Province: Afyon (Afyonkarahisar)

Most commonly referred to simply as Afyon, the province’s full name means “Opium Black Fortress” and comes from the local love for all things poppyseed and the stunning castle that rises dramatically out of the midst of the city. While you won’t find opium any more, the remains of the ancient fortress still dominates the city’s skyline.
Outside of the city centre you’ll find dozens of hot spring spas and hotels bringing in visitors from all over the country and world to enjoy the healing properties of the mineral-rich waters.
This being Turkey, Afyon has been ruled by many of the great powers of the ancient world. From the Neolithic peoples to the Hittites to the Lydians, the Persians to the Greeks, the Romans to the Byzantines, Seljuks to the Ottomans; all have left their mark on the region. However, the greatest contributor to the wealth of Afyon’s history has to be the Phrygians who lived in the Cappadocia-esque valleys in the north of Afyon where they carved great monuments and lived in homes cut deep into the soft rock.
The province’s warm, dry climate, historical sights, natural beauty, hot springs, and famous delicacies make Afyon a great off-the-beaten-track-place to visit!