ISTANBUL

A new book from Yaşar Yılmaz, “Ancient Cities of Turkey,” has provided a comprehensive overview of 118 ancient cities located in Anatolia and Thrace.

The ancient cities outlined in the guide, published as two separate books in Turkish and in English, are presented to local and foreign fans of history and archaeology in the form of short but satisfying texts, accompanied by photographs, current maps and road descriptions. 

In addition to significant structures that form the core of the city such as the market place, fountains, theaters and baths, there are also historical personalities, social, cultural, economic and political characters. The 196-page book was published by YEM Publications.

February/25/2014

Film site for Ottoman era TV productions

MUĞLA - Anadolu Agency

A number of historical structures are being restored for film productions. 

Cultural authorities in the southwestern province of Muğla are moving to restore a number of historical structures, including mosques, inns and bridges, in the Yatağan district after the sites began drawing the attention of film and TV producers.

“Lots of examples of civilian architecture are being kept alive in our district. So far, certain structures have been restored in the area, but now 13 more structures will be restored, too. This area will be a complete area for filming,” said Yaşar Gencel, the mayor of the town of Bozüyük, in which the sites are located.

Local and foreign tourists from places like Belgium, Norway, France and the United Kingdom, who have learned about the district on television thanks to films and series, are coming in increasing numbers to the area to snap photos.

Gencel said the district was a natural place for filming due to its Ottoman buildings, which were built by Süleyman the Magnificent ahead of his campaign to conquer Rhodes.

“An Ottoman district, Bozüyük sheds light on history with its well-preserved texture,” he said, calling the restoration efforts a “street reinforcement” project.

About 40 percent of the site is an urban archaeological site, the mayor said, noting that a number of locals were also taking part in productions.

February/19/2014

Tanpınar museum and library: Shrine for Turkish literature

ISTANBUL hürriyet daily news

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The museum is open to literary enthusiasts during weekdays between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m

The Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar Literature Museum Library in Istanbul is housed in a historical 16th century building close to the Topkapı Palace and dedicated to Turkish literature. The museum is named after renowned 20th century Turkish author, Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar, one of the most formative figures in modern Turkish literature. Tanpınar’s books are beginning to draw an increasing interest in the English-speaking world, 50 years after his death.....

http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/tanpinar-museum-and-library-shrine-for-turkish-literature.aspx?pageID=238&nID=62728&NewsCatID=385