the Turkish language.

Traditions and customs:

• Politeness and hospitality: Turkey is famous for its traditions of hospitality. Be polite and friendly when dealing with locals.
• Clothes: In public places it is recommended to wear modest clothes, especially when visiting mosques. During the hot months, it is convenient to carry light clothes and closed shoes.

Laws:

• Drugs: The sale and use of drugs is illegal and punishable by severe penalties.
• Religious practices: It is important to respect religious traditions. Take off your shoes when entering a mosque.
• Photos: Before photographing people, especially locals, it is best to ask their permission. It is also not recommended to photograph military installations.

Other advice:

• Tip: Tipping in restaurants and cafes is welcome. Usually, the tip is about 10% of the bill amount.
• Market Shopping: Trading in the markets in Turkey is common. Do not hesitate to bargain when buying goods or services.

It is important to remember that Gaziantep is a city with a rich culture and history, and adherence to local traditions and customs contributes to a more harmonious interaction with the locals.

 

 

The main dialogues for traveling to Gaziantep

Basic phrases and expressions in Turkish can be helpful when traveling to Gaziantep. Here are a few keywords and phrases:

1. Greeting:
   • Hello (afternoon): Merhaba (marhab)
   • Hello (in the evening): İyi akşamlar (yi akşamlar)
   • Good morning: Günaydın (Gunaidın)
   • Good evening: İyi akşamlar (yi akşamlar)
2. Assistance and questions:
   • Where is the...?... nerede?
   • How much is it? Ne kadar?
   • Help, please: Yardım eder misiniz, lütfen?
3. Food and drink:
   • Thank you: Teşekkür ederim (Tesekkür Ederim)
   • Please: Lütfen (Lutfen)
   • Menu: Menü (menu)
   • Water: Su (su)
   • Food: Yemek (Yemek)
4. Directions:
   • Straight: Düz (duz)
   • Right: Sağ (sa)
   • Left: Sol (sol)
   • Forward: İleri (Ilieri)
   • Back: Geri (gery)
5. Shopping:
   • How much does it cost? Bu ne kadar?
   • Can I get a discount? İndirim yapabilir misiniz?
   • It's expensive: Bu pahali (bu pahala)
   • It's cheap: Bu ucuz (bu ujuz)
6. Farewell:
   • Goodbye: Hoşça kalın (hoshcha Kalyn)
   • See you later: Görüşürüz

Remember that locals usually rate when foreigners try to use Turkish, even if it’s just a few words. Speaking a local language can also make your experience more enjoyable.

 

 

Food, medicines, souvenirs and gifts in memory of Gaziantep

Unique and useful products:

1. Baklava: Gaziantep is famous for its exquisite types of baklava. Local craftsmen create this sweet dessert using nuts, honey and a thin layer of dough.
2. Antep cuisine: Try the richness of Eastern tastes. Meat dishes, kebabs, tortillas, meze and savory spices make the local cuisine unique.
3. Sujuk: This is dried sausage, seasoned with garlic and red pepper. The perfect snack or ingredient for dishes.

Medicines and herbs:

1. Guzzi (Gozgol): Traditional Turkish remedy for healing abrasions and accelerating the process of skin regeneration. It is made from the Guzzi Valley, known for its medicinal properties.
2. Chess tea: Herbal tea offered in the region. It is made up of various herbs and spices, such as saffron and ginger, and is considered beneficial for health.

Souvenirs:

1. Carpets and Textiles: Gaziantep is known for its production of carpets, carpets and textiles. You can purchase colorful carpets, pillows and other textiles.
2. Copper products: The region is famous for its traditional copper products such as utensils, jewelry and interior items.
3. Sabres: Traditional Turkish sabers are made in Gaziantep. This can be an interesting souvenir for gun lovers and collectors.

Local products:

1. Turkish coffee: Buy fragrant Turkish coffee and traditional cups for cooking and serving.
2. Sesame oil: Gaziantep is also known for its quality sesame oil, which is often used in traditional cuisine.

The choice of souvenirs and products depends on your preferences, but these offers represent authentic elements of Gaziantep’s culture and production.

 

Rest safety, documents, insurance, telephones, Internet in Gaziantep

Safety of rest in Gaziantep:

1. Documents and insurance:
   • Passport: A valid passport with a sufficient validity period is required.
   • Visa: Specify the requirements for your country. Citizens of many countries need a visa to visit Turkey.
   • Health insurance: It is recommended to obtain medical insurance covering the costs of treatment and emergency medical care.
2. Emergency services:
   • General emergency cases: 112
   • Police: 155
   • Ambulance: 112
   • Fire service: 110
3. Mobile operators:
   • Turk Telecom (Turk Telekom)
   • WaterFon (Vodafone)
   • Turkcell
4. Duration of stay:
   • Tourists can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days without the need for a long-term visa. However, it is recommended to check the current rules, as they may change.
5. Safety:
   • Gaziantep is considered a relatively safe region, but you should always follow standard precautions. Avoid dark and secluded places, especially at night, and keep an eye on your personal belongings.
6. Compliance with local laws and customs:
   • Follow local laws and traditions. Photography of military installations may be prohibited.
7. Consular representation:
   • Write down the contact details of your consular mission or embassy for emergencies.
8. Medical care:
   • Get acquainted in advance with the location of the nearest medical institutions and pharmacies. In case of emergency medical care, call the ambulance number 112.

Dependence on individual circumstances, such as medical needs and length of stay, may require additional security measures. Before traveling, it is always recommended to check current safety recommendations and obtain information from consular services.