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March 17, 2026 • 8 min read
Gaziantep is a paradise for discovery with its historically rich streets adorned with intricate details and mouthwatering flavors. In this enchanting city, it is possible to feel the spirit of the city starting from the foothills of the Gaziantep Castle. The castle proudly rises at the highest point of the city, having hosted different civilizations throughout history, and holds a unique story within each stone.
When you look at the city from the castle walls, the unique collections of the Zeugma Mosaic Museum seem to greet you with a wink. The mosaics showcasing the elegance of the ancient era are laid out before you like works of art. These pieces are beauties that have been preserved from the depths of history to the present day, transcending time.
As you move towards the city center, historical bazaars and handicraft workshops welcome you. Here, it is impossible not to admire the artistic creations that emerge from the skillful hands of copper craftsmen. Hidden details at every corner take you to another time period.
Gaziantep is famous not only for its history but also for its rich cuisine that appeals to the palate. Among the flavors you must try when you visit the city are Antep Ezme Salad and Antep Beyran; each offers a unique feast of flavors.
Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum is the largest mosaic museum in the world in terms of the colour scale of the mosaics exhibited. In the museum, which is one of the important museums in the world with its original exhibition organised according to the modern museology concept, approximately 3000 m² of mosaics, which were excavated from the ancient city of Zeugma located on the banks of the Euphrates River and whose restoration and conservation have been completed so far, are displayed.
When you come to Gaziantep, you cannot leave without tasting the city's famous flavors. The Gaziantep Küşleme Kebab, which you can find at every corner, leaves an unforgettable taste on the palate with the masterful cooking of the finest part of the meat. Alongside it, Antep Beyran offers another pleasure with its warming spices.
One of the important stops on your flavor journey is katmer. This sweet, prepared by placing plenty of pistachios and clotted cream between thinly rolled dough, is an essential part of breakfast. The best solution for those who crave something sweet is the syrup-soaked baklava.
While wandering through the historical bazaars, don’t forget to taste appetizers like Antep Ezme Salad and Antep Beyran to experience the different texture of the local cuisine. Each will brighten your table with its unique aroma.
One of the places you must visit while exploring the city is the restaurants adorned with modern touches. Here, you can try modern interpretations of local flavors and pay homage to Gaziantep's place in the world of gastronomy.
Zeugma is an important military and commercial center established at a strategic crossing point on the Euphrates River. Founded during the Hellenistic Period by Seleucid King I. Seleucus Nikator, it takes its name from the word 'Zeugma,' meaning 'crossing.' The city became a significant military base on the eastern frontier during the Roman period and experienced its wealthiest period particularly in the 2nd century A.D. It suffered great destruction due to the attack of Sasanian King I. Shapur in A.D. 253. Excavations between 1993 and 2003 uncovered numerous villas and famous floor mosaics. These mosaics, depicting mythological and daily life scenes, have made Zeugma an important center in terms of world cultural heritage. A portion of the ancient city was submerged under the waters of the Birecik Dam in 2000. Excavations are still ongoing.
Located within the borders of Yavuzeli District of Gaziantep Province, Rumkale is on steep rocks at the confluence of Merzimen Stream with the Euphrates River.
A multi-story modern shopping mall with international chain stores, a dining area, and a cinema.
The historical markets of Gaziantep take you deep into the past. The works of many artisans, from copper craftsmanship to traditional handicrafts, are displayed in these markets. These places, which have been the heart of trade throughout history, continue to maintain their vibrancy today.
The Copper Bazaar is one of the most important places where handcrafted works are showcased. Here, copper items shaped by the skillful hands of masters appeal to both the eye and the soul. It is possible to see the effort and artistry of the masters in every detail.
As you wander through these markets, you feel as if you are on a journey through history. Each shop holds a different story, and each street conceals another time period. Getting lost in this atmosphere and following the traces of the past allows you to feel the spirit of Gaziantep more deeply.
As you leave the market, you can immortalize this experience with small souvenirs that you can take with you. Especially items made of copper or handmade carpets will be beautiful memories that you can bring to your loved ones.
