Best Places to Visit and See in Konya

Konya is located in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey and is one of the largest provinces in the country by surface area. Drawing attention with its historical and cultural depth, rich natural beauty and mystical atmosphere, Konya is one of the deep-rooted cities of Anatolia. Having hosted many civilizations throughout history, this city carries the traces of the Ottoman Empire and Seljuk State periods to the present day.

The history of Konya dates back to the Neolithic Age. The city has hosted many civilizations throughout history, including the Hittites, Phrygians, Lydians and Persians. However, one of the most important historical periods of Konya is the Seljuk State period. Chosen as the capital of the Seljuk State in the 12th century, Konya became the center of cultural and scientific developments during this period.

The fact that Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, one of the most important figures of the Seljuk period, lived here made Konya a world-renowned cultural and religious center. Mevlana's teachings and works made the city the center of Sufism and Sufism.

You can review our list of places to visit in Konya, which we have prepared for those who will visit Konya, the city of Mevlana, which is full of history, below, and easily buy your ticket with Bilet.com Konya flight ticket opportunities and start exploring this city with your loved ones.

Mevlana Museum and Dervish Area

Mevlana Museum and Dervish Area is a complex located in the heart of Konya and is one of the most important spiritual centers of the city. Reflecting the mystical atmosphere of Konya, this area is a unique place to visit for those who want to discover the life, teachings and Sufi culture of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi.

The Mevlana Museum houses the tomb of the famous mystic poet and thinker Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi. Mevlana, who lived in the 13th century, is one of the most important figures of Sufism and Sufism. The tomb was built in his memory after Mevlana's death and is a place where visitors pay their respects. It is known for being an elegant example of Seljuk architecture and a place famous for its spiritual atmosphere.

The Dervish Area, located right next to the Mevlana Museum, is an open-air venue where sema ceremonies are held. Sema ceremonies are a type of mystical dance in which Mevlevi dervishes express their love for God. During the ceremonies, the dervishes wear white robes and black cardigans and whirl as whirling dervishes.

Alaeddin Hill and Alaeddin Mosque

Alaeddin Hill and the Alaeddin Mosque located on it are one of the most important works of the Anatolian Seljuk State. This historical structure rising in the center of Konya has great importance both architecturally and culturally.

Alaeddin Hill

Alaeddin Hill has been the city center for centuries. Archaeological excavations on this hill show that the region has been inhabited since ancient times. During the Seljuk period, the hill became the religious and administrative center of the city. In addition to the Alaeddin Mosque, there are various tombs, madrasahs and other historical structures on the hill.

Alaeddin Mosque

Alaeddin Mosque is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Anatolian Seljuk architecture. Its construction began in the 12th century and was completed in the 13th century. The mosque has a large courtyard where the tombs of the Seljuk sultans are located. The tombs in the courtyard are some of the most beautiful examples of Seljuk period stonework.

Karatay Madrasa and Tile Works

Karatay Madrasah is one of the most important madrasahs of the Anatolian Seljuk period and currently serves as a museum containing the most beautiful examples of tile art. Built by Emir Celaleddin Karatay in 1251, the madrasah represents the pinnacle of Seljuk art with both its architecture and decorations.

The madrasah was built in accordance with the classical Seljuk madrasah plan. It is a single-iwan, single-storey structure with a closed courtyard. The interior spaces of the madrasah, especially the iwan and cells, are covered with tiles decorated with geometric and plant motifs. These tiles are among the most original and beautiful examples of Seljuk tile art.

Tile Works

Karatay Madrasah has been open to visitors as the "Tile Works Museum" since 1955. Most of the tiles exhibited in the museum were unearthed from the excavations at Kubadabad Palace on the shores of Lake Beyşehir. These tiles are decorated with crosses, stars and geometric shapes and demonstrate various techniques of Seljuk tile art.

Tropical Butterfly Garden

Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden is an ideal option for those who want to be in touch with nature and observe exotic creatures in Konya! In this garden, where you can have a pleasant time among the places to visit with your family in Konya, thousands of butterflies will fascinate you with their colorful wings.

Tropical Butterfly Garden is located near Konya city center and is very easy to reach. The garden is located in a green area and offers visitors a natural environment. There are different types of tropical butterflies in the garden. These butterflies, which are colorful and have various patterns, show visitors the aesthetics and diversity of nature.

The garden features informative panels and guides on the life cycle of butterflies, their behavior, and their impact on the ecosystem. This information allows visitors to learn more about butterflies.

In the garden, there are special educational corners and activities for children. In these corners, children can learn the life cycle of butterflies and have a pleasant time with various educational games. There are also areas in the garden where families can relax and have a picnic. You can spend time comfortably in nature.

Meram Vineyards

Konya Meram Vineyards is a natural wonder open to visitors as a peaceful area hidden within the natural beauties of Konya. An ideal destination for those who want to get away from the noise of the city center and be in touch with nature, Meram Vineyards attracts attention with both its natural and cultural riches.

Meram has been famous for its water, air and vineyards throughout history. This fame, which began in the Seljuk period, has continued for centuries. Meram Vineyards is not only a recreation area, but also an important part of historical and cultural heritage. Historical structures such as Meram Bath, Meram Bridge, Tavus Baba Tomb and Hasbey Mosque reveal the rich history of the region.

Some of the activities that can be done in Meram vineyards:

• Picnic: You can have a pleasant picnic with your family or friends.
• Nature Walks: You can enjoy nature by walking on the surrounding paths.
• Bicycle Tour: You can have a different experience by cycling through the vineyards.
• Visiting Historical Buildings: You can visit historical buildings such as Meram Bath and Meram Bridge.
• Relaxing in Cafes and Restaurants : You can sit in the tea gardens and enjoy nature.

Salt Lake and Flamingo Paradise

Salt Lake and Flamingo Paradise is one of the most impressive natural areas in Turkey, a great place to visit for both nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Salt Lake, located in the Central Anatolia Region, within the borders of Konya province, attracts attention with its enormous salt-covered area and rich avifauna. Flamingo Paradise is famous for the flamingo colonies living in the lake.

Flamingos in Salt Lake

Salt Lake is an important stopover because it is on the migration route of pink flamingos. Every year, thousands of flamingos reproduce in the lake and continue their lives here. The feathered structures of the flamingos take on a pink color due to the shrimp and algae they eat. For this reason, Salt Lake is also known as "Flamingo Paradise". People from all over the country come to visit the city to see these beautiful creatures, which contribute greatly to Konya's nature tourism.

Flamingo Paradise, located northeast of Salt Lake, is located in the marshlands of the lake. This area is a breeding and feeding area for flamingos. Flamingo Paradise attracts thousands of flamingos every year. Flamingos are seen in large colonies here, especially in spring and summer.

Salt Lake and Flamingo Sanctuary are generally open to the public and visitors can see these natural wonders without paying an entrance fee. However, some areas may have special permits or regulations, so it may be worthwhile to inquire before visiting.