The remnants of ancient Roman and Greek monuments remain some of the most iconic structures in the Western world. But now it is the ancient monuments of the Eastern Mediterranean that are beginning to attract the attention of visitors.
Turkey is by far the best example. A mixture of Hellenic and Islamic styles and cultures, Turkey has long been seen to be the bridge between East and West. The ancient city of Istanbul, built upon the site of Constantinople, attracts millions of visitors each year. But archaeologists are unearthing more and more monuments dating back thousands of years. The ancient and iconic city of Troy, for example, immortalised through Homer’s Iliad, is located in Hisarlik in Anatolia. Its ruins have been excavated so that visitors can walk in the footsteps of Achilles, Hector, Odysseus, Ajax and Paris.
As Turkey has sought to develop its tourist industry, such sites are now readily accessible. Cheap holidays to Turkey with Cosmos
allow visitors to explore these ancient sites – all whilst enjoying the hospitality and facilities of the Turkish beach resorts. By combining the two, holidaymakers can mix ancient culture with modern pleasures. An excellent example is Bodrum, located on the Aegean coast. Bodrum blends beautiful beaches with ancient greatness. It was the site of the Mausoleum of Mausolus, who ruled ancient Halicarnassos from 376-353BC, and was one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. There’s also an excellent view of the nearby sprawling castle of St Peter, which was built by the Crusader Knights of St John from 1437-1522.
If crusader architecture inspires you, why not head to Cyprus and explore one of the great crusader kingdoms? Captured by Richard the Lionheart during the Third Crusade, it became the seat of King of Jerusalem after Saladin forced the crusaders from the Levant, before being captured by the Ottomans in 1571. As a consequence, Cypriot architecture is a blend of styles, reflecting its rich history. Nowhere is this better represented than the city of Famagusta. The Lala Mustafa Pasha mosque is the largest medieval building in Famagusta, but was once a Catholic cathedral.
This region has long enchanted visitors. And by seeing these sites for yourselves, you’ll certainly see why!
Cosmos Holidays is one of the largest and most established brands in UK tour operating. You can find more information including our Turkey and Cyprus holiday guides by visiting www.cosmos.co.uk