Hatay
Destinations
Titus Tu el
Located in the Samandağ district of Hatay, the Titus Tu el is an engineering marvel built during the Roman period to prevent floods. This 1,380-meter-long tu el carved into the mountain slopes was completed by human power and is still an awe-inspiring structure. In 2014, the tu el was added to UNESCO''s World Heritage Temporary List. With its natural environment and historical atmosphere, the Titus Tu el is a unique place for both history and nature lovers.
Besıklı Gallery Crypt
Located right next to the Titus Tu el, the Cradle Cave contains rock tombs from the Roman period. The cave attracts attention with its galleries supported by columns and carved tombs. Thought to have been used as a sacred area throughout history, the Cradle Cave fascinates its visitors with its mystical atmosphere. Together with the Titus Tu el, this area offers an unforgettable experience where history and nature come together.
Located in the Antakya district of Hatay, the Necmi Asfuroğlu Archeology Museum is an impressive museum located in the basement of a modern hotel, displaying the history and cultural richness of the region. The museum has impressive mosaics from the Roman period and a unique design based on ancient structures. Another striking mosaic is the 1050 square meter mosaic, which is considered the "largest single-piece mosaic in the world." The huge floor mosaic and the interactive exhibitions in the museum offer visitors an unforgettable experience. This museum, where the past and modernity come together, is a must-see for those who want to explore the historical texture of Hatay every day of the week, between 08:30 and 16:30.
One of the largest mosaic museums in the world, Hatay Archaeology Museum sheds light on the rich history of the region. Located in Antakya Cumhuriyet Square, on the banks of the Asi River and near the bridge, Hatay Archaeology Museum has a historically important location. The museum, filled with artifacts dating from the Paleolithic period to the Roman and Byzantine periods, is particularly notable for its mosaics. Mosaics unearthed from ancient settlements such as Daphne, Antakya and Samandağ offer a fascinating combination of art and history. In addition, sculptures, coins and stone artifacts are among the museum''s other important collections. It is a must-visit museum for those who want to witness Hatay''s deep-rooted past.
Located in the Antakya district of Hatay, Saint Pierre Church is a structure of great importance in the history of Christianity. It is a natural cave and has been converted into a church with additions. Although the exact date of construction is unknown; it is believed to be the place where Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, first preached and that the congregation first took the name 'Christian' in the cave. For this reason, St. Pierre Church is known as the first church of Christianity. This structure is one of the first cave churches in the world. The church is carved into a natural rock and attracts attention with its historical atmosphere and religious meaning. Declared a place of pilgrimage for Christians by Pope Paul VI in 1963, Saint Pierre Church is a unique place that combines history and religious heritage.