Turkey's 21 Historical Sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List

Turkey is one of the most important tourism destinations in the world with its rich history and culture. With 21 properties on the UNESCO World Heritage List, it is the 20th country in the world with the most UNESCO World Heritage sites.

21 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey

Turkey occupies an important place on the UNESCO World Heritage List with its cultural and natural beauties. The places on this list carry the country's rich history and traces of various civilizations. Here are some important places on the UNESCO World Heritage List in Turkey:

Historical Areas of Istanbul (1985)

UNESCO's "Historical Areas of Istanbul" were included in the World Heritage List in 1985. These areas consist of places containing the most important and historical riches of Istanbul. Historical Areas of Istanbul consists of the following four sections:

• Sultanahmet Region : Sultanahmet, the heart of Istanbul's historical peninsula, hosts many important buildings from the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Important buildings in this region include Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern.
• Süleymaniye Region : Süleymaniye Mosque and the social complex (mixed buildings) around it are among the most important works of Mimar Sinan. This region offers examples of the architecture and urbanism of the Ottoman period.
• Zeyrek Region : Zeyrek Mosque (Pantocrator Monastery) is an important building from the Byzantine period and this region attracts attention with its historical texture.
• Walls Area : Istanbul's historical walls are part of the city's defense systems during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods and have great historical importance for the city.

Istanbul's Historical Areas are a region of world importance that reflects the city's thousands of years of history and cultural and architectural heritage. These areas are a concrete indicator of the fact that Istanbul has hosted many civilizations throughout history. This historical texture of Istanbul attracts the attention of both local people and many visitors from around the world, and great importance is attached to its preservation.

Cappadocia and Göreme National Park (1985)

UNESCO added Cappadocia and Göreme National Park to the World Heritage List in 1985. Cappadocia is a region located in the Nevşehir province of Turkey, famous for its unique natural beauties and historical riches. This region is particularly known for:

• Fairy Chimneys : Unique mushroom-shaped rock formations formed by the effect of erosion are one of the most iconic images of Cappadocia. These natural structures are a result of the region's volcanic past.
• Rock-Carved Structures : Cappadocia is famous for its underground cities and rock-carved churches. These structures were used by people who hid for faith during the early Christian period.
• Göreme National Park : Göreme is a national park located in the heart of Cappadocia and contains religious buildings such as historical churches, monasteries and chapels. Göreme Open Air Museum is one of the most important tourist attractions of the region.
• Historical and Cultural Richness : The region has hosted many civilizations, starting from the Hittites. These various historical periods form the rich cultural heritage of Cappadocia.

Cappadocia is a unique region with both its natural and historical features. The landscape of the region can be viewed from the air with balloon tours, and this experience is a popular activity for local and foreign tourists. Inclusion of Cappadocia on the UNESCO World Heritage List is important for the protection and promotion of this unique cultural and natural heritage.

Sivas Divriği Ulu Mosque and Hospital (1985)

UNESCO included the Divriği Ulu Mosque and Hospital in Sivas on the World Heritage List in 1985. This work is considered one of the most important historical and architectural works of Turkey. Divriği Ulu Mosque and Hospital attracts attention with the following features:

• Architectural and Artistic Richness : Divriği Ulu Mosque and Hospital is one of the most original and impressive works of the Anatolian Seljuk period. It is especially famous for the extraordinary details and aesthetic beauty of the stonework found on its doors and walls. These details reflect the art and architecture of the period.
• Historical and Cultural Importance : The mosque and hospital, built by Ahmet Shah of Mengücek in 1228-1229, reveal the social and cultural structure of Medieval Anatolia. Darüşşifa (hospital) is important in terms of understanding the medical knowledge and health services of the period.
• Use as a Religious and Healing Center : While the mosque was used for religious worship, its hospital served as a health center. The fact that this building combines two different religious and health-related functions is an important feature that reflects the socio-cultural structure of the period.
• World Heritage Status : UNESCO's declaration of this work as World Heritage has increased interest in the structure and conservation efforts at both national and international levels.

Divriği Ulu Mosque and Hospital is considered one of the most valuable heritages of Turkey in terms of history, architecture and culture. This structure offers visitors the opportunity to discover the art and architecture of the Anatolian Seljuk period.

Hittite Capital Hattusa (1986)

UNESCO added Hattusa, the capital of the Hittite Empire, to the World Heritage List in 1986. Hattusa is located in Boğazkale district of Çorum province of Turkey and is one of the most important archaeological sites of the ancient Hittite civilization. The prominent features of Hattusa are:

• Historical and Cultural Importance : Hattusa, B.C. As the capital of the Hittite Empire in the 2nd millennium BC, it was a major political and cultural centre. The Hittites were an ancient civilization that ruled in Anatolia and spread over a wide geography.
• Impressive Buildings and Monuments : Hattusa is famous for its large and impressive city walls, gates, temples and palace ruins. The most well-known among these are Yerkapı, Aslanlı Kapı and Kral Kapı.
• Archaeological Discoveries : Excavations in Hattusa helped us understand the language, culture, art and history of the Hittite civilization. Especially cuneiform tablets reveal the legal system, religious beliefs and daily life of the Hittites.
• Conservation Studies : UNESCO's recognition as a World Heritage Site is of great importance for the protection of Hattusa and its transfer to future generations. This status has increased international support and interest for the conservation of the site and archaeological studies.

Hattusa is an important historical site that reflects the rich heritage of the Hittites and the complexity of the ancient Anatolian civilization. This region is of great importance for both archaeologists and history enthusiasts and maintains its place in world history.

Mount Nemrut (1987)

UNESCO added Mount Nemrut, located in Adıyaman province of Turkey, to the World Heritage List in 1987. Nemrut Mountain is especially famous for its huge statues and monumental tomb complex from the Commagene Kingdom period. The remarkable features of Mount Nemrut are:

• Colossal Statues and Monuments : At the top of Mount Nemrut, BC. There are huge statues and monuments built by Commagene King Antiochos I in the 1st century. These statues were built as statues of gods and the king and reflect the artistic understanding and belief system of the period.
• Monumental Grave Tumulus : The large tumulus located at the top of Mount Nemrut is believed to be the tomb of King Antiochos. This tumulus is a huge sandstone pile about 150 meters in diameter.
• Natural and Historical Importance : Mount Nemrut attracts attention with both its natural beauty and historical and archaeological richness. The sunrise and sunset views that can be viewed from the top of the mountain provide a particularly impressive experience for visitors.
• Conservation and Research Studies : The declaration of Mount Nemrut as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has increased international attention and support for the protection of the site and scientific research.

Mount Nemrut is one of Turkey's most important cultural heritages with its rich history, unique works of art and impressive natural scenery. This area is an important destination for both history buffs and nature lovers.

Antalya, Muğla Ksanthos-Letoon (1988)

UNESCO added Xanthos and Letoon, two important cities of the ancient Lycian civilization, located between Antalya and Muğla provinces, to the World Heritage List in 1988. Xanthos and Letoon played an important role as the religious and administrative centers of Lycia in ancient times and are notable for the following features:

• Xanthos : Known as the administrative capital of Ancient Lycia, Xanthos is famous for its rich history and archaeological ruins. In this area, there are structures such as monumental tombs, temples and theaters built by the Lycians. Xanthos is known for its architectural works, especially from the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
• Letoon : Letoon is considered the religious center of Lycia and is home to a temple complex dedicated to the goddess Leto. In this area, there are three temples and other religious structures dedicated to Leto, Apollo and Artemis.
• Historical and Cultural Richness : Xanthos and Letoon shed light on the religious, political and cultural life of the Lycian civilization. The ruins here provide important information about the art, architecture and belief systems of this ancient civilization.
• Conservation Efforts : The recognition of these sites as UNESCO World Heritage Sites has generated international interest and support for the conservation and restoration of both Xanthos and Letoon.

Xanthos and Letoon contain some of the most important and best-preserved ruins of the Ancient Lycian civilization, and this region is of great importance for history and archaeology enthusiasts. These areas are critical to understanding the legacy of ancient civilizations and the prehistory of the Mediterranean region.

Denizli, Pamukkale and Hierapolis National Park (1988)

UNESCO added Pamukkale and Hierapolis Ancient City in Denizli to the World Heritage List in 1988. Pamukkale and Hierapolis are regions that attract attention with their natural beauty and historical riches. The important features of this area are:

Travertines of Pamukkale: Pamukkale means "cotton castle" and takes its name from the snow-white travertine terraces. These travertines are formed by the accumulation of calcium carbonate carried by hot springs for centuries and are a unique natural formation.

• Hierapolis Ancient City : Located right next to Pamukkale, Hierapolis Ancient City contains important historical buildings from the ancient Roman and Byzantine periods. These structures include a theatre, necropolis (cemetery area), baths and a temple.
• Historical and Cultural Richness : Hierapolis has been used as a health center since ancient times. This region, where hot water springs are believed to be healing, has attracted people since ancient times.
• Natural and Historical Integrity : Pamukkale and Hierapolis are one of the rare places that are in integrity with their natural beauty and historical ruins. This feature makes the region attractive for both nature and history enthusiasts.
• Conservation Studies : UNESCO's declaration of this area as a World Heritage Site has contributed greatly to the protection of both natural beauties and historical areas.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis are one of Turkey's most popular tourist destinations and attract great attention from both local and international visitors. These areas offer a perfect combination of Turkey's natural and historical riches.

Karabük, Historical Safranbolu City (1994)

UNESCO added the Historical City of Safranbolu in Karabük province to the World Heritage List in 1994. Safranbolu has a preserved historical city center known for its Ottoman-era architecture, narrow streets and historical houses. The prominent features of Safranbolu are:

• Traditional Ottoman Houses : Safranbolu is famous for its well-preserved traditional Ottoman houses, especially from the 17th and 18th centuries. These houses reflect the architectural features, city planning and lifestyle of the period. Stone foundations, wooden floors, bay windows and inner courtyards are the characteristic features of these houses.
• Historical and Cultural Texture : Safranbolu has a historical past as an important stop on the trade routes of the Ottoman Empire. The city maintains its rich cultural heritage by preserving the traditional lifestyle, handicrafts and local architecture from past to present.
• Conservation and Restoration Studies : UNESCO's recognition as a World Heritage Site has increased international attention and support for the preservation and restoration of Safranbolu's historical texture.
• Touristic Attraction : Safranbolu is frequently visited by local and foreign tourists with its historical atmosphere, traditional Turkish accommodation, local handicrafts and delicious cuisine.

The Historical City of Safranbolu, as one of Turkey's best-preserved Ottoman period cities, offers visitors a lively page of history. This region is like an open-air museum that brings the architectural and cultural richness of the past to modern times.

Ancient City of Troy (1998)

UNESCO added the Ancient City of Troy, located in Çanakkale province of Turkey, to the World Heritage List in 1998. Troy is a legendary city of great historical importance, mentioned in Homer's Iliad. The prominent features of Troy are:

• Historical and Mythological Importance : Troy has an important place in Ancient Greek literature and is especially famous for the Trojan War described in the Iliad epic. The history of Troy dates back to B.C. It dates back to 3000 BC and has hosted many civilizations.
• Archaeological Layers : Excavations in Troy have revealed layers of the city from many different periods. These layers provide information about city life, architecture and culture in different periods.
• Monumental Ruins : There are many monumental building ruins in Troy, such as walls, temples, theaters and various public buildings. These structures show the richness and importance of the ancient city.
• Conservation and Research Studies : The declaration of Troy as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has increased international attention and support for the protection of the site and archaeological studies.

The Ancient City of Troy is known worldwide for its historical and mythological stories and is a great focus of interest for history, archeology and mythology enthusiasts. This region is an important destination for both those who are interested in the works of Homer and those who want to discover the secrets of ancient times.

Çanakkale, Troy, Ancient City of Troy (1998)

UNESCO added the Ancient City of Troy in Çanakkale to the World Heritage List in 1998. Troy is a legendary city of great historical and mythological importance worldwide. The most notable features of Troy are:

• Mythological and Historical Importance : Troy is famous for the Trojan War described in Homer's epic poems Iliad and Odyssey. These stories show that Troy was not only a historical place, but also had a rich mythological past.
• Archaeological Richness : Excavations in Troy have revealed layers of the city from many different periods. These layers extend from the Bronze Age to the Roman period.
• Excavations and Discoveries : Excavations in Troy were started by Heinrich Schliemann in the late 19th century and have since yielded many important finds that reveal the historical fabric of the city. These findings include structures such as walls, gate ruins, palaces and tombs.
• Historical Walls and City Plan : One of the most striking features of Troy is the strong walls surrounding the city. These walls give an idea of how the city was protected in ancient times.
• UNESCO World Heritage Status : The declaration of Troy as a World Heritage Site has enabled this historical site to be protected and recognized as a world heritage site. This status has also contributed to increased international interest and resources for archaeological studies in the region.

The Ancient City of Troy has a rich history both historically and mythologically and holds an important place in world history. Troy, an important research and visit area for archeology and history enthusiasts, is considered the place where one of the most famous stories in history took place.

Edirne Selimiye Mosque and Complex (2011)

UNESCO added the Selimiye Mosque and Complex in Edirne to the World Heritage List in 2011. This work is considered one of the peaks of Ottoman architecture and is a structure that Mimar Sinan described as "my masterwork". The prominent features of Selimiye Mosque and Social Complex are:

• Masterpiece of Mimar Sinan : Selimiye Mosque is a building designed and built by Mimar Sinan at the peak of his career. The mosque is considered a work in which Sinan's architectural mastery and artistic vision are exhibited at the highest level.
• Architectural Features : The most striking feature of the mosque is its huge dome with a diameter of 31.28 meters. This dome is the largest dome in Ottoman architecture. In addition, the four minarets of the mosque and the three balconies of each of these minarets are architecturally impressive.
• Complex Complex : In addition to the Selimiye Mosque, the complex includes buildings such as a madrasah, a hospital, a library and an arasta (bazaar). This complex was designed to meet the religious, educational and social needs of the Ottoman society.
• Artistic and Aesthetic Value : The mosque and its complex attract attention with the decorations, tiles and stone workmanship used in both interior and exterior spaces. These details reflect the richness and sophistication of Ottoman art.
• Conservation and Promotion : The declaration of Selimiye Mosque and Social Complex as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has increased international interest in this historical structure and contributed to its preservation.

Selimiye Mosque and Social Complex, as one of the most important examples of Ottoman architecture and art, is of great importance for both history and architecture enthusiasts. This building is a shining symbol of Edirne and Turkey's cultural heritage.

Çatalhöyük Neolithic City (2012)

UNESCO added the Çatalhöyük Neolithic City, located in Turkey's Konya province, to the World Heritage List in 2012. Çatalhöyük is a settlement dating back approximately 9,000 years ago and was founded in the Neolithic Age. This old city attracts attention with its features that are of great importance in understanding prehistoric periods:

• Early Settlement : Çatalhöyük was founded in the Neolithic Age (New Stone Age) and is one of the largest and best preserved settlements of this period. This place is an important example of the transition to agricultural societies and the transition to settled life in human history.
• Architecture and Settlement Plan : Excavations in Çatalhöyük have revealed a well-planned settlement structure and unique architectural features. It was observed that the houses were built adjacent to each other and were generally entered through the roofs.
• Wall Paintings and Sculptures : Çatalhöyük also attracts attention with its wall paintings, reliefs and sculptural works. These artistic works reflect the beliefs, daily life and view of the environment at that time.
• Archaeological Importance : Excavations in Çatalhöyük provide valuable information about the social structures, lifestyles and interactions of Neolithic Age people with the environment.
• Conservation and Research Studies : The declaration of Çatalhöyük as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has increased international interest and support for the preservation of this historical site and archaeological research. This status ensures that the protected area is transferred to future generations and scientific research is continued.

Çatalhöyük is a unique archaeological site that sheds light on our understanding of the lifestyle, social structure and cultural practices of early settled societies in human history. This old city is of great importance for archaeologists and history enthusiasts who want to explore the social and cultural dynamics of prehistoric times. Çatalhöyük is also considered one of the first examples of urbanization in human history and is remarkable with this feature.

Bursa Cumalıkızık, Birth of the Ottoman Empire (2014)

UNESCO added Bursa and Cumalıkızık to the World Heritage List in 2014 under the name "Bursa and Cumalıkızık: The Birth of the Ottoman Empire". This area includes the historical and cultural heritage of Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, and the nearby village of Cumalıkızık. The prominent features of Bursa and Cumalıkızık are:

• Bursa, the First Capital of the Ottoman Empire : Bursa has an important historical past as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. The city offers early examples of Ottoman architecture, art and cultural life.
• Historical Mosques and Complexes : There are many mosques and complexes in Bursa built by the founders of the Ottoman Empire. These structures show the development of Ottoman architecture and art.
• Cumalıkızık Village : Cumalıkızık is a traditional village from the Ottoman period, close to Bursa. The village has existed for more than 700 years and attracts attention with its narrow streets and colorful, historical houses.
• Preservation and Living Heritage : Bursa and Cumalıkızık are important with their structures and living cultural heritage from the early periods of the Ottoman Empire. UNESCO's recognition as a World Heritage Site is important for the protection and promotion of this historical and cultural heritage.
• Tourism and Cultural Activities : Bursa and Cumalıkızık offer visitors the opportunity to experience the history, culture and traditional lifestyle of the Ottoman Empire.

Bursa and Cumalıkızık have a rich historical and cultural heritage reflecting the birth and early periods of the Ottoman Empire. These areas are an important destination for those who want to explore Ottoman history and culture.

Bergama Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape Area (2014)

In 2014, UNESCO added Bergama to the World Heritage List under the name "Bergama Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape Area". Bergama is a historically and culturally rich region in the province of Izmir. This area contains many important archaeological sites from ancient times and is notable for:

• Ancient City Bergama (Pergamon) : Pergamon, formerly known as Pergamon, was an important cultural and political center during the ancient Greek and Roman periods. The city contains many important historical buildings such as the Acropolis, library, theatre, temples and the health center Asklepieion.
• Acropolis : Bergama's Acropolis is located at the highest point of the city and has an impressive architecture. There are important buildings here such as the Zeus Altar, the Temple of Athena and the famous Pergamon Theatre.
• Asklepieion : Asklepieion, one of the most famous healing centers of the ancient world, has an important place in the field of medicine and health. This complex was a sacred area visited by patients to seek healing.
• Cultural and Historical Richness : Bergama has a multi-layered history bearing the traces of different civilizations. Artifacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods form the rich historical texture of the region.
• UNESCO World Heritage Status : The declaration of Bergama as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is important for the protection and promotion of this historical area at the global level.

Bergama is of great importance for history and archeology enthusiasts and is an ideal place to discover the art, architecture and culture of ancient times. This region offers visitors a unique cultural and historical experience.

Diyarbakır Castle and Walls and Hevsel Gardens (2015)

UNESCO added Diyarbakır Castle and Walls and Hevsel Gardens to the World Heritage List in 2015. Diyarbakır is a historical and culturally rich city located in southeastern Turkey. The highlights of this area are:

• Diyarbakır Walls : One of the most distinctive features of Diyarbakır is the large walls surrounding the city. These walls are approximately 5.5 kilometers long and contain layers from the Roman, Byzantine, Sassanid, Arab and Ottoman periods. Diyarbakır Walls are one of the longest and best preserved medieval walls in the world.
• Diyarbakır Castle : Located within the walls, the castle forms the center of the city's defense system. In and around the castle, there are historical mosques, churches and other important buildings.
• Hevsel Gardens : Located just outside Diyarbakır Castle, Hevsel Gardens is a fertile agricultural area along the Tigris River. These gardens have met the city's food needs and provided a natural living space for thousands of years.
• Cultural and Historical Richness : Diyarbakır has a rich history bearing the traces of different civilizations. The city has been the point of interaction of many cultures and beliefs in different periods.
• Protection and Promotion : UNESCO's declaration of this area as a World Heritage Site is of great importance for the protection and promotion of both the historical walls and Hevsel Gardens.

Diyarbakır Castle and Walls and Hevsel Gardens attract attention with both their historical structures and natural beauty, and with these features they form an important part of Turkey's cultural heritage. This area is an important destination to visit for history and nature enthusiasts.

Ephesus Ancient City (2015)

UNESCO added the Ancient City of Ephesus, located in Turkey's Izmir province, to the World Heritage List in 2015. Ephesus is considered one of the most important cultural and historical centers of ancient times and is famous for the following features:

• Historical and Cultural Importance : Ephesus was an important port city and trade center during the Ancient Greek and Roman periods. It also has great importance in terms of Christian history.
• Archaeological Ruins : Excavations in Ephesus have revealed the rich historical and cultural heritage of the city. There are impressive buildings here such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, the Temple of Hadrian and the Temple of Artemis.
• Celsus Library : One of the most famous buildings of Ephesus, the Celsus Library was one of the largest libraries of the ancient world and still stands as an impressive structure today.
• Grand Theatre : The Great Theater in Ephesus is one of the largest theaters of the Ancient Age with a capacity of 25,000 people and still hosts various events today.
• Conservation and Research Studies : The declaration of Ephesus as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has increased international interest in the protection of this historical site and scientific research.

The Ancient City of Ephesus covers a wide historical spectrum from prehistoric times to the present day and offers visitors the opportunity to discover the art, architecture and culture of the ancient world. This region has an important place in world history and is an important destination for both archeology enthusiasts and history enthusiasts.

Kars, Ani Archaeological Site (2016)

UNESCO added the Ani Archaeological Site in Kars province to the World Heritage List in 2016. Ani is an important historical settlement with its historical richness and unique archaeological ruins. The prominent features of Ani Archaeological Site are:

• Historical and Cultural Importance : Ani was a major political and commercial center as the capital of the Armenian Kingdom in the 10th and 11th centuries. Ani, also known as the "City of a Thousand and One Churches", once had a large population and a rich culture.
• Archaeological Ruins : Excavations in Ani have revealed the ruins of the city. These ruins include churches, cathedrals, palaces and civil buildings.
• Architectural Features : Ani's architecture offers unique examples of Armenian architecture. In particular, buildings such as Ani Cathedral and Tigran Honents Church represent the peak of architectural art of the period.
• Natural Landscape and Location : Ani is located in a dramatic landscape on the banks of the Arpaçay River. This location has enabled the city to play an important role in terms of both defense and trade throughout its history.
• Conservation and Research Studies : UNESCO's declaration of this area as a World Heritage Site has increased international interest in the protection of Ani and archaeological studies.

Ani Archaeological Site is an important part of Medieval Anatolia and Armenian architectural and cultural heritage. This area offers a unique experience to both history buffs and archeology enthusiasts and carries the traces of the past to the present.

Aydin, Aphrodisias (2017)

UNESCO added the Ancient City of Aphrodisias, located in Aydın province, to the World Heritage List in 2017. Aphrodisias is known as an important art and culture center in ancient times and is famous for the following features:

• Historical and Cultural Importance : Aphrodisias had a great reputation, especially in the field of sculpture, during the Ancient Greek and Roman periods. The city is dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty.
• Archaeological Ruins : Excavations in Aphrodisias have revealed the rich historical and cultural heritage of the city. There are many statues exhibited here in the Temple of Aphrodite, Theatre, Stadium, Tetrapylon (monumental gate) and Aphrodisias Museum.
• Sculpture School : Aphrodisias hosted a famous sculpture school in the ancient world. This school is known for its fine craftsmanship and high quality marble sculptures.
• Natural and Historical Integrity : Aphrodisias attracts attention with both its natural beauties and historical and archaeological richness. The city covers a wide historical range from ancient times to the present day.
• Conservation and Research Studies : The declaration of Aphrodisias as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has increased international interest in the preservation and scientific research of this historical site.

The Ancient City of Aphrodisias is an important destination for history and archeology enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to discover the art, architecture and culture of the ancient world. This region, with its rich historical and cultural heritage, is like an open-air museum that brings the artistic and architectural achievements of the past to the present. Aphrodisias is a unique archaeological site bearing traces of both sculpture art and Ancient Greek and Roman cultures.

Şanlıurfa, Göbeklitepe Archaeological Site (2018)

UNESCO added the Göbeklitepe Archaeological Site in Şanlıurfa to the World Heritage List in 2018. Göbeklitepe is considered one of the oldest known temple complexes in the world and dates back to approximately 12,000 years ago. The prominent features of Göbeklitepe are:

• Historical Importance : Göbeklitepe is important as the oldest known religious building complex in human history, dating back to the Neolithic Age. This field offers new perspectives in understanding human history and contributes to the understanding of the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural societies.
• Architectural and Archaeological Features : The structures in Göbeklitepe consist of large stone columns and there are carvings of various animals and symbolic figures on these columns. The circular layout and large stone columns of these structures show that the people of that period had an advanced understanding of architecture and social organization skills.
• Traces of Ancient Religious Practices : Göbeklitepe may contain the first examples of religious beliefs and rituals in human history. The statues and reliefs found provide important clues about the worldview and belief systems of the people of that period.
• Conservation and Research Studies : The declaration of Göbeklitepe as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has contributed to increased international interest in the protection of the site and archaeological studies.
• Cultural Impact and Significance : The discovery of Göbeklitepe has profoundly influenced our current understanding of human history and early settled life. This discovery led to the development of new theories about the social and cultural structure of prehistoric times.

Göbeklitepe has great importance both in archaeological and historical terms and is considered an area that sheds light on the earliest periods of human history. This region is of great interest to archaeologists, historians and history enthusiasts who want to explore the mysteries of prehistoric times. Göbeklitepe has also gone down in history as a discovery that deepened and expanded our understanding of the beginning of human history.

Malatya, Arslantepe Archaeological Site (2021)

UNESCO added the Arslantepe Archaeological Site in Malatya to the World Heritage List in 2021. Arslantepe is a settlement of great historical importance and dates back approximately 5,000 years. The prominent features of Arslantepe are:

• Historical and Archaeological Importance : Arslantepe hosted many civilizations over a long period of time, from the Neolithic Age to the Iron Age. Excavations in this area have revealed the long and complex history of the region.
• Traces of Early State Structures : Arslantepe offers one of the first examples of early state structures and social hierarchy. The palace complex and administrative buildings located here contribute to the understanding of the early state organization and management styles.
• Architectural and Artistic Finds : During the archaeological excavations in Arslantepe, large-scale murals, reliefs and other artistic works were discovered. These works show the artistic and cultural richness of the region.
• Conservation and Research Studies : The declaration of Arslantepe as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has increased international interest and support for the protection of the site and archaeological studies.
• Cultural and Historical Value : Arslantepe provides valuable information about the social, economic and political structures of prehistoric periods and in this respect holds an important place in world history.

Arslantepe Archaeological Area is an important destination for both history and archeology enthusiasts. This region offers a unique opportunity to understand the lifestyles, social and political structures of ancient times and makes a significant contribution to the understanding of human history.

Medieval Mosques of Anatolia with Wooden Pillars and Beams (2023)

UNESCO added "Medieval Period Wooden Post and Beam Mosques of Anatolia" to the World Heritage List in 2023. This decision increased Turkey's cultural assets on the UNESCO World Heritage List to 21. These selected mosques are located in different regions of Anatolia and are well preserved from the Middle Ages to the present day.

These mosques reflect Anatolian life as historical structures dating from the Middle Ages to the present day. These mosques, which are among the important representatives of the monumental wooden mosque typology with a hypostyle plan, also stand out with their examples of wood carving art. The meticulous woodwork seen on the doors, pulpits, column capitals, ceiling beams and consoles demonstrates the aesthetic understanding and carpentry skills of these mosques.

Some important mosques included in this list are: Eşrefoğlu Mosque in Konya's Beyşehir district, Eskişehir's Sivrihisar Ulu Mosque, Kastamonu Town Village's Mahmut Bey Mosque, Ankara's Ahi Şerefeddin (Arslanhane) Mosque and Afyonkarahisar Ulu Mosque. Although these mosques are in different cities, they have common features and represent the cultural and historical heritage of Anatolia.