Isparta - Turkey

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ISPARTA - TURKEY

ISPARTA
Between Burdur and Isparta, near the town of Aglasun, is the ancient site of Sagalassos, a Pisidian city with ruins from Roman times including a monumental entrance gate, colonnaded street, agora, temple and magnificent theatre.
Isparta, high in the Taurus Mountains, is a city of lakes with lovely coastal areas overgrown in the spring and summer with an exuberance of wild flowers. In the city you should stop at the Ulu Mosque built in 1417 by the Seljuks. The Bedesten, or covered bazaar, dates from 1561.
Firdevs Pasa Mosque was built in the 16th century by the great Ottoman architect Sinan. Be sure to see the 14th century Isparta Castle. Rose gardens that produce rose oil for the cosmetic industry surround the city and fill it with their sweet scent. Other souvenirs include a thickly piled Isparta carpet.
In the nearby hills, the districts of Kirazlidere and Sidre are popular with visitors who want to relax and enjoy the view