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ARTS AND CULTURE

Muslim Turkey's Christian heritage

  • 18 February 2009

In seeking ancient Christian sites in Turkey, it is notable that 99.8 per cent of Turkey's citizens are Muslim, yet they preserve and share their cultural history; many Christian sites are revered by Muslims as well. Turkey, being a crossroads between Europe and Asia, was traversed throughout history by peoples of more beliefs than are known today. Ruins and restorations dot its landscape, hinting of past art and cultures long lost to time. (Click on an image to view large version.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Baptismal re-creation near where the Virgin Mary might have lived. Selcuk.

2. Library of Celsus. Ephesus.

3. Ruins of Basilica of St John stand over his tomb. Selcuk.

4. Hercules holding lion skin around shoulders. Ephesus. 

5. Temple of Hadrian. Ephesus.

6. Corinthian Column. Ephesus.

Jeanne Conte is an avid traveler, author and photographer. She writes from Midwest America.