Gaziantep, located in southeastern Turkey, is a city known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and, most famously, its cuisine. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, it offers a blend of ancient sites and modern attractions. Gaziantep is often referred to as the “Gastronomy Capital of Turkey” due to its world renowned culinary traditions.
Places to Visit in Gaziantep:
- Gaziantep Castle: A historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city, dating back to Roman times.
- Zeugma Mosaic Museum: The largest mosaic museum in the world, housing stunning mosaics from the ancient city of Zeugma.
- Gaziantep Archeology Museum: Features a collection of artifacts from the region’s ancient past, including Roman, Hittite, and Byzantine periods.
- Emine Göğüş Culinary Museum: A museum dedicated to Gaziantep’s culinary history, where visitors can learn about the rich food culture.
- Bakırcılar Çarşısı (Coppersmith Bazaar): A vibrant market where traditional artisans create and sell handmade copper items.
Food to Try:
Gaziantep’s food is central to its identity, and there are several must-try dishes:
- Gaziantep Baklava: World-famous for its flaky layers and rich flavor, made with pistachios grown locally.
- Kebabs: Especially the Alinazik kebab, made with chargrilled eggplant and seasoned meat.
- Katmer: A traditional pastry filled with pistachio and cream, often eaten for breakfast.
- Beyran Soup: A flavorful lamb soup made with rice, garlic, and spices.
City Transportation:
Gaziantep has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and trams. Taxis are also readily available, and the city is known for being relatively easy to navigate, even for first-time visitors.
Visiting Gaziantep felt like stepping into a city where every corner breathes history and tradition, yet it pulses with modern life. What sets Gaziantep apart from other cities in Turkey is its culinary culture there’s a deep sense of pride in their food, and you can feel it in every bite. From the warm greetings of the locals to the rich aroma of freshly baked baklava filling the streets, the city seems to revolve around food.
One of the most memorable activities was simply wandering through Bakırcılar Çarşısı, watching coppersmiths at work while sipping on a glass of local tea. The atmosphere is bustling yet welcoming, with locals eager to share stories about their craft or recommend the best kebab spot.
There’s also something uniquely down-to-earth about the people of Gaziantep. While tourism is growing, you never feel like an outsider here. The locals are genuinely friendly, often asking where you’re from and offering a warm welcome. Unlike some of the bigger tourist destinations, Gaziantep has managed to retain a sense of authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere.
If you have the chance to visit, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a meal at a small, family-run restaurant. It’s not just the food that makes it special it’s the whole experience, the way the locals live and breathe the rich traditions of their city.
