

Theme: The Cradle of Civilization
National Pavilion Day: June 20
Location: Within Zone C of the Expo Site
The main inspiration for the exterior of the 2,000-square-meter rented pavilion was derived from one of the first known settlements in the world called "Catalhoyuk" in Turkish, the center of advanced culture in the Neolithic period. The pavilion looks like an amazing red and beige box with an animal sculpture, inviting visitors to explore a maze of dreams.

The first section of the pavilion will take visitors through a journey of time to learn about Turkey's historical firsts. A map indicating the ancient sites of Turkey, the world's first mirror and the world's first man-built dam are featured here. In the middle section, a 360-degree movie will display scenes from the streets of Istanbul to reflect the pride of the city as the European Capital of Culture. Visitors will then encounter the future in the final section, which is represented by a symbolic figure of the phoenix, a mythical bird which dies in flames and is reborn from the ashes, to embody aspirations for the future.

A series of cultural activities will be staged, including traditional music and ballet performances as well as a traditional "Catalhoyuk" fashion show.
