Surrounded by apple, plum, and cherry trees that bloom white in spring, Akşehir was once known to Arab travelers as Belde-i Beyza, meaning the White City. With a history stretching back to ancient times, the foundations of Akşehir’s rich cultural heritage date to the Hittite period. Known as Thymbrion in antiquity, the city held strategic importance as it lay on the historic King’s Road, one of the most vital trade routes of the ancient world.
Akşehir’s historical significance extends well beyond antiquity. Following the Battle of Sakarya, a decisive turning point in the Turkish War of Independence, the Western Front Headquarters was established in Akşehir on November 18, 1921. Acting under the orders of Commander-in-Chief Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, İsmet İnönü coordinated the preparations for the Great Offensive from Akşehir for nine months and ten days. With Atatürk’s direct participation, final plans were completed, and on August 24, 1922, the headquarters and affiliated forces moved from Akşehir to Afyon, marking the beginning of the Great Offensive. Each year, this historic moment is commemorated with great pride as Akşehir Pride Day.
No introduction to Akşehir would be complete without Nasreddin Hodja, the legendary philosopher and humorist who has become a universal symbol of wit and wisdom. His mausoleum, regarded as a cornerstone of Turkish humor culture, stands at the heart of the city, alongside statues that bring his anecdotes to life. Visitors can also take photographs at the symbolic “Middle of the World.” Those visiting between July 5 and 10 can experience the International Akşehir Nasreddin Hodja Festival, one of Turkey’s oldest cultural festivals, which continues to attract audiences with its lively performances and joyful atmosphere.
Akşehir offers a harmonious blend of history, nature, and culture. One of the city’s most popular viewpoints is Hıdırlık, where visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Akşehir while escaping the summer heat in the cool mountain air. The Akşehir Municipality’s Hıdırlık Sofrası also offers an opportunity to sample local culinary specialties in a scenic setting.
The city’s traditional residential architecture is preserved in the historic Akşehir Houses, characterized by their bay windows and distinctive civil architectural style. Lined along narrow streets, nearly two thousand of these houses reflect the city’s architectural heritage. Restoration efforts led by Akşehir Municipality are ongoing, with 460 houses restored to date and 33 currently undergoing restoration.
The historic Akşehir bazaar, where traditional trades and craftsmanship continue, remains an essential stop for visitors and a lively center for shopping and local interaction. Among the city’s notable historic buildings is Takkasızlar Mansion, now serving as a boutique-style accommodation. With its original design and intimate atmosphere, it offers guests a unique experience rooted in centuries of history. Nearby, the restored Armenian Church stands out for its remarkable acoustics and architectural elegance, while the historic Yukarı Bath is being prepared to welcome guests as a restaurant, preserving its original character.
For nature lovers, Akşehir City Forest offers a tranquil escape with its clean air, waterfall, and scenic surroundings, complemented by local cuisine that attracts both domestic and international visitors. Nestled on the foothills of the Sultan Mountains, Akşehir also holds significant potential for mountain tourism. Gelincik Main Hill, rising to 2,610 meters, is the city’s highest point and provides ideal conditions for hiking, climbing, camping, and paragliding. National and international paragliding events are held here almost every year.
Akşehir’s cuisine reflects the deep-rooted traditions of Anatolian life. Geographically indicated dishes such as Akşehir Tandır Kebab, along with Herse, Cheese Baklava, Meat Bread, Zülbiye, Bulamaç Soup, and thick pastry varieties, continue to be passed down through generations, preserving the city’s rich culinary heritage.
With a population approaching 100,000, Akşehir stands out as one of Central Anatolia’s most charming cities. The registered Akşehir Cherry, renowned for its color, aroma, and taste, has gained recognition both in Turkey and abroad. The city is also home to three official museums, along with numerous mosques, masjids, tombs, baths, and a historic church, offering visitors a comprehensive insight into the lifestyles and cultures of the past.
The tradition of Sıra Yarenliği, rooted in the Ahi order, is still actively preserved by Akşehir Municipality. Performances by the Akşehir Municipality Sıra Yarenleri engage both local and international guests, inviting them into the performances and filling the atmosphere with laughter and warmth. As the Middle of the World, Akşehir welcomes everyone with its orchards, clean air, rich historical texture, and the sincere hospitality of its people.
