Gaziantep is only 30 miles from the Syrian border. Everytime we saw crumbled buildings we wondered if they had been caused by bombs. We were told that until about two years ago, Gazientep was definitely a dangerous place to be, but was okay now. I do know that we met and saw so many Syrian refugees. The Turkish authorities let as many Syrians as want to, basically, come in there. They are given those bombed out and old places, but at least, they are safe and can try to start a new life. One man told us that since they don't have jobs, all they do is have more kids, however, worsening the problem. Well - - I won't go into that.
The Turkish breakfasts are so unique--lots of olives and vegetables. This one even had a honey comb that you could break some off and eat out of the little dish.
In order to take advantage of the heat and reduce costs, many people put barrels full of water on their roofs and let the sun warm their water for their homes.
While in Gazientep, we visited the Zeugma Museum, with the largest display of mosaics from ancient Roman houses which were rescued before the dam built on the Euphrates covered the rest up.
The Gypsy Girl Mosaic is the most famous of all the mosaics here.
We, also, visited the Grand Bazaar.
The hanging spices were so colorful!
Gaziantep is among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
We attended church at the Gaziantep Branch and had been asked to speak there, of course, with a translator. It is a trick to do that--you have to speak in short sentences, and it is definitely hard to keep your trend of thought. Anyway, we were so welcomed there with the traditional Turkish greeting of a kiss on both cheeks, and the children, after kissing your hand, tapped their heads to our hands. They were so loving and kind. After church, they served traditional Turkish food--our mouths were burning from the spices but it was delicious!
We, also, went out to Rumkale, took a boat ride on the Euphrates to see where the ancient cliff and cave dwellers lived during the early Roman times.
On our way back to town, we passed their football (soccer) stadium.
We, also, went out to Rumkale, took a boat ride on the Euphrates to see where the ancient cliff and cave dwellers lived during the early Roman times.
Our driver stopped along the way to Rumkale and picked some green pistachios for us to try. Gaziantep is known for its pistachios!
This little woman lived out in one of the caves and sat here to watch the boats and tourists come in.
These two little girls brought us some water after our cruise out on the Euphrates River.
George gave them a tip, which their father insisted they didn't need, but George said he really wanted them to have it. They were thrilled!
On our way back to town, we passed their football (soccer) stadium.
We thought the next flight to Izmir had to be better--no way!--delays and getting into our hotel at 3:00 a.m. AGAIN!
Continued on next post: Izmir
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