Konya is home to a number of parks and green spaces that are perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. The city has a number of restaurants and cafes that serve a range of dishes to suit different tastes, and there are also many options for shopping and souvenir shopping.
If you are planning to visit Konya with your family, it is a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance to make sure that you have enough time to visit the attractions that interest you and your family.
It is also a good idea to be mindful of local customs and traditions and dress modestly and follow local laws and regulations. Remember that you can visit various mosques and churches in Konya that have a long history.
Overall, Konya is a welcoming and family-friendly destination that offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. With careful planning and a bit of cultural sensitivity, you and your family can have a memorable and enjoyable visit to this fascinating city.
History of Konya
The city of Konya was founded by the Hittites in the 2nd millennium BCE and was known as Iconium in ancient times. It was later conquered by the Persians and then the Romans, who made it the capital of the province of Lycaonia.
In the 7th century CE, Konya became an important center of Islam, and it was the capital of the Seljuk Empire from the 11th to the 13th centuries. During this time, Konya was home to the famous Persian poet Rumi and his Sufi order, the Mevlevi, who were known for their elaborate and rhythmic dance called the “sema.”
In the 13th century, Konya was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and remained an important city within the empire until the end of World War I. Today, Konya is a major cultural and economic center in Turkey, known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and industrial production.
Also, check out our list of the best cities to visit in Turkey when traveling with the family.
Whirling Dervishes in Konya
The Whirling Dervishes, also known as the Mevlevi Order, are a Sufi order founded by the famous Persian poet Rumi in the 13th century. The order is known for its practice of whirling as a form of meditation and spiritual devotion.
The Mevlevi Order was based in Konya, Turkey, and the city is still home to its spiritual center, the Mevlana Museum. Visitors to Konya can witness the Whirling Dervishes perform their traditional dance, the sema, at the museum.
The sema is a complex and rhythmic dance in which the dervishes spin on their left foot while wearing long, flowing robes. The dance is intended to represent the journey of the soul toward enlightenment and union with God.
The Whirling Dervishes are an important part of Konya’s cultural heritage, and their performances are a popular tourist attraction in the city. If you are interested in experiencing the sema, it is recommended to book tickets in advance as the performances can be very popular and may sell out.
Konya and Sufism
Sufism is a mystical branch of Islam that emphasizes inner spiritual development and the personal relationship between an individual and God. The Mevlevi Order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes, is a Sufi order founded by the famous Persian poet Rumi in the 13th century.
Konya, Turkey, was the home of the Mevlevi Order and is still home to their spiritual center, the Mevlana Museum. The city is an important center of Sufism and is known for its association with Rumi and the Mevlevi Order.
In addition to the Mevlana Museum, there are other places in Konya that are associated with Sufism and the Mevlevi Order, such as the tomb of Rumi, the tombs of other members of the order, and the Ince Minare Museum, which houses a collection of Sufi artifacts and art.
Sufism is an important part of the cultural and spiritual heritage of Konya and has had a significant influence on the city’s history and identity. If you are interested in learning more about Sufism and the Mevlevi Order, a visit to Konya is a great way to learn more about this fascinating aspect of Islamic culture.
Importance of Konya in Today’s Turkey
Economically, Konya is an important industrial center and is home to a number of major companies and factories. It is known for its production of textiles, automotive parts, and food products, and is an important contributor to Turkey’s economy.
Educationally, Konya is home to several universities and research institutions, including Selçuk University and the KTO Karatay University. These institutions attract students from around the country and contribute to the city’s status as an important center of higher education in Turkey.
Overall, Konya is an important city in contemporary Turkey and plays a significant role in the country’s cultural, economic, and educational spheres. Konya is also famous because of the tourism and you can get an urgent visa for Turkey if you wanted to visit Konya or other destination in Turkey with you family.
How Many Days to Spend in Konya for Tourism?
The amount of time you should spend in Konya for tourism depends on your interests and how much you want to see and do. If you are interested in exploring the city’s cultural and historical attractions, you could spend a few days in Konya to fully experience everything it has to offer.
Some of the top attractions in Konya include the Mevlana Museum, the Alaeddin Mosque, the Ince Minare Museum, the Seljuk Tower, and the Konya Citadel. You could spend a full day visiting these attractions and exploring the city’s other cultural and historical landmarks.
In addition to these attractions, Konya is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with a number of museums, galleries, and theaters to visit. You could also spend some time trying the local cuisine and shopping at the city’s markets and shops.
Overall, it is recommended to spend at least a few days in Konya to fully experience all that the city has to offer. This will give you enough time to visit the main attractions and also have some flexibility to explore at your own pace and discover the city’s hidden gems.
Konya’s Local Cuisine
Konya has a rich cultural heritage and diverse and flavorful local cuisine. Some of the dishes and ingredients that are commonly found in Konya’s cuisine include:
- Kebabs: Kebabs are a popular dish in Turkey and are commonly found in Konya. The city is known for its delicious lamb kebabs, which are made with marinated pieces of lamb that are grilled and served with rice, vegetables, and bread.
- Flatbread: Flatbread, known as “pide” in Turkey, is a common staple in Konya’s cuisine. It is often served with various toppings, such as cheese, meat, vegetables, or egg.
- Yogurt: Yogurt is an important ingredient in many Turkish dishes, and it is commonly found in Konya’s cuisine. It is often used in sauces, as a topping for dishes, or as a side dish.
- Lentil soup: Lentil soup, known as “mercimek çorbasi” in Turkish, is a popular dish in Konya. It is made with lentils, vegetables, and spices, and is often served with bread.
- Börek: Börek is a type of savory pastry that is popular in Konya and throughout Turkey. It is made with layers of phyllo dough and can be filled with various ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or vegetables.
In addition to these dishes, Konya is also known for its delicious Turkish desserts, such as baklava, kunefe, and helva. If you are visiting Konya, be sure to try some of these local dishes and desserts to fully experience the city’s culinary culture.
Famous Festivals in Konya
Konya is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a number of festivals and events that celebrate the city’s history and traditions. Some of the festivals and events that are held in Konya include:
- Mevlana Festival: This festival is held every December in honor of the famous Persian poet Rumi and his Sufi order, the Mevlevi. It includes a variety of cultural and religious events, such as concerts, lectures, and performances by the Whirling Dervishes.
- Konya International Film Festival: This film festival is held every year in November and showcases a variety of international and Turkish films. It includes film screenings, workshops, and other events.
- Konya Agriculture and Livestock Fair: This fair is held every year in October and is one of the largest agricultural and livestock events in Turkey. It includes exhibitions, demonstrations, and other events related to agriculture and livestock.
- Konya International Marathon: This marathon is held every year in April and attracts runners from around the world. It includes a full marathon, a half marathon, and a 10K race.
In addition to these festivals, Konya also hosts a number of other cultural and sporting events throughout the year. If you are planning to visit Konya, it is a good idea to check the local events calendar to see what is happening during your visit.
Is Konya Safe for Non-Muslims?
Konya is generally considered a safe place to visit. Non-Muslim tourists should be able to visit and experience the city’s attractions and culture without any issues. Follow this guide to get a Turkey visa for US citizens.
However, as with any destination, it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to ensure your safety. This might include avoiding large crowds, being aware of your personal belongings, and following local customs and laws.
It is also worth noting that Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when it comes to dress and behavior in public places. It is recommended to dress modestly and avoid making derogatory or offensive comments about Islam or other religions.
Overall, Konya is a safe and welcoming city for visitors of all backgrounds, and with some common-sense precautions, non-Muslim tourists should be able to enjoy their visit without any issues.
Can we Have Alcohol in Konya?
Yes, alcohol is widely available in Konya, Turkey, and can be purchased and consumed in licensed establishments, such as bars and restaurants. Alcohol is also sold in some supermarkets and liquor stores.
It is worth noting that while alcohol is generally accepted in Turkey, it is a predominantly Muslim country and some people may abstain from drinking alcohol for cultural or religious reasons. It is recommended to be respectful of local customs and traditions and to avoid drinking alcohol in public or in places where it may be inappropriate or offensive.
The legal drinking age in Turkey is 18 years old. If you are under the legal drinking age, you will not be able to purchase or consume alcohol in Konya or anywhere else in Turkey.
What Women Tourists Should Wear in Konya?
Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country and Konya is a city with a rich cultural heritage. While there is no specific dress code for women in Konya, it is generally recommended to dress modestly and to cover your shoulders and legs when visiting religious sites or other places of cultural or historical importance.
In general, it is a good idea to dress appropriately for the local culture and to be mindful of local customs and traditions. This might include avoiding clothing that is revealing or that might be seen as offensive or disrespectful.
In Konya, it is also a good idea to wear comfortable and modest clothing, as the city is hot and sunny for much of the year. Light, loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibers, such as cotton or linen, is a good choice.
Bikinis are generally considered swimwear and are typically worn at beaches or pools. In Konya, as in most parts of Turkey, bikinis are acceptable attire at beaches, pools, and other places where swimwear is appropriate. When visiting beaches or pools in Konya, it is a good idea to dress modestly and to cover up when not in the water.
Overall, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Konya or any other destination. By dressing modestly and being mindful of local norms, you can help ensure that your visit is enjoyable and respectful of the local culture.
My name is Rashid Nawaz. I have completed my degree in Mass Communication from South Asia University, Lahore, Pakistan. I have started my career as a News reporter and editor from the local Newspaper and now I am writing for different News websites, The Daily News Times is one of those great sites.
