Sanliurfa

Said to be Biblical Ur, where the Prophet Abraham was born and began his monotheistic teachings, Sanliurfa is one of Turkey's great pilgrimage cities. In ancient times, it was known as Edessa and was prized by conquerors from Alexander the Great onward.

Today, this city's rich history and architecture makes it one of the best places in the country if you want to dive into Turkey's culture and heritage.

As well as Urfa's central district, crammed with historical things to do, including the sacred carp pools of Gölbaşı and a contemporary museum complex that ranks among one of the best in Turkey, there are many ruins scattered across the surrounding countryside.

The main tourist attraction for visitors today is the archaeological site of Göbeklitepe, just on the city's outskirts, where humanity may have first began religious belief.