Trabzon is a city on the Black Sea coast of north-eastern Turkey. Located on the historical Silk Road, it became a melting pot of religions, languages and culture for centuries and a trade gateway to Iran in the southeast and the Caucasus to the northeast. The Venetian and Genoese merchants paid visits to Trebizond during the medieval period and sold silk, linen and woolen fabric. During the Ottoman period, Trabzon, because of the importance of its port, became a focal point of trade to Iran and the Caucasus.

 

          You will start your tour by driving to the Hagia Sophia, a stunning Byzantine church dating back to the thirteenth century, which was once a mosque and during World War I even a hospital. Your next stop is the Atatürk Köşkü, a villa built in 1890 by a local Greek merchant. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk stayed in the villa during his visits in 1924 and 1937. You will then continue to Boztepe Park for lunch, which is located on the hills above Trabzon offering you a great panoramic view of the city. The terrain in Trabzon is ascending in such a way that although the view is far above that of the buildings below, it is still close enough to be able to observe the flow of traffic and the people moving about in the city. Next you will visit the Trabzon Museum, which is located in the town centre and offers interesting exhibits on the history of the region, including an impressive collection of Byzantine artifacts.

 

         After the museum you will have a chance to stroll through the colorful market for an hour. Trabzon's Bazaar District offers interesting shopping opportunities on ancient narrow streets.