Konya, the city of the world-famous poet Rumi, might not come to mind when talking about technology, especially blockchain and cryptocurrencies. As one of the major cultural centers of Turkey, Konya is known for its rich history, gorgeous mosques, and historical sites.
But that has not stopped the Anatolian city from setting up its “Science and Technology Valley,” under the umbrella of Konya Science Center, and building a team to apply blockchain to municipal services.
First revealed by Konya Metropolitan Mayor Uğur İbrahim Altay during a local smart city congress in Ankara on Jan. 16, this Turkish city is looking for ways to develop a “City Coin” and create a blockchain-based financial ecosystem around it.