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The Anatolia Friendship Rally set off from Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, marking the first edition of an 11-city journey across Türkiye organized with the support of TUVTURK, a Turkish vehicle inspection company, and coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the European Union.
Eighty-five vehicles gathered at the starting line in Istanbul before the convoy began its journey through Anatolia, with 50 continuing on for the full route to Ankara.
Participants set off from Istanbul, the first stop on a route designed around local culture and community engagement rather than speed, distinguishing it from traditional car rallies.
The rally continues toward Canakkale, home to the ancient site of Troy, giving participants the chance to explore one of the region's most historically significant landmarks.
Drivers make their way to Akcay, in Balikesir's Edremit district, as part of the route's coastal stretch along the Aegean Sea.
The convoy passes through Ephesus, in Izmir's Selcuk district, allowing participants to experience one of Türkiye's most important ancient archaeological sites.
Vehicles arrive in Bodrum, in Mugla province, continuing the journey along Türkiye's Aegean coast and offering a stop known for its scenic beauty and rich history.
The rally reaches Pamukkale, in Denizli province, celebrated worldwide for its striking white travertine terraces and thermal pools.
Participants travel to Olympos, in Antalya's Kumluca district, along the Mediterranean coast, an area known for its ancient ruins and natural surroundings.
The route continues through Konya, Nigde, and the historic region of Cappadocia, known for its unique rock formations and cultural heritage.
The journey concludes in Ankara on Aug. 12, following stops in Aksaray and other cities, bringing an end to a rally that combined travel with social responsibility activities such as visits to nursing homes and schools along the way.
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