A notable historical figure who visited Antalya was Paul of Tarsus, as recorded in the biblical book, the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 14:25-26), wherein Antalya is referred to as Attalia. St. Paul and St. Barnabas went to Antalya and sailed from there to Antioch after preaching in the Pisidia and Pamphylia regions. (http://www.antalya.fm/history_antalya.html)
We first flew to Istanbul and then took a connecting flight to Antalya. Eric and I had meetings there for three days while the children stayed in their classes. The food was amazing! I already knew that there was a heavy Turkish influence on the culture here in Macedonia but it was interesting to see it first-hand. The food, dress, and customs are similar as here.
A disturbing item we often saw for sale in Turkey was the "evil eye". There are "evil eyes" for sale here in Skopje but since there are more Muslims in Turkey, it is a more high demand item. Usually bracelets and other trinkets have the eye symbol on them, which are believed to ward off any bad luck that they think may be intended for them. It's a type of voodoo. (Picture taken from www.thecoveredmarket.net)
As a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, it was a very sad thing for me to see these "evil eyes" in such abundance. Let's pray that all peoples will see that their trust and protection in life should be found in our Savior Jesus Christ. Christ shed his blood for us so that we can trust Him for salvation and not live in fear.
Isaiah 41:10 (New International Version)
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
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