Read
Welcome to the "Read" section of The Other Tour, where curiosity meets inspiration. Here, we gather a diverse collection of articles designed to intrigue, inform, and enrich your understanding of Turkey and beyond. Whether you're drawn to the historical layers of Istanbul’s many names, fascinated by the linguistic pioneers shaping Turkish literature, or curious about the Roman Empire’s footprint in Istanbul, this is your go-to space for thoughtful exploration. Delve into the cultural heart of Anatolia, uncover the hidden truths about Turkey, or examine the interplay between the Catholic and Orthodox churches within our borders. Each piece is carefully crafted to offer a fresh perspective, sparking a deeper connection to the stories, history, and culture that define this vibrant region. Sit back, explore, and let these reads take you on a journey of discovery.
The Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople
Explore the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople—its origins, Byzantine legacy, Ottoman era, and global role today in Fener, Istanbul.
Pope Leo XIV’s Historic Visit: Nicaea (İznik)
Pope Leo XIV’s 2025 Türkiye visit brings global attention to Nicaea, the First Council, and İznik’s powerful legacy in Christian...
Greek Speaking Romans of Anatolia: Rum
In Turkish, the Orthodox Christian minority is called Rum (“Roman”), reflecting how the Rum people trace their roots to Rome’s...
Fatinye: Sculpting Istanbul’s Stories in Clay
Discover sculptor Fatma Karaçam’s poetic ceramic art and her brand fatinye, blending Istanbul’s spirit with myth, clay, and community.
Meet Özgür Varol – Star Guide in Ephesus
Özgür Varol, top Ephesus guide from Izmir: private tours of Ephesus, Miletus, Didyma & Pergamon with rich storytelling and local...
Selimiye Mosque: Sinan’s Masterpiece
Discover the breathtaking Selimiye Mosque in Edirne, Turkey — the crowning work of legendary Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan.
Green House Garden Restaurant: Istanbul’s Restored Jewel
Green House Garden Restaurant offers Ottoman charm and garden calm in Sultanahmet. A perfect stop between Hagia Sophia and the...
Walk the City with Uğur Kayhan: English-Speaking Pro, Real Stories
Meet Uğur Kayhan—licensed Istanbul guide with Anatolian roots, global outlook, and soulful routes from Hagia Sophia to hidden meyhanes.
The Green Mosque of Bursa: Legacy of Sultan Mehmed I
Explore Bursa’s Green Mosque Complex—Ottoman art, Persian tiles, and Sultan Mehmed I’s legacy in a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Turkey, Birthplace of Philosophy
Discover the ancient cities of Anatolia where philosophy was born. Follow the legacy of thinkers like Thales and Heraclitus.
