Ishak Pasha Palace
A combination of Seljuk, Ottoman, Georgian, Persian, and Armenian architecture, Ishak Pasha Palace is a magnificent example of Turkish historical structure. Its glass roof is one of the most interesting and eye-catching points of the palace allowing travelers to visit on rainy days.
The palace houses several sections, including the entrance, the first and second courtyards, the men’s section, the mosque, and the baths. The first courtyard belonged to merchants and guests, which can be accessed through the main entrance. Only family and special guests could enter the second courtyard. Undoubtedly, one of the most prominent parts is its dining room decorated with a combination of Seljuk, Georgian, Armenian architecture, and the use of black and white stones.
The construction of the palace, which belongs to the Ottoman Empire, was started in 1685 by the ruler of Bayazit and continued by his son and was later completed by his grandson, after about 99 years. The shrine or private house of Ishak Pasha Palace was built one hundred years after the beginning of palace construction.
Mount Ararat
A snow-capped and dormant compound volcano, Mount Ararat is located in the northeast of Turkey, consisting of two major volcanic cones: Greater Ararat and Little Ararat. Greater Ararat is the highest peak and the Armenian Highland in Turkey with an elevation of 5,137 meters. Little Ararat has an altitude equal to 3,896 meters. It is one of the Armenians’ prominent symbols, and despite its location in Turkey, the Armenians have a special prejudice and interest in this mount.
Mount Ararat is a symbol of resistance and stability for the Armenians who put the name of Ararat on the forehead of their club and place of business, and even for their sons. Frederick Parrott of Russia was the first person to reach the summit in 1829. Mount Ararat is sunny, hot, and dry in summer but has a cold climate in spring and winter, and climbers face storms, blizzards, rain, and snow in these seasons.