Konya

Here’s a two-day itinerary for Konya, Turkey, which highlights the city’s spiritual heritage, historical sites, and local flavors.

Day 1: Mevlana Museum & Historical Sites

Morning

            •          Mevlana Museum: Start your day at the Mevlana Museum, one of Konya’s most important landmarks. This museum is the mausoleum of Rumi (Mevlana), the famous Sufi poet and philosopher. It’s a peaceful place with beautiful architecture, gardens, and exhibits on Sufism and Rumi’s teachings.

            •          Aziziye Mosque: A short walk from the Mevlana Museum, this 17th-century Ottoman mosque features unique Baroque and Rococo architectural details and is known for its double minarets and intricate woodwork.

Afternoon

            •          Alaaddin Hill & Alaaddin Mosque: Head to Alaaddin Hill, a green park in the center of Konya. At the top, you’ll find Alaaddin Mosque, one of the oldest and largest mosques in the city, dating back to the Seljuk period. The views from the hill give a nice perspective of Konya’s skyline.

            •          Karatay Madrasa: Visit this 13th-century Islamic school, now a museum showcasing beautiful tilework and artifacts from the Seljuk period. It provides an insight into Konya’s rich history as a cultural center of the Seljuks.

Evening

            •          Dinner in Konya’s City Center: Try local Konya dishes like etli ekmek (a thin, long Turkish pizza with meat) or tirit (a traditional lamb and bread dish). Somatçı Fihi Ma Fih and Tiritçi Mithat are popular options for traditional Konya cuisine.

            •          Whirling Dervishes Ceremony (Sema): If available, attend a Sema ceremony to witness the famous whirling dervishes, a spiritual dance performed by followers of Mevlana Rumi. The Mevlana Cultural Center hosts performances regularly, especially on Saturdays.

Day 2: Archaeological Sites & Local Villages

Morning

            •          Sille Village: About a 15-minute drive from Konya, this historic village is known for its Greek Orthodox roots and peaceful atmosphere. Visit Aya Elena Church, a well-preserved Byzantine church, and stroll through the narrow streets lined with stone houses, cafes, and local shops.

Afternoon

            •          Çatalhöyük: Head to Çatalhöyük, one of the world’s oldest Neolithic settlements, located about 45 minutes from Konya. This UNESCO World Heritage site provides fascinating insights into early human civilization, with ancient homes, murals, and artifacts dating back over 9,000 years.

Evening

            •          Dinner Back in Konya: Return to Konya for dinner. Enjoy local flavors at Konya Mutfağı or Ali Baba Fırın Kebap, known for their flavorful kebabs and regional specialties.

This two-day itinerary offers a mix of spiritual, historical, and archaeological experiences that showcase Konya’s unique heritage and serene beauty. Enjoy your visit!