Join me, Matthew LaCroix, on an expedition through the Van region of Türkiye as we explore ancient megalithic temples and ruins that are only beginning to be understood.

Together, we will investigate sites such as Ayanis, the underwater ruins of Lake Van, Kef Kalesi, Çavuştepe, and Meher Gate—each presenting architectural features and symbolic elements that point to a deeper chapter of human history.

This immersive experience includes exclusive site access, boat exploration on Lake Van, and in-depth presentations, along with the opportunity to walk among places few have ever seen.

Experience the thrill of uncovering real history firsthand, and step into the mystery of our forgotten past.

Arrive in Istanbul and settle into the comfort of the Eresin Hotel Topkapi 5, with convenient transportation arranged for your arrival. In the evening, join fellow travelers for a group dinner at 7 pm. The evening will feature welcome remarks and introductions from Matt and Saba, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey ahead. 

We begin the day in Istanbul with visits to key historical sites, including the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia. At each location, we take time to observe the architectural features and historical context that define these structures and their place within the city.

In the afternoon, we travel along the Bosphorus by boat, offering a sweeping view of Istanbul from the water and a broader perspective on the city’s landscape, where ancient and modern elements exist side by side.

The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in Istanbul.

After breakfast, we depart for Van with a short flight to the region, marking the transition into the primary focus of the expedition.

Upon arrival, we visit the Van Museum, where we examine a wide range of artifacts that provide important context for the sites we will be exploring in the days ahead.

Later, we spend time at the Van Cat House, home to the region’s well-known cats, recognized for their distinctive appearance and unique characteristics.

In the evening, we check in to the Van Elite World Hotel. After dinner, we gather for a lecture and discussion introducing the key themes and locations that will guide the next phase of the journey.

We begin the day with a drive to Çavuştepe, where we explore the site in detail, focusing on its large stone architecture and overall layout. Time is spent on-site examining the construction techniques and features that distinguish this location within the region.

Following this, we travel toward the Akdamar area for lunch along the lake, with open views across the surrounding landscape.

In the afternoon, we take a boat to Akdamar Island, crossing the waters of Lake Van to reach the site. Here, we visit the Akdamar Armenian Church, observing its structure, carvings, and setting within the landscape, and considering its place within the broader historical context of the region.

We begin the day at Ayanis, where we spend extended time exploring the temple complex and surrounding structures. Focus is placed on the basalt and andesite stonework, the precision of the construction, and the symbolic elements present throughout the site.

This is a key location within the region, offering an opportunity to examine architectural features and patterns that raise important questions about its origins and function.

Following our time on site, we return to the lake for an opportunity to swim in Lake Van and spend time along the shoreline, with wide, open views across the surrounding landscape.

We travel to the lakeside town of Adilcevaz, located along the northern shores of Lake Van.

From there, we take a boat out onto the lake to view the underwater ruins, observing the stone formations and patterns visible beneath the surface. This provides a rare opportunity to examine features that are not typically accessible and to consider their form and placement within the lakebed.

After lunch in Adilcevaz, we continue into the surrounding terrain, ascending toward Kef Kalesi. Here, we explore the site in detail, focusing on its basalt stonework, large-scale construction, and elevated position overlooking the lake and surrounding landscape.

We conclude the day with a visit to the Adilcevaz Museum before returning to Van in the evening.

We travel toward the western side of Lake Van, passing through the town of Tatvan as we approach Mount Nemrut.

At Nemrut, we enter the crater and spend time exploring the volcanic landscape, observing the scale of the formation and the geological features that define the area. The setting provides a striking contrast between the crater interior, surrounding terrain, and the lake below.

Later in the day, we visit Ahlat Selçuk, where we examine the historic cemetery and its Seljuk-era tombstones, focusing on their form, craftsmanship, and cultural context.

We return to Van in the evening for dinner and time to unwind after a full day in the field.  

We begin the day at Van Castle, where we explore the fortress and examine its elevated position overlooking the surrounding landscape. While on site, we visit the Xerxes inscription and consider its historical context within the region.

From there, we continue to the Meher Gate, where we spend time observing the carved stone surfaces and structural features of the site. This location provides another opportunity to examine patterns and elements that connect to other sites across the region.

In the afternoon, we return to Van for lunch, followed by time in the local bazaar, where traditional kilims and carpets reflect the region’s long-standing craftsmanship and cultural continuity.

We travel east toward Mount Ararat, passing through the surrounding landscape as we approach one of the most prominent peaks in the region.

Along the way, we stop in Doğubeyazıt for lunch before continuing to Ishak Pasha Palace, where we explore the structure and examine its architectural design and elevated setting overlooking the valley.

Later in the day, we visit the site associated with Noah’s Ark, taking time to observe its formation and consider the historical and cultural context that has shaped its significance.

We return to Van in the evening for a final dinner together, bringing the expedition to a close after several days of exploration across the region.

The following morning, we depart from Van, marking the end of the journey.