Antep

Antep is the historic name for Gaziantep, a major city in southern Turkey and the administrative center of Gaziantep Province. It is in the Southeastern Anatolia Region near the border with Syria, at a crossroads of regional trade routes between Anatolia and the Levant.

Its history spans multiple civilizations, with archaeological remains from Hittite, Roman, and Ottoman periods. The city preserves fortifications such as Gaziantep Castle and historic city walls, and its old town features bazaars, mosques, and traditional houses.

The economy is diverse, with a strong manufacturing and industrial base and a prominent food sector. Gaziantep is internationally known for its cuisine, particularly pistachio-based desserts and baklava, as well as savory dishes using regional ingredients. The city is also a center for textiles and other light manufacturing.

Key attractions include the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which houses a large collection of mosaics from the ancient city of Zeugma, and the nearby site of Zeugma itself. The city also hosts several universities and cultural institutions, contributing to a sizable urban population.

Population: The Gaziantep Province has about two million inhabitants, with Gaziantep being its largest city. The current population figures vary by source.

2023 earthquake: The city was affected by the February 2023 earthquake that struck southern Türkiye and northern Syria, resulting in casualties and damage in the surrounding area.