1. THE CRADLE OF CHRISTIANITY

    Throughout history, these lands have been the intersection point of three major monotheistic religions. Although Christianity originated in Israel, it took root in Asia Minor (present-day Turkey). The geography and history of Anatolia embraced this new religion. When you read the Bible - Acts of the Apostles, Letter to the Galatians, or the Book of Revelation - you embark on a journey through Asia Minor step by step. Therefore, a journey to these lands becomes a pilgrimage in both material and spiritual terms. Many historical sites in Turkey not only bear traces of ancient cultures. These places in Asia Minor played a central role in the development and spread of early Christianity.

    In Antioch (Antiochia), followers of the Bible were first called "Christians." Ephesus in western Asia Minor was the center of Apostle Paul's activities. In Troas at the Dardanelles, Paul received the call to go to Greece. Paul and his companions traveled through Central Anatolia during three missionary journeys, and the Letter to the Galatians is a vivid witness to Paul's connection with the communities in this region.

    The recipients of the letters sent to the seven churches in the Book of Revelation were also communities in western Asia Minor. The church's teachings and Christian life were discussed in councils during early Christianity. Seven ecumenical councils took place in Asia Minor. The separation of Eastern and Western churches was completed in ancient Constantinople (Istanbul). The Letters to the Colossians and to Philemon shed light on the beginning period of Christianity. Also, Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus) was born here in the 4th century, just as Paul was born in Tarsus.

    Asia Minor, today's Turkey, is a country deeply rooted in Biblical and theological history.

    Why should you travel to Turkey? Because here you can learn more about the origins of religion and feel how difficult it was to have a monotheistic faith at that time. We should reach out to each other and journey to Christianity's first pilgrimage sites. There are many reasons to visit Turkey to learn about Christian roots and understand the struggles faced by the young church. The New Testament often mentions "Greeks." Sometimes this term means non-Jews or "pagans," and sometimes it refers to Greek-speaking people living in Roman territories. Most stories in the New Testament take place in Asia Minor, where Turkey is located, not in present-day Greece. Only a few stories, such as the Letter to the Corinthians, refer to communities in present-day Greece. In any case, we encounter 35 geographical names within today's Turkish borders in the New Testament, including Paul's stops: 12 regions and 23 cities. In this respect, only Palestine can be considered more "Biblical."

    Accompanied by fascinating landscapes, you will reach cities that have become ruins. These cities come back to life when we listen to historical stories. A journey through world, religious, cultural, and art history. On this journey, you will encounter traces of Alexander the Great, Hannibal, Paul, Friedrich Barbarossa, and many other historical figures. Additionally, the rich heritage of Greek and Roman culture accompanies us in these lands. The three major monotheistic religions also meet here.

    Finally, today's Turkey offers visitors many things: magnificent landscapes, remains of 38 different high civilizations, wonderful coasts, colorful markets, and most importantly, traditionally hospitable people.