Overview:

Konya Meram Baglari (Konya Saddlebags) is a series of 16th century buildings located in the city of Konya, in Turkey. The historical complex was originally built to store goods transported by merchants trading in the area, but today is a major tourist attraction and serves as a popular centre for culture and art. The buildings are noted for their unique and imaginative architectural designs, some of which feature traditional Seljuk Turkish aesthetic ideas such as the pointed circular architectural design of the minarets (which is a common feature of traditional Turkish architecture). The complex is divided into four sections: The Grand Bazaar, The Art Gallery, The Book House and The Carpet House. In addition to the four sections, the complex also contains various memorials, mosques and a series of underground galleries. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Turkey
Prominent Features:

1. Selimiye Mosque: This impressive mosque is considered to be the most impressive architectural piece in Konya and is renowned for its intricate designs, vibrant colors, and glorious domes. It was built by order of Ottoman Sultan Selim II in 1571 and continues to mesmerize visitors to this day. 2. Mevlana Mausoleum and Museum: This building holds immense historic significance for followers of the Sufi order established by the famous poet and spiritual leader Rumi. Here, visitors can learn more about Mevlana's teachings and view his ornate tomb. 3. Alaaddin Hill: This hilltop provides breathtaking views of the sprawling city of Konya below, along with providing a glimpse into its Imperial past. Here, visitors can climb to the top and stroll the castle walls built here in the 13th century. 4. Ince Minaret Medrese: This medrese is part of a complex of buildings built between 1258 and 1265 that has also included an Islamic school and a theological college. The grand building is one of the most beautiful historical spots in Konya and captivates visitors with its elegant blue-tiled minaret. 5. Konya Baglari: This cluster of buildings laced with willow-lined paved streets make visiting these buildings a memory that will stay with any visitor. Each of the four Baglari complexes in Konya has been beautifully refined to retain its cultural and architectural heritage while also playing host to special events and festivals. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Turkey.

History:

Konya Meram Baglari, located in Central Anatolia, is an important historical waterworks in Konya. Built in the late 1100s by the Seljuk dynasty, the main purpose of the project was to bring the rivers of the surrounding area into one main waterway that would be used to irrigate the arid land. The most remarkable structure of the baglari is the dam, which is one of the oldest dams in Turkey. As part of the irrigation system, a tunnel was also constructed, allowing the water flowing from the highest river to be diverted and spread across the entire city. The baglari also consisted of a series of stone-walled canals, which provided the main source of water for the agricultural activities in the area. The inhabitants were allowed to use the water for their own purposes, while a certain percentage was also used to water the public gardens and orchards. In the 13th century, the baglari underwent significant changes by the Ottomans, and many of the structures were either modified or completely destroyed. While the rest of the structures continued to be used, the main dam was almost destroyed in the 16th century as a result of flooding. However, the damage was not significant and the baglari still exists today. Today, the area is still renowned for its large selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are sold in the local markets. The baglari is also a popular destination for tourists, as it offers a number of activities, such as boating, fishing and walking. Visit one of the famous monuments of Turkey with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Konya Meram Baglari is a complex of fortified granaries. The walls of the complex, known as baglari, consist of stone towers in a circle around an inner citadel. 2. The Konya Meram Baglari is over 1,500 years old and is still in use today. It is also known as the Ottoman Granary because it was used to store and protect grain. 3. The Meram Baglari is currently the second largest surviving historical structure in Konya, after the Mevlana Mausoleum. 4. The Konya Meram Baglari contains seven distinct granaries, which are situated in an inner circle around the citadel. 5. The complex was built using a combination of mud brick and cut stone, with some walls being over 10 meters high. 6. The Konya Meram Baglari is an important example of medieval Ottoman engineering, as it is the only surviving example of its kind in the region. 7. The complex has been undergoing refurbishment in recent years, and is now a popular tourist destination. One of the historical monuments of Turkey, it tells the story of a bygone era