The day started by waking up early and riding a minibus to a high skyscraper where we were hosted by the sponsor of our host school, Mr Koksal Ersayin. This was the best place to have the presentations about our heroes.
After the presentations we went to the school where we were greeted by students who eagerly wanted to meet us. We were given a chance to see traditional folk dances performed by students, and a chance to taste traditional dishes prepared by the students' parents. The next surprise was a short boat ride on the Black Sea. The wind in our hair along with some warm tea was just perfect... |
Mustafa Kemal Pasha Ataturk was the first Turkish President and founded the Turkish Republic after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. We visited several museums that were about Ataturk's life along with the museum on SS Bandirma.
Our next stop was Havaz, a town where you can find traditional Turkish hammam. |
Amasya and Tokat are towns full of historical facts and monuments. We visited one of the oldest mosques in the town and learned about the kings who were educated in Amasya.
In Tokat we visited the Archaeological Museum, with valuable remains from the Ottoman Empire, and even from the period of the Roman Empire. After the Museum we visited the Balica Cave and observed fossils in its Stalactite and Stalagmite Halls. |
Today is unfortunately the end of this adventure. The students spent their day at school, being part of everyday Samsun school life, while in the evening we all participated a farewell dinner at a restaurant decorated in the style of traditional pubs from the Ottoman Empire.
There was dancing, singing, great traditional music, Henna night.... Everything will forever live in our hearts! |