In this article, we’ll delve into the cultural experiences and festivities happening in Kusadasi, Turkey, highlighting educational trips, religious tours, and community initiatives.
Student Adventures in Ancient Sites
Exploring Ancient Theatres: During their visit to Ephesus and Miletus, students didn’t just admire the ancient sites but also entertained themselves by taking pictures and dancing in the ancient theatres.
Islamic Insights: Levent Tek, a Turkish student born in Belgium, shared his knowledge of Islam with his friends at the Isa Bey Mosque in Selguk. He read from the Koran and demonstrated the Islamic way of praying, offering his friends a deeper understanding of his faith Exploring Historic Sites in Kuşadası.
Meandros: Delta of Civilisations Festival
Promoting Cultural and Natural Tourism: The Meandros Festival, scheduled from June 19th to July 19th, 2009, aims to promote cultural heritage and natural beauty in the region. Civil society organizations, including KURED, have joined hands to diversify tourism, extend business activities year-round, and showcase the region’s value through coordinated marketing efforts.
Focus on Village Activities: Led by the festival committee, Eco System Protection, EKODOSD, and KURED, the festival emphasizes taking cultural activities from towns to villages, enriching local communities and promoting sustainable tourism practices Istanbul Custom Tours.
Ada Group Magazine Launch
Community Collaboration: Under the leadership of AM Ergul, former President of the Chamber of Commerce in KUSADASI, and with the cooperation of twenty citizens from diverse professional sectors, the Ada Group Magazine has gained significant attention. The magazine presents various projects aimed at shaping the future of the town, contributing to community engagement and development.
Religious Tours and Pilgrimages
Educational Tours: French pilgrims visiting Kusadasi explored ancient sites like Ephesus, Priene, Miletus, and Didyma, guided by members of KURED. The tours included readings from the Bible, enhancing the pilgrims’ understanding of the historical and archaeological significance of these sites.
Increasing Demand for Religious Tours: Ali Karapinar, President of the Kusadasi Association of Tourist Guides, noted a surge in demand for religious tours following educational trips with Professor Dr. Mark Wilson. The association strives to meet the growing demand for religious and historical tours.
In the Footsteps of St. Paul Tour: Inspired by Pope Benedict XVI’s declaration of 2008 as the year of St. Paul, tours tracing St. Paul’s journey in the Aegean region, including visits to St. Paul Church and Tarsus, continue to attract Christian pilgrims until the end of June.
From cultural exploration to religious pilgrimages, Kusadasi offers a diverse range of experiences, enriching visitors with its rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
