Discover the best top things to do in Konya Province, Turkey including Esrefoglu Mosque, Aziziye Mosque, Sille, Konya Science Center, Tinaztepe Cavern, Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden.
Restaurants in Konya Province
4.5 based on 230 reviews
Aziziye Mosque combines Baroque and traditional Ottoman architecture in a pleasing way. The original Mosque was commissioned in the late 17th century by Damat Mustafa Pasha (husband of Hatice Sultan, the daughter of sultan Mehmet IV). Unfortunately, it was destroyed in a fire in 1867, but was recommissioned by Pertevniyal, the mother of sultan Abdülaziz in 1874. (It's name Aziziye refers to Abdülaziz). The stone mosque square is in plan, with twin minarets flanking the main entrance. Minaret şerefe (balcony) roofs are supported by columns in a style unusual in Turkey. The şadırvans (water fountains) are adjacent to the minarets. The narthex (porch) has three small domes supported by six marble pillars, and the massive wood door is reminiscent of Baroque cathedral doors. Atypically, the mosque's main floor is elevated, accessed by stairs. The praying hall is square with a large dome, tastefully decorated, and well illuminated by large windows. The mihrab (niche pointing to Mecca) and mimber (pulpit) are dark bluish marble framed by gilded Baroque embellishments. I found the mosque to be a peaceful place for contemplation, and appreciated the architects skill in combining the Baroque and Ottoman architectural elements in a pleasing style. Aziziye mosque is beautifully lit at night. It is open daily with no entry fee, although a donation is appreciated. It is an active mosque, so may be closed during prayers.
4.5 based on 625 reviews
This is the most atmospheric and beautiful place I saw in Konya. Reachable by bus from the city center, it's only 25 minutes away from Alaaddin hill. Sille used to be a Christian village before the population exchange between Greece and Turkey and it is said to have been one of Rumi's favorite places after he supposedly witnessed a miracle in the local church. Sille preserves some of the old buildings, has a stream flowing along its main street and is surrounded by small rocky mountains on both sides. There are abandoned cave dwellings on one side but access to them was forbidden when I visited. The Greek church has been turned into a museum and the doorpost at the entrance contains an inscription in Karamanlica which is old Turkish written in Greek characters. If you climb up to the Zaman müzesi, a museum of clocks and watches that most likely was a church in the past, you'll see a stone bridge that you may reach by crossing the road. Any time or season is ok to visit this beautiful place.
4.5 based on 220 reviews
It’s one of the best places in Turkey to learn about science! You can find expositions, a planetarium and many other activities
4.5 based on 543 reviews
Konya Tropical Butterfly Garden is the garden which has biggest butterfly flying field in Europe and first in Turkey. You will discover the enormous colours jewels, butterflies, in their natural habitat. You will witness their Harmony with nature and also each other and you will get a chance to see motifs on their gracious wings.
Tropical Butterfly Garden is one of the most important places to see in Konya. They have created a tropical garden with warm temperature and high humidity; you feel like you are in a rain forest when you step in. There are many species of exotic butterflies, I have counted 10 of them; you can observe their flights, feeding and their exit from cocoons. Lower level of the garden is a nice information center for butterflies and other insects. It is a really interesting and educational place especially for children.
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