Turkey UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The UNESCO Sites in Turkey have resulted in the recognition of 19 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey and 84 locations on the Turkey UNESCO tentative list. These touristic sites in Turkey are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

In addition to these 19 sites in the Turkey UNESCO list, there are many other places to travel to Turkey that are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.

To help visitors discover these remarkable Turkey tourist attractions, we have assembled an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Turkey.

Turkey UNESCO Map

Click markers to show information and photo.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey

There are 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey. All of these nineteen sites are listed under the Cultural category.

• Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia
• Great Mosque and Hospital of Divriği
• Historic Areas of Istanbul
• Hattusha: the Hittite Capital
• Nemrut Dağ
• Hierapolis-Pamukkale
• Xanthos-Letoon
• City of Safranbolu
• Archaeological Site of Troy
• Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex
• Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük
• Bursa and Cumalıkızık: the Birth of the Ottoman Empire
• Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape
• Diyarbakır Fortress and Hevsel Gardens Cultural Landscape
• Ephesus
• Archaeological Site of Ani
• Aphrodisias
• Göbekli Tepe
• Arslantepe Mound

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.

Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia

This unique geological wonder is home to fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and fresco-adorned churches carved into volcanic rock formations. It’s a remarkable example of how humans have adapted to and created a harmonious relationship with their environment.

Great Mosque and Hospital of Divriği

This 13th-century mosque and hospital complex is a prime example of Seljuk architecture and is considered one of the greatest works of Islamic religious architecture. It’s intricate stone carvings and Islamic calligraphy make it a true gem of Turkish architecture.

Historic Areas of Istanbul

This sprawling metropolis was once the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Its rich history is reflected in its stunning architecture, such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The city is a melting pot of cultures and religions, making it a unique destination for history buffs.

Hattusha

This ancient city was once the capital of the mighty Hittite Empire and is now an archaeological site that sheds light on this ancient civilization. Visitors can wander through well-preserved temples, palaces, and fortresses and imagine life in this once-great city.

Nemrut Dağ

This incredible mountaintop site is home to massive statues and terraces built by King Antiochus I of Commagene. The statues and the stunning views from the top of the mountain make this site a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient civilizations.

Hierapolis-Pamukkale

This stunning site features hot springs that have created terraces of travertine, a mineral deposit, which look like cascading waterfalls. The ancient city of Hierapolis, built on top of these terraces, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Romans and their relationship with thermal waters.

Xanthos-Letoon

These ancient cities were once the political and religious centers of the Lycian civilization. Visitors can explore well-preserved temples, tombs, and theater, as well as the impressive Nereid Monument, a rock-cut tomb that is a testament to the skill of Lycian architects and sculptors.

City of Safranbolu

This well-preserved Ottoman town is a testament to traditional Turkish architecture and urban planning. Visitors can stroll through narrow cobbled streets, admire traditional Ottoman houses, and learn about the town’s rich history as an important center of commerce and culture.

Archaeological Site of Troy

This ancient city was made famous by Homer’s Iliad and is now an archaeological site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the ancient world. Visitors can explore the well-preserved city walls, the palace of King Priam, and the Temple of Athena, among other highlights.

Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex

This stunning mosque, designed by the great Ottoman architect Sinan, is considered one of the greatest works of Islamic architecture. The complex also includes a market, baths, and a hospital, offering a complete picture of life in the Ottoman era.

Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük

This prehistoric settlement offers a glimpse into the lives of the world’s first farmers. Visitors can explore well-preserved homes and temples and learn about the sophisticated social and religious systems that developed in this ancient community.

Bursa and Cumalıkızık

These two towns in Turkey are considered the birthplace of the Ottoman Empire. Bursa was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and is filled with beautiful Ottoman architecture, including the Green Mosque and the Grand Mosque. Cumalıkızık is a well-preserved Ottoman village that offers a unique insight into traditional Turkish village life. Both towns offer a glimpse into the early days of the Ottoman Empire and its unique blend of Turkish, Islamic, and Balkan cultural influences.

Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape

A city rich in ancient history, Pergamon was once a thriving center of culture and knowledge. Its multi-layered cultural landscape includes the famous Pergamon Altar, the Asclepeion healing center, and the Library of Pergamon which held over 200,000 scrolls and was considered one of the greatest of the ancient world.

Diyarbakır Fortress and Hevsel Gardens

This cultural landscape in southeastern Turkey showcases the region’s rich history, with a fortification dating back to Roman times and the lush Hevsel Gardens cultivated for over 2,000 years. The gardens are an oasis in the city’s heart, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling streets.

Ephesus

A well-preserved ancient city, Ephesus was once a thriving center of commerce and culture. Its highlights include the stunning Celsus Library, the magnificent Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theater which seated up to 25,000 people. Ephesus offers a glimpse into the daily life of the ancient world, with well-preserved streets, homes, and public buildings.

Archaeological Site of Ani

Once a vibrant city on the crossroads of ancient trade routes, Ani is now an archaeological site in modern-day Turkey. The city’s ruins feature impressive examples of Armenian architecture, including the Cathedral of Ani and the Church of the Redeemer, as well as the impressive city walls surrounding the city.

Aphrodisias

A city dedicated to the goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, Aphrodisias was a center of learning and culture in the ancient world. Its highlights include the Temple of Aphrodite, the beautifully preserved Theater, and the well-preserved Stadium, which could seat up to 30,000 spectators.

Göbekli Tepe

A site that predates Stonehenge by 6,000 years, Göbekli Tepe is a fascinating example of early human architecture. The site features massive T-shaped pillars and intricate carvings, providing insight into the beliefs and rituals of our earliest ancestors.

Arslantepe Mound

This ancient city in southeastern Turkey dates back to the 5th millennium BCE and offers a unique look into the early civilizations of the region. Its highlights include a well-preserved palace, temples, and defensive walls, as well as impressive metalworking workshops that suggest the city was a center of trade and industry.

Turkey UNESCO tentative list

1. Karain Cave
2. Sümela Monastery (The Monastery of Virgin Mary)
3. Alahan Monastery
4. St. Nicholas Church
5. Harran and Sanliurfa
6. The Tombstones of Ahlat the Urartian and Ottoman citadel
7. Seljuk Caravanserais on the route from Denizli to Dogubeyazit
8. Konya-A capital of Seljuk Civilization
9. Alanya
10. Mardin Cultural Landscape
11. St.Paul Church, St.Paul’s Well and surrounding historic quarters
12. Ishak Pasha Palace
13. Kekova
14. Güllük Dagi-Termessos National Park
15. Ancient Cities of Lycian Civilization
16. Archaeological Site of Sagalassos
17. Archaeological Site of Perge
18. Esrefoglu Mosque
19. Hatay, St. Pierre Church
20. Aizanoi Antique City
21. Archeological Site of Zeugma
22. Gordion
23. Historic Town of Birgi
24. Mausoleum and Sacred area of Hecatomnus
25. Medieval City of Beçin
26. Historical Monuments of Niğde
27. Yesemek Quarry and Sculpture Workshop
28. Odunpazari Historical Urban Site
29. Mamure Castle
30. Haci Bektas Veli Complex
31. Archaeological site of Laodikeia
32. Lake Tuz Special Environmental Protection Area (SEPA)
33. The Ancient City of Sardis and the Lydian Tumuli of Bin Tepe
34. İznik
35. Zeynel Abidin Mosque Complex and Mor Yakup (Saint Jacob) Church
36. Tomb of Ahi Evran
37. Vespasianus Titus Tunnel
38. Mahmut Bey Mosque
39. Archaeological Site of Kültepe-Kanesh
40. Ancient City of Kaunos
41. Anatolian Seljuks Madrasahs
42. Ancient City of Korykos
43. Ancient City of Anazarbos
44. Çanakkale (Dardanelles) and Gelibolu (Gallipoli) Battles Zones in the First World War
45. Eflatun Pinar: The Hittite Spring Sanctuary
46. Akdamar Church
47. The Theatre and Aqueducts of the Ancient City of Aspendos
48. Eshab-ı Kehf Kulliye (Islamic-Ottoman Social Complex)
49. Historic Guild Town of Mudurnu
50. Mount Harşena and the Rrock-tombs of the Pontic Kings
51. Mountainous Phrygia
52. Ancient City of Stratonikeia
53. The Bridge of Uzunköprü
54. Ismail Fakirullah Tomb and its Light Refraction Mechanism
55. Yıldız Palace Complex
56. The Malabadi Bridge
57. Tushpa/Van Fortress, the Mound and the Old City of Van
58. Sultan Bayezid II Complex: A Center of Medical Treatment
59. Yivli Minaret Mosque
60. Sivrihisar Great Mosque
61. The Bodrum Castle
62. Nuruosmaniye Complex
63. Ancient city of Kibyra
64. Haci Bayram Mosque and its Surrounding Area (the Haci Bayram District)
65. Kızılırmak Delta Wetland and Bird Sanctuary
66. Archaeological Site of Assos
67. Ayvalık Industrial Landscape
68. Ivriz Cultural Landscape
69. Early Period of Anatolian Turkish Heritage: Niksar, The Capital of Danishmend Dynasty
70. The Underground Water Structures in Gaziantep; Livas’ and Kastels
71. Wooden Roofed and Wooden Columned Mosques in Anatolia
72. The Bridge of Justinian
73. Archaeological Site of Priene
74. Historic City of Harput
75. Basilica Therma (Sarıkaya Roma Hamamı)
76. Nature Park of Ballıca Cave
77. Trading Posts and Fortifications on Genoese Trade Routes from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea
78. Historic Town of Beypazarı
79. Karatepe-Aslantaş Archaeological Site
80. The Historical Port City of Izmir
81. Zerzevan Castle and Mithraeum
82. Koramaz Valley
83. Late Antique and Medieval Churches and Monasteries of Midyat and Surrounding Area (Tur ʿAbdin)
84. Historic Town of Kemaliye

Tours in Turkey

Our choices of tours in Turkey are divided into thematic features such as Bursa, Göbekli Tepe, Arslantepe Mound, Aphrodisias, and the Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia Experience.