Archaelogy And Bible

Arrival at Istanbul Airport. Please look for your name after clearing customs. Meet and transfer to your hotel.

We meet at 09.00 am in your hotel. We spend the day exploring the treasures of Istanbul, the historic city formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople. Due to its strategic location astride both Asia and Europe, Istanbul served as the capital of a series of empires since its founding back in the seventh century BC. Our morning discoveries begin in Sultanahmet, a district on Istanbul’s European side filled with palaces, churches, and mosques dating from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. We’ll start at the Blue Mosque, one of the world’s most famous religious buildings. Taking its name from the tens of thousands of shimmering blue iznik tiles decorating its interior, the mosque features a cascade of domes and six minarets that tower over the square and represent the defining symbol of the Istanbul skyline. We visit the ancient Hippodrome with Obelisk of Theodosius, Snake Pillar and German Fountain of Wilhelm II. Byzantine Hippodrome was the heart of Constantinople’s political and sporting life, and the scene of games and riots through 500 years of Ottoman history as well. Our discoveries of Istanbul’s Old City continue with a visit to Hagia Sophia. Completed under Emperor Justinian in AD 537, its magnificent dome remains a true wonder of the Byzantine world. Then, it’s a short walk to Topkapi Palace, another highlight of the city’s glorious past. The complex of grand pavilions and courtyards was built by Mehmet II in the middle of the 15th century (just after his conquest of Constantinople) and served as the residence of Ottoman sultans for the next 400 years. Today, it is one of the world’s richest museums, with a staggering collection of arms, porcelain, and priceless treasures that include the jewel-studded dagger made famous by the Hollywood heist film, Topkapi.

After breakfast, we’ll walk from our hotel in Old City (Sultanahmet) to the water for a relaxing ferry cruise along the Bosporus, the strait dividing the city and linking the Marmara and Black Sea. You can look north to the “European” district of Galata, or east to the Asiatic side of the Bosporus and the Maiden’s Tower. In ancient times, the Golden Horn could be closed off to warships with a giant chain stretching from here to Seraglio Point. Following our cruise, we will into the vibrant old markets of İstanbul around Spice Market and Grand Bazaar.

Discover the historic battlefields of Gallipoli and the strategic beauty of the Dardanelles Strait on this immersive tour. Walk in the footsteps of soldiers from World War I, visiting key sites such as Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair, and the Turkish memorials. After Gallipoli, cross the Dardanelles Strait by ferry and drive to Çanakkale.

Depart from Çanakkale and drive to Troy (approx. 30 min from Çanakkale). Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for the legendary Trojan War.See the replica wooden Trojan Horse, ancient city walls, sacrificial altars, and layers of settlement dating back 4,000 years. Drive to Assos (Behramkale) from Troy through scenic North Aegean countryside. Walk through the charming village of Behramkale. Visit the Temple of Athena at the hilltop acropolis for breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the Greek island of Lesbos.

Explore the ancient city of Pergamon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. Visit the Acropolis with its dramatic hillside theater, the Temple of Trajan, the famous Library of Pergamon, and the Altar of Zeus. Short drive to Akhisar, the site of ancient Thyatira, another one of the Seven Churches of Revelation.Tour the small but significant archaeological site, including the remains of ancient columns, church ruins, and city walls. Learn about Thyatira’s historical importance as a trade center, known for its guilds and early Christian community. Visit the impressive Roman Agora of Smyrna, right in the heart of modern Izmir. See the remains of basilicas, arches, and colonnaded streets. Discover the blend of ancient and modern as you walk through the bustling Kemeraltı bazaar nearby.

Discover the wonders of Ephesus and its surroundings on a tour that brings history to life. Begin your journey at the magnificent Ephesus Ancient City, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean. Marvel at the grandeur of the Library of Celsus, walk along the marble-paved streets, explore the impressive Great Theatre, and imagine daily life in this thriving Roman metropolis. Continue to the Basilica of St. John, built on the believed burial site of John the Apostle. Explore the impressive ruins and learn about the significance of this monumental church, once one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Christian world. Conclude your visit at the Ephesus Museum, where you’ll find a fascinating collection of artifacts unearthed from the ancient city. Admire statues, mosaics, and everyday objects that offer deeper insight into the art, culture, and daily life of Ephesus through the ages.

Walk through Sardis, famed for its ancient synagogue and church ruins. Explore the ancient capital of the Lydian Kingdom, famed for its wealth and as the birthplace of coinage. Visit the impressive ruins: the Temple of Artemis, the reconstructed gymnasium, the Roman-era synagogue, and the ancient shops of the city’s main street. Short drive to the site of ancient Philadelphia, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. Visit the remains of the Byzantine-era St. John’s Church. Explore scattered ruins and enjoy views over the modern town of Alaşehir. Continue to Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient ruins and striking white travertine terraces. Walk through the well-preserved ancient city: the massive Roman theater, the Temple of Apollo, the Martyrium of St. Philip, and the necropolis. Visit the Pamukkale travertine terraces—unique natural mineral pools formed by hot springs.

Tour Laodicea, noted for its biblical references and archaeological remains. Laodicea, located in the fertile Lycus River valley of southwestern Turkey, is one of the most significant ancient cities of the region. Founded in the 3rd century BCE and flourishing through the Roman and Byzantine periods, Laodicea was renowned for its wealth, commerce, and sophisticated urban planning. The city was an important center for trade, banking, medicine, and textile production, particularly famous for its black wool. Visitors to Laodicea can explore extensive ruins, including grand colonnaded streets, two theaters, a stadium, temples, monumental fountains, and one of the earliest known Christian churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation. Continue to Antalya (Attaleia), a port visited by Paul.

Embark on a fascinating journey through the ancient wonders of Antalya with a visit to Perge and Aspendos. Begin your tour at Perge, once a thriving city of Pamphylia. Stroll along its impressive colonnaded streets, explore the remains of grand gates and towers, and marvel at the well-preserved Roman baths, agora, and the ancient stadium that once hosted thousands of spectators. Continue to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Stand in awe of this magnificent structure, renowned for its outstanding acoustics and timeless architecture, which still hosts performances today. Explore the surrounding ruins, including the ancient aqueduct and basilica, to get a glimpse of daily life in this vibrant Roman city. Afternoon, we drive to Konya.

Begin your journey in Konya, the historic city renowned as the home of the great Sufi mystic Rumi and the Whirling Dervishes. Visit the Mevlana Museum, admire the striking architecture of the Alaeddin Mosque, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this ancient center of learning and faith. Travel along the old Silk Road to the magnificent Sultanhanı Caravanserai, a splendid example of Seljuk architecture. Explore its grand stone courtyards and chambers, and imagine the caravans of traders who once sought refuge here during their long journeys across Anatolia. Continue to Saratlı, where you’ll descend into the fascinating Saratlı Underground City.

Experience the magical landscapes and unique heritage of Cappadocia with a tour through its most iconic sites. Begin your journey at the enchanting Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient rock-cut churches adorned with vibrant frescoes, offering an incredible glimpse into early Christian history. Continue to the mystical Zelve Valley, once home to one of Cappadocia’s largest communities. Next, visit Paşabağı (Monks Valley), famous for its striking, multi-headed fairy chimneys. Stroll among these unique natural formations and discover the hermit cells and chapels carved into the soft volcanic rock. Conclude your tour at Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia.

Transfer to the airport for your flight. The end of our services.