Gaziantep

The Antep Resistance began in April 1920 as a response to the French occupation during the partitioning of the Ottoman Empire after World War I. The local Turkish population organized to resist French control, becoming a significant part of the broader Turkish national movement. The resistance involved many significant battles and skirmishes, showcasing the determination and spirit of the Antep populace. This resistance was crucial in the national struggle for independence, ultimately leading to the recognition of the Turkish Republic and helping elevate Antep's status as a heroic city, later renamed as Gaziantep in recognition of its bravery.

The Siege of Aintab, a key episode during the Turkish War of Independence, ended in early February 1921. The city, historically known as Aintab, was besieged by French forces as part of their campaign in the region. The prolonged siege resulted in significant destruction and hardship for the inhabitants, but the Turkish resistance, led by local militia and nationalists, eventually forced the French to retreat. This victory was an important moment in the nationalist movement in Turkey, demonstrating the resilience of the local population and boosting morale across the wider conflict.

Gaziantep Airport was officially inaugurated on December 20, 1989, marking a significant milestone for the city and the region. The establishment of an airport provided a major boost to the local economy, facilitating easier access for business and tourism. Gaziantep Airport has since undergone several expansions and renovations to accommodate increasing passenger demand, serving as a vital air transport hub for Southeast Anatolia. The airport has significantly contributed to Gaziantep's economic growth, connecting the region with major cities both domestically and internationally.

In 1997, Gaziantep was formally recognized as a metropolitan municipality in Turkey. This status was part of a broader series of administrative reforms in the country, recognizing Gaziantep's significant growth and development in terms of population and economic output. Since becoming a metropolitan municipality, Gaziantep has seen numerous infrastructural developments, enhancing its status as a major economic hub in southeastern Turkey. This change allowed Gaziantep to have greater autonomy in local governance, enabling it to implement efficient urban policies and contribute directly to the prosperity of the region.

In September 2005, Gaziantep was designated as a Science Center of Turkey, underscoring its growing importance in scientific research and education. This initiative involved the establishment of research institutions and collaborative projects that focused on engineering, technology, and applied sciences. The goal was to position Gaziantep as a leader in innovation and technology development, both regionally and internationally. This move was part of a broader strategy to enhance economic development through scientific advancements and foster a knowledge-based economy in the region.

Gaziantep University was formally established in March 2011, becoming one of the key educational institutions in southeastern Turkey. The university serves as an important center for higher education and research, playing a critical role in the educational landscape of the region. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and has been notable for its contributions to engineering, social sciences, and health sciences. The establishment of the university has been pivotal in driving regional development and has helped Gaziantep position itself as a city of significant academic importance.

On November 9, 2012, Gaziantep was honored with inclusion in UNESCO's Creative Cities Network, recognized specifically for its rich culinary arts. This accolade celebrated Gaziantep's world-renowned cuisine, which features a diverse array of flavors and culinary techniques unique to the region. Known for its delicious kebabs, baklava, and rich antep pistachios, Gaziantep’s food culture became a key attraction for tourism and cultural exchange. The recognition has helped preserve and promote traditional recipes and culinary skills, ensuring that Gaziantep maintains its status as a gastronomic capital.

In May 2014, Gaziantep Zoo, one of the largest zoos in Turkey and indeed Europe, completed a major expansion project. This expansion increased the variety of species housed at the zoo and improved the facilities for both animals and visitors. The zoo's primary aim was to promote wildlife conservation and biodiversity awareness among the public. Enhanced enclosures, a new botanical garden, and educational programs were part of the expansion. This project placed Gaziantep Zoo amongst the leading zoological parks in the region, attracting significant numbers of tourists and researchers alike.

On August 20, 2016, an outdoor wedding celebration in the city of Gaziantep became the target of a devastating suicide bombing. The explosion resulted in the deaths of at least 54 people, many of whom were children, and injured over 90 others. The attack was one of the deadliest in Turkey in recent years and was later attributed to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). This tragedy highlighted the ongoing security challenges Turkey faced at the time and prompted widespread international condemnation. It also spurred the Turkish government to intensify its counter-terrorism activities.

In April 2018, Gaziantep proudly inaugurated the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which became officially open to the public. This museum is one of the largest mosaic museums in the world, housing some of the most exquisite and well-preserved Roman mosaics, including the famous 'Gypsy Girl' mosaic. The museum's opening was part of a broader initiative to boost cultural tourism in Gaziantep, showcasing the region's rich archaeological heritage. The Zeugma Mosaic Museum has since become a major attraction, drawing visitors from around the globe eager to witness its unparalleled collection of ancient art.