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Perseid meteor shower observed in Türkiye’s ancient cities

Perseid meteor shower observed in Türkiye's ancient cities Perseid meteor shower is observed at Mount Nemrut Ruins, UNESCO World Heritage Site at the 2,150-meter-altitude in Adiyaman, Türkiye on August 11, 2024 (AA Photo)
By Koray Erdogan
Aug 13, 2024 10:32 AM

Türkiye’s historical treasures and natural beauty are hosting impressive displays of the Perseid meteor shower.

Last night, observations from ancient cities across Türkiye revealed a mystical atmosphere in the starry sky.

Perseid meteor shower observed in Türkiye's ancient cities
“Perseid meteor shower” at the Pergamon’s Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bergama, Izmir, Türkiye, August 13, 2024 (AA Photo)

Sky festival at Pergamon’s Acropolis

Located in the Bergama district of Izmir, Pergamon Ancient City’s Acropolis is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and appeals to both history enthusiasts and sky lovers.

The ancient city hosted journalists and photographers who observed the Perseid meteor shower using long exposure photography techniques.

The grand natural event in the night sky combined with the historical ambiance of the ancient city, offered unique images.

Perseid meteor shower observed in Türkiye's ancient cities
“Perseid meteor shower” at Kibyra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Golhisar district of Burdur, Türkiye, August 13, 2024 (AA Photo)

Visual feast at ancient city of Kibyra

The ancient city of Kibyra, located in Burdur’s Golhisar district and listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, was another significant site for observing the Perseid meteor shower.

Situated 108 kilometers from the city center, Kibyra is notable for its Medusa mosaic and monumental fountain that has been flowing again after 1300 years.

According to the excavation team leader Professor Sukru Ozudogru, the monumental fountain structure in the ancient city creates an unforgettable view when combined with the night sky.

Observations conducted with special permits from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism have attracted considerable interest from photographers and sky enthusiasts.

Perseid meteor shower observed in Türkiye's ancient cities
“Perseid meteor shower” at the ancient aqueduct in Kocaeli’s Izmit district, Türkiye, August 13, 2024, (AA Photo)

History and sky converge in Kocaeli

The Uctepeler ancient aqueduct in Izmit, Kocaeli, is among the historical structures where the Perseid meteor shower was observed.

Built in the 2nd century A.D., this structure has undergone continuous repairs throughout its history, bearing traces of the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.

The natural and historical appearance of the aqueduct, combined with the stars, offers a perfect invitation for photography enthusiasts.

Perseid meteor shower observed in Türkiye's ancient cities
Starry night in the “mysterious village” Gerga, Cine, Aydin, Türkiye, August 13, 2024 (AA Photo)

Sparkling observations at ancient city of Gerga and Mount Nemrut Ruins

The ancient city of Gerga in Aydin’s Cine district, with its temples and rock-carved statues, goes back 2,600 years.

The Perseid meteor showers are occasionally observed at this ancient city, providing a visual feast using long exposure techniques.

Perseid meteor shower observed in Türkiye's ancient cities
Perseid meteor shower is observed at Mount Nemrut Ruins, UNESCO World Heritage Site at the 2,150-meter-altitude in Adiyaman, Türkiye on August 11, 2024 (AA Photo)

Additionally, observations of the Perseid meteor shower were also made at Mount Nemrut in Adiyaman. This UNESCO World Heritage site, standing 2,150 meters high, offers a mesmerizing view with the combination of stars and ancient ruins.

The observations conducted at these unique ancient cities in Türkiye showcase how historical and natural beauty come together, providing unforgettable moments for sky enthusiasts.

Last Updated:  Aug 13, 2024 10:32 AM