Rick Steves' Europe Season 1 Episode 10 Eastern Turkey

In the tenth episode of the first season of Rick Steves' Europe, viewers are taken on a journey through Eastern Turkey. Rick starts his adventure in Diyarbakir, an ancient city that has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years. He explores the city's impressive walls and forts, which date back to the Roman era, and spends time with locals who demonstrate traditional crafts such as weaving silk and cooking kebabs.

Next, Rick travels to Mardin, a city known for its beautiful architecture and stunning landscape. Mardin is situated on a rocky hilltop overlooking the Mesopotamian plain, and Rick takes advantage of this impressive location by showing viewers the breathtaking views from the city's rooftop terraces. He also visits the town's historic mosques and churches, discovering the unique blend of cultures and religions that have coexisted in this region for centuries.

One of the highlights of the episode is Rick's visit to Hasankeyf, an ancient town that is set to be submerged by the construction of a new dam. Rick explores the town's well-preserved ruins, including its impressive castle and maze of underground tunnels. He speaks to locals who explain the significance of Hasankeyf's history and the impact that the dam will have on the region.

Moving on from Hasankeyf, Rick travels to the town of Midyat, where he gets a taste of local hospitality by staying in a family-run guesthouse. He explores the town's impressive architecture, including its ornate buildings made from local honey-colored limestone. He also visits a nearby village where he meets a group of Yazidis, an ancient religious minority that has faced persecution in recent years.

Finally, Rick heads to Mount Nemrut, where he climbs to the top of the mountain to see the impressive ancient statues that are situated there. He gives viewers a detailed overview of the history of the statues, which were built over 2,000 years ago and are linked to the Hellenistic rulers of the region.

Throughout the episode, Rick immerses viewers in the unique culture and history of Eastern Turkey, showcasing the region's stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and fascinating local customs. Viewers will come away with a newfound appreciation for this lesser-known corner of Europe and the rich history that it holds.