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7 Myths and Legends from Ancient Turkey

Turkey is a land where just about every stone whispers stories of the past, and somewhere in the world’s most interesting legends. The ancient folklore of Turkey is as rich, colorful and dramatic as its landscapes, with tales of gods and goddesses, somnambulist kings, creatures of the sea, love and war, court intrigue, witchcraft and more. There’s always a mythical story waiting to be discovered whether you are strolling through ancient ruins sipping tea in a bazaar blowing through.

With one foot in the academy of the history buffs and one in the academy of the fantasy lovers, a Turkey Tour is the ideal way to get a taste of Turkey's magical past for travelers who enjoy a little dash of fantasy in their history. While you are roaming this beautiful country, you will be enchanted by legends that have molded its culture for hundreds of years. 

Here are the 7 Myths and Legends from Ancient Turkey

1. The Birth of Troy

Troy is one of Turkey’s most legendary locations and it is believed to be the place where the famous Trojan War took place. The myth is about a giant wooden horse, a clever plot and the love story of Paris and Helen. It is possible to visit the ancient city ruins in Canakkale and actually step into the very pages of Homer’s Iliad, where myth and history come together in the most fascinating way.

2. Mount Ararat and Noah’s Ark

It is said that Noah’s Ark landed on Mount Ararat Turkey’s highest peak is after the great flood. The mountain has remained a source of fascination for both scientists and spiritual seekers, although nobody has officially found the Ark. The tale of Ararat is either true or not, but the beauty and mystery of the mountain draws travelers from all over the world.

3. The Legend of King Midas

King Midas is the man who could turn everything he touched into gold. He is said to have ruled in ancient Phrygia (central Turkey). Although the golden touch became a curse, his tale remains an inspiration. The Midas Monument in Yazılıkaya, a proof of the mixing of mythology and ancient culture is still there to visit.

4. The Tale of the Maiden’s Tower

Istanbul’s Maiden’s Tower is on a tiny islet in the Bosphorus and has many legends attached to it. This is the most famous tell of a princess hidden by her father after a prophecy foretold her death by a snake. Unfortunately, fate caught up with her anyway. Now, the tower has stunning views and a drastic, mystery air that reflects its mythological past.

5. The Fire-Breathing Chimera

Yanartaş is in southern Turkey near the town of Cirali and is where flames have been burning from rocky vents for thousands of years. The Chimera was a mythical fire breathing creature part lion, goat, and snake, ancient people believed it was the breath of the Chimera. The eternal flames are a mystical visit whether you are into mythology or geology.

6. The Legend of the Lovers of Aphrodisias

Ancient city Aphrodisias had been telling its own versions of romantic tales. One such story involves two lovers whose love for each other defied social norms and was turned into stone. In walking through the ancient ruins with well-preserved stadium and temples you almost feel their presence as if it was yesterday.

7. The Cave of the Seven Sleepers

In both Christian and Islamic traditions this is a tale of seven young men who took refuge in a cave near Ephesus and went to sleep for hundreds upon hundreds of years. The world had changed completely when they awoke. The Cave of the Seven Sleepers is today still a pilgrimage site and powerfully symbols of faith, mystery and timelessness.

Conclusion

Turkey’s already rich history is further enriched by its mythical past. Every corner seems to be just coming from an ancient city to a sacred mountain, there is a story to tell. The tales of Troy or Chimera’s immortal flames blazing in the night deepen your connection with this enchanting land, wherever you are whether exploring the ruins of Troy or simply listening to the tales of that one shared molestation in the village.

If you’re interested in visiting all these sites just book a Turkey Tour Package which not only provides you with a visit of all these sites but also enjoys the enchanting expertise of local charm. And history and fantasy is the best guide for the next adventure.

 

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