I went to Eastern Turkey to experience more traditional culture, food and architecture. That’s how I ended up in Gaziantep, a city which is like a foodie Mecca for Turks (deliciously influenced by Kurdish, Syrian and Oghuz cuisines), which also happens to be one of the oldest continuously populated cities in the world. I got a glimpse of authentic Antep while staying at the Aynur Hanim Konagi Butik Otel where you can feel the history through ancient architecture and traditions through people's hospitality.
If ever around, check out the Zeugma Mosaic Museum to see a fantastic selection of ancient Roman mosaic floors and wall decorations and the infamous "Antep Gypsy Girl" piece. Some scholars believe this is Alexander The Great camouflaged as a girl.
Now, this city doesn’t have hostels for backpackers like me.
AirBandB is an option but my host canceled one hour before my arrival (not cool). And so, long story short, the universe chose Aynur Hanım Konağı Butik Otel for me to stay at that night. And I’m so grateful it did!
For 5 days I lived in an authentic Antep style stone house with a very traditional interior courtyard and a gorgeous, very spacious bedroom.
This exquisite place was recently renovated by the family who owns and runs this mansion. During the renovation works an old fresh water cistern was discovered under the house. Such cisterns were used since antiquity in Anatolia and are common in ancient cities like Gaziantep. Now it serves as a wine cellar for the hotel, so you can take down a few flights of stairs to see it for yourself and have a glass of wine or two or three.
I love the ambiance at the Aynur Hanım Konağı Butik Hotel. Wood elements are mixed here with rough surfaces of stone walls and glossy, polished hardware. Each room is decorated differently, according to its own theme. With names like the Gold Room, Leather Room and Antique Room, you are sure to find your best match.
This butik hotel is filled with antique items that take you back in time, letting you visually travel in history and get thoroughly hypnotized by the Gaziantep vibe.
You will start your day with the most amazing Turkish breakfast you’ve ever had with a gorgeous view of the Liberation Mosque, which used to be an Armenian church. Homemade jams, organic veggies from the farm, Turkish coffee and local cheese will make you want to stay here forever. It was definitely the best breakfast I had in Turkey.
For my second breakfast, I was surprised with a side plate of katmer: an Antep specialty dessert from thin layered dough, infamous Gaziantep pistachios and a touch of cream.
In this city, katmer is the chosen breakfast dish for the bride and groom after their wedding night. I actually have been lucky enough to witness a small wedding celebration at this hotel and it was a wonderful experience.
Translated as “My mother’s Butik Hotel” this place will make you feel right at home. Staying here has made my Gaziantep visit an unforgettable one and I wish everyone could come to this city and experience its boundless hospitality. Next time I am in Eastern Turkey, I will definitely stay at the Aynur Hanım Konağı Butik Otel for a night or two or three... Will see.
