ADIYAMAN

Area: 7.614 km²
Population: 513.131 (1990)
Traffic Code: 02

Located at the west of Southeastern Anatolia Region, taking ıts stage in history rather early dating back to the existence of first man and hosting various different cultures ,Adıyaman is an important culture and tourism center. Along with this, Adıyaman is known to be one of the oldest settlements on Earth; discoveries from every human phase are found on the region. Adıyaman also fascinates its visitors with the ruins of Mt. Nemrut known as the 8th Wonder of World, the ruins of Commagene, Atatürk Dam ,the fourth biggest dam in the world, Çamgazi Dam, Winter Camping Organisation and finally with the world champion local folk dances.

Districts : Besni, Çelikhan, Gerger, Gölbaşı, Kahta, Samsat, Sincık and Tut.

How to Get

Highway: Adıyaman can be reached through five different directions by highway from Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Malatya, Kahramanmaraş and Diyarbakır. Gölbaşı County in Adıyaman is an exact intersection place, Malatya Kahramanmaraş - Gaziantep highway arrival is possible only through Gölbaşı .

Coach station Tel : (+90-416) 216 35 35

Railway: also Railway arrival is provided by Gölbaşı county, Malatya - Fevzi Pasha railway passes through this county.

Railway station Tel : (+90-416) 781 60 80

Airway: Regular flights are present to Adıyaman airport.

Airport Tel : (+90-416) 244 20 02

Dam arrrival: The high way that passes through Adıyaman binds all southeastern cities including Şanlıurfa, Diyarbakır. There are also ferry boat tours in Güzelsu village to reach Şanlıurfa and Siverek.

Where to Visit

ANCIENT CITIES

Arsameia Ruins (Nymphaios Arsameia): It is understood from the Inscriptions of King Antiochos I that Arsameia was built in the first quarter of the Second Century BC, by the order of Arsemez (ancestor of Commagene) at the east of Kahta River, facing the Old Kahta Castle . It was the summer capital and the administrative centre of the Kingdom.

On the east ceremony way an embossed relief of Mithradates, above the rite platform , displays Herakles shaking hands with Mithradates. In front of the rite platform is an inscription in Greek known as the biggest inscription found in Anatolia. A tunnel beginning at the front of the inscription deep in to 158 meter and also at the west of the inscription a similar rocky vestibule exists. Tomb temple and Palace of Mithradates Callinichos take place on the platform. Arsameia ruins are 60 km to Adıyaman.

New Castle: New Castle is located nearby Kocahisar Village which is 60 km to Adıyaman. New Castle was built by the Commagenes and used together with Arsemeia. Romans and Mamluks restored the Castle and finally in 1970's the castle was partly repaired. In the castle are a bazaar, a Mosque, a dungeon, water canals, ruins of pigeon loft and inscriptions . A water canal flawing from the castle down through to Nymphois was bound to Arsameia by a tunnel. It is still possible to reach the water through the water canal which has an 80 meter length.

Derik Castle: It was built on a hill of 1400 m altitude near the Datgeli village on the Sincik Highway. Estimated to be built by Roman Empire in 70 AC, and used by them till 300 AC, the castle, houses a huge temple and is known as the holy place of the region. Besides, the ruins of Temenos which were built during the period of Commagenes, are placed nearby the castle.

Gerger Castle (Arsameia of Euphrates): The castle taking place in the west shore of Euphrates (Fırat) , 85 km to Adıyaman's Kahta County, can even be dated to Late Hittite Period. The castle was constructed by Arsames, the ancestor of Commagenes. Being built on precipitous rocks,the Gerger Castle is divided into two sections as the lower castle and upper castle and at the west walls of the castle is an embossed relief of King Samos.In the Castle which is also used during Islamic period are shops, a Mosque and water cisterns.

Perre Antique City: The ruins of Perre Antique City are located 5 kilometres to Adıyaman city centre. The ruins taking place in Pirin Village, include approximately 200 cave tombs and a settlement place. This necropolis and its vicinity dated at Antique Age, was an important settlement place of the Commagene period, however especially during Roman Period it became a developed city. The ruins consist of gates decorated with embossed reliefs and tomb rooms that are engraved in rocks and connected to each other .

NEMRUT DAĞI

At the junction of the East and West civilisations, Nemrut Dagi (Mount Nemrut) is one of the most astounding sites in Turkey: A collection of colossal statues on a remote mountain 2150m high, adorning the temple and tomb of King Antiochus. Unknown until 1881 when an Ottoman geologist discovered these 10 metre-high stone heads, archaeological work began in 1953 to uncover their history.

Nemrut Dağı has since been a significant attraction, with thousands coming at sunrise and sunset to see the stones in the best possible light. It has been designated a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO, and is one of the most important National Parks in the country. In addition to the statues, the entire site includes art from the Commagene civilisation, the Eskikale (Old Castle), Yenikale (New Castle), Karakus Hill and Cendere Bridge. Most people use the nearby towns of Malatya, Kahta or Adıyaman as a base, and the road to the summit is only open from mid-April to mid-October because of heavy snow the rest of the year.

FAITH TOURISM

Nemrut (Kahta): It is 103 km east from Adıyaman. It was formed with accumulation of crushed rocks on a main rock of tumulus. Terraces are formed with smoothing the main rock at east, west and north of the tumulus;moreover, god statues and relieves are arranged in colossal Greko - Persia style at east and west terraces.

Arsemia: It is 63 kilometers from Adıyaman, on the east bank of Kahta stream. There are relieved illustration of Mitras on ceremonial road at south, and a rock depicitng Antiochos - Heracles greeting on ceremony platform and before this the biggest inscription of Anatolia an epitaph in the language of ancient Greece.

MOUND TUMULUS and MONUMENTS

Karakuş Tumulus (Women's Monument Tomb): Located at Adıyaman-Kahta enterance in south-west of the National Park ,the Monumental Tomb was built by Commagene's King Mithradates II and was dedicated to his mother Isas. Because of the symbol of eagle on the top of the columns, it was named as Karakuş(black bird) Tumulus. There were four columns in each east, west and south directions, however today only two at east, one at west and one at south remain. On the east columns are ruins of lion and eagle statues, on the west columns ,on the other hand, grounds a relief of 'shaking hands' and on the ground remain pieces of lion statue. Karakuş Tumulus determined as the entrance of Mt Nemrut is also located in the National Park.

Sofraz Tumulus: 45 km to the city centre and 15 km to Besni country. Placed at Üçgöz (Sofraz) village. The Tomb having 15 m height was covered by shattered stones and debris.

Sesönk (Obelisk): The Monumental tomb is located at 33 km south-east of Besni district and was built by Commagene's King Mithradates II on Kızıldağ Mountain.The tomb was surrounded by 3 columns, each having 10 meters height. On these columns are embossed figures of women, men and lions .

Karadağ Tumulus: 5 km from Adıyaman ,Karadağ Tumulus lies on the slope of Karadağ Mountain . It has a rock tomb consisting of two sections.

Beştepeler: 25 km from Adıyaman, inside the Ilıcak village borders are 6 tumulus tombs that are covered by hoarded stones. It is estimated that these tombs were built for royal family members of Commagene Kingdom .

Malpınarı Rock Inscription: Located approximately 35 kilometres from Adıyaman at the Malpınar locality. There is a hieroglyph inscription engraved on natural rock and settlements carved on rocks, which are all dated at Late Hittite Period.

BRIDGES

Cendere Bridge: It is located at the north-east of Karakuş Tumulus , 55 kilometres from Adıyaman .Cendere Bridge consists of a big arch built with 92 large shattered stones on two main rocks at the most narrow place of Kahta river and a secondary arch at the east side of the bridge.

The columns of the bridge were constructed with elasticity to make the bridge resistable to earthquakes. Below this bridge placed another bridge that has 5 arches and was built at Commagene Antiochos Theos Period.However, it was destroyed by the Romans.

Göksu - Kızılin Bridge: The bridge dated back to Roman period was built on a rocky place between Gümüşkaya and Ağcin villages. Except for the middle arch the bridge in general is in good condition.

Golden Bridge: Bridge has one big arch and tree other arches getting smaller each after another. The stones of the Bridge were put together with compress method without using a plaster. There are 63 lines of stone at the west side and 70 lines of stone at east side of the arch. In total nineteen line of stones were used.

ROCK TOMBS

Haydaran Rock Tombs: Located 17 kilometres from Adıyaman, in Taşgedik village. There are rock tombs and embossed relief of God of Sun Hellias shaking hands with King Antiochos .

Turuş Rock Tombs: Turuş Rock Tombs dated at Roman Period are placed 40 kilometres from Adıyaman city centre and one kilometre west of Adıyaman-Şanlıurfa Highway. Since the tombs were built through engraving the main rock from the surface to the underground, one can reach the entrance of the tombs through 10-13 steps. In some tombs there are various figures embossed on the walls and entrences of gates.

Dolmen's: There are Dolmen type tombs at the rocky places in the west of the Obelisk, near Hozişi village. These tombs were erected through stacking two huge rocks resebling a raft.These tombs were thought to be remainig from Stone Age.

Zey: Located 7 kilometres to Adıyaman, near Zey village. Zey consists of settlement units used by the people of Early Christian Period. Moreover, in the village tomb of Sheikh Abdurrahman Erzincani and a mosque take place.

CAVES

Göksu Caves: Across the Göksu river are natural caves on a 40 - 50 meter high precipitous rocks. Caves are concentrated around Kızılin and Sarıkaya villages on Besni side, Gümüş Kaya and Mal Pınarı on Adıyaman side.

Palanlı Cave: Placed in Palanlı village, 10 kilometres west of Adıyaman, on Adıyaman - Çelikhan - Malatya Highway. It is a natural cave that was used in 40.000 BC. On the wall of the cave a deer motive, which is made by simple counter lines, is still noticeable.Especially the deep valley where the cave takes place is a unique part of nature.

Kitap (Book) Cave: In Book Cave are settlement units having two floors built through carving the rocks.They are named as (iron castle 1) and known to be used by the people of Early Christian Period. Caves can be reached on foot from İndere village (Zey).

Gümüşkaya (Palaş) Caves: Located at 40 kilometres south-west of Adıyaman, at the west of Göksu river and the village (named by the river). There are various caves on the rocks connected to each other with tunnels. They were known to be used as a residence and thought to be built in 150 B.C. These caves had balconies, divisional rooms, wells, yet the entrances are of one person width.

RELIGİOUS MONUMENTS

Ulu Mosque, Çarşı Mosque, Kab Mosque, Musalla Mosque, St. Paul Church are the most important ones.

THERMAL RESORTS

Çelikhan Thermal Resorts: It is located in 23 km southwest of Çelikhan district. The water of the spring is beneficial for those suffering from stomach, liver, gall bladder, and kidney disorders and obesity.

Besni Thermal Resorts: It is located in 6 kilometres north-east of Besni district. This spring water is useful for kidney disorders, chronic constipation, guts and stomach inflammation.

Kotur Thermal Resorts: It is 25 kilometres to Adıyaman. It is a cold water, mineral spring located 5 kilometres from Akçalı village. This spring water is useful for some guts and stomach disorders.

NATIONAL PARKS

Adıyaman - Nemrut Dağı National Park

Location: Nemrut Dagi National Park lies between Kahta (9km) and Adiyaman (43km).

Transport: The park can be reached by the road connecting the centre of Adiyaman to Kahta.

Highlights: Most famous site of all, and one of the best-known images of Turkey, are the huge sculptures of gods on the mountain. In addition, it is also the site of tumulus of Antioch, Arsameia (Eskikale), Yenikale (New Castle), Karakus Tepe (Peak), and Cemdere Bridge. In the ancient city of Commagene, King Mithridates I established an independent kingdom, which gained importance during the reign of King Antioch (62 – 32 BC), the son of Mithridates. In 72 AD, the Commageneians lost the war against the Roman Empire, after which they also lost their independence.

The ruins on top of Nemrut Dagi indicate that it was not a residence, but specifically built for the tumulus of Antioch and his sacred space. The tumulus is at an altitude of 2150m and overlooks the River Firat and the neighbouring plains. It is thought that the king’s bones or ashes were put inside the room carved into the main rock, then covered by the tumulus which is 50m high and 150m in diameter. The courtyards are shaped like terraces, and religious ceremonies were held on the western side.

On both terraces, the huge sculptures of the gods, measuring up to 7m high, are positioned between the lion and eagle sculptures. These are surrounded by great stone blocks, arranged perpendicularly with inscriptions and embossed designs. The capital city of Commagene, Arsameia, is in the neighbourhood of the old Kahta village. The holy field of Mithridates is also in that area.

Yenikale is also of great historic interest, and in the area of old Kahta. This castle was built on very steep rocks, and has water depots, baths, mosque, and a hidden water road that leads to river Kahta.

Cendere Bridge, built with one arch on two rocks, crosses the narrowest point of the river Cendere. According to the epitaph written on the columns of the bridge, the Commagene cities had built it in honour of Roman Emperor Septimus Severus (193-211 AD) and his wife and sons. Karakus Peak Tumulus, in which the women of the royal family were buried, is a 21m tall tumulus 10km south-west of Arsameia.

Bears, wolves, jackals, foxes and badgers inhabit the nearby forest.

Facilities: Food and accommodation is available in the national park, with hotels in Nemrut Dagi and pensions in Karadut and Kahta.

ATATURK DAM and GAP

Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP), is a multi sectoral and complex regional development programme of Southeastern Anatolia Region consisting 9 cities (Adıyaman, Batman, Diyarbakır, Gaziantep, Kilis, Mardin, Siirt, Şanlıurfa and Şırnak). At the beginning the aim of the project covers only the improvement of water and soil resources, but in 1989 after the preparation of GAP Master Plan; the project evolved to a multi sectoral and complex regional development plan. The most important step of the project is the Atatürk Dam which is known to be the biggest dam of Türkiye and 8th biggest Dam of the world. With Atatürk Dam, which is located in the borders of Adıyaman and ŞanlıUrfa, soil resurrects from years of drought and the economy of the region developed rapidly.

On the other hand, Dam Lake which is called as "sea" by the local people, gives a great variety to the touristic capacity of the region. Fishing and water sports are now available in lake life.

MUSEUMS

Adıyaman Musuem it takes place on Atatürk Boulevard. In Archaeological ruins section, exhibitions begining from Paleothic Age include hand axes of flintstone, drilling and digging equipment, obsidian arrow heads, cooked clay figures. Also ceramics, glass furnitures, bone tools, gold, silver and bronze ornaments, figures, stamp and cylinder seal exhibits dated to various times; Calcolithic Age, Begining, Middle And Late Bronze Ages, Iron Age, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman Periods. Moreover there are stone reliefs from Late Hittite Period, some coins and mosaic samples pertaining to Commagene Kingdom.

In Ethnographic Works section, are examples of weaved objects rugs, carpets, cicim, rug - pillow, women and men clothes, silver ornaments, house furniture all collected from Adıyaman region. Some stone works of museum were displayed at inner garden.

Museum Tele: (+90-416) 216 29 29 Open hours to visit: 08.30-12.00 , 13.00-17.30

Geography

The climate of Adıyaman is terrestrial so summers are hot and dry, whereas winters are cold and snowy.

History

In Adıyaman; Hittites, Asurians, Hurris, Phyrigians, Persians, Macedonians, Commagenes, Romans and Byzantines had lived through history.The city was founded by an Emevi Commander Masur İbni Caneve in 8th Century. After Emevi's dominance came to an end Abbasi, Eyyübi, Seljuk, Mamluks and Ottomans took control of the city respectively. In 1923 it was a district dependent to Malatya, finally after 1954 it became a province.

Where to Eat

Raw meatballs, içli meatballs, basalla (sour meatballs), cılbır, lentil metballs, pestil (dried layer of fruit pulp), yapıştırma and hıtap are some of the famous meals of Adıyaman. There are restaurants in the city centre serving local meals. In Kahta district fish can be eaten on the shore of Dam Lake. Accomodatian Facilities and cafeterias on the highway to Mt Nemrut , give opportunity to eat and drink.

What to Buy

At the center of Adıyaman there is a historical market called as Oturakçı Bazaar that offers exquisite handcrafts such as rugs, carpets, cicim, saddlebag and some touristic equipment. Nemrut statues can be bought as a present in touristic kiosks in Mt Nemrut. Also in these kiosks guidebooks about the history of the region in various languages can be found.

Don't Leave Without

- Watching sunrise and sunset from Nemrut mountain,

- Seeing the remains of Commagene Civilisation ,

- Tasting fish in fish restaurants of Kahta at the shore of Atatürk Dam,

- Visiting Adıyaman Museum,

- Buying local hand woven carpets, rugs, cicim, saddle bag and offcourse Nemrut statues

Sites

Registered Immobile Cultural and Natural Heritages in Adıyaman

Sites

Archeological Sites: 80

Urban Sites: -

Natural Sites: 4

Historical Sites: -

Total: 84 Cultural (at Single Construction Scale) and Natural Heritages: 91

TOTAL: 175

Contact Information

Governorship : (+90-416) 216 10 01

Municipality : (+90-416) 216 10 20

Hospital : (+90-416) 216 10 15

Police : (+90-416) 216 10 70

Gendarme : (+90-416) 216 1092

Provincial Directorate : (+90-416)216 10 08 - 216 38 40

Tourism Information Office : (+90-416) 216 51 31

Provincial Culture Directorate : (+90-416) 216 12 59 - 216 19 91 Fax: (416) 216 24 78

Adıyaman Museum Address:

Atatürk Cad. Adıyaman

Tel: (416) 216 29 29

Fax: (416) 216 98 98

Links

Adıyaman Governorship http://www.adiyaman.gov.tr/valilik/valilik_giris.html
The International Nemrud Foundation International Nemrud Foundation - Word Heritage Monument in Turkey

AFYON

Afyonkarahisar is located on an intersection which connects north to south, west to east. Town is a potential tourism centre with its rich historical background.

Area: 14.230 km²

Population: 739.223 (1990)

Traffic Code: 03

Districts : Başmakçı, Bayat, Bolvadin, Çay, Çobanlar, Dazkırı, Dinar, Emirdağ, Evciler, Hocalar, İhsaniye, İscehisar, Kızılören, Sandıklı, Sincanlı, Sultandağı ve Şuhut'tur.


How to Get

Highway and railway facilities are available.

Coach Station Tel : (+90-272) 212 09 63
Railway station Tel : (+90-272) 2l3 79 l9

Where to Visit

ANCIENT CITIES

İhsaniye AyaziniTown (Metropolis) Ayazini town can be reached by turning right and getting 4.7 kilometre from the 27th km of Afyon-Eskişehir Highway. It is known to be used as a settlement since the Phyrigian period. Cave tomb rooms made for singles or families dated at Roman and Byzantine Periods, churches of Byzantine period and cave settlements are all engraved on rock due to the suitability of the land. Tomb rooms with lions and tomb rooms with columns moreover churches and chapels that are engraved on rock can be seen in the ancient city.

İhsaniye Döğer Settlement Located 12 km from İhsaniye and known to be used as a settlement since Phyrigians. Lion rock, Gate Rock I and II and the rock monuments
built in the 7th Century BC in the name of Goddess Cybele has the quality of being an open-air temple. Moreover, Phyrigian settlements are located in Asar and Old Döğer. Various cave settlements , tomb rooms and churches dated at Roman and Byzantine Period can be visited in the ancient settlement.

Synnada Located at Şuhut town centre , Synnada is a huge city which was once the
capital of central Phyrig during Roman and Byzantine Periods.

Apameia Located in Dinar , the previous name of Apameia was Keleneia. In ancient times it was known to be the second biggest city after Efes.

Docimeium Located at İscehisar town centre, the city was built by Macedonians.

Amorium Located at Hisarköy Village the history of the city can be traced to Late Bronze Age. The city was called as Aura in the Period of Hittites and as Amorium in the Classic Age.

PENTAPOLIS CITIES

Bruzus Located in Karasandıklı Village, it is one of the five cities that are called as Pentapolis. It is located at the north of other cities.

Eucarpeia Located at Emirhisar village in Sandıklı , Eucarpeia is one of the five Pentapolis cities

Hieropolis Located at Koçhisar village in Sandıklı ,Hierpolis is one of the Pentapolis cities. At the same time, the city was the centre of the Phrygia Salutaris (Curative Phrygia). Also it was named as the "Holy City".

Otrus Being one of the Pentapolis cities, Otrus was built in Yanıkören village.

Stectorıum Being one of the Pentapolis cities, it was built in Menteş town, Sandıklı district.

Ococleia Located in Karacaören village, Şuhut district. The city with its partly autonomous status during Roman Period, minted bronze coins in the name of the Emperor collectively with Bruzus City.

Lysias Located in Arızlı village, Şuhut.

Metropolis Founded at Tatarlı town in Dinar district; it is known as Campus Metropolitanus or Phrygia Metropolis.

Cidyessus Located at Küçükhöyük town Sincanlı district nearby Höyük locality.

Prymnessus is one of the great cities that was founded by the Phyrigians in Sülün Village Merkez district. Moreover, the huge sized Hercules statue taking place in this ancient city is exhibited in Afyon Archaeology Museum.

Sanaus founded at Sarıkavak village, Dazkırı district.

ARCHEOLOGICAL PLACES

Göynüş Valley Open Air Temple It is located at Kayıhan quarter in İhsaniye county.One can reach the Temple through turning left and going 1,5 km from the 32nd km. of Afyon-Eskişehir Highway. In the valley, Göynüş Citadel, Aslantaş and Yılantaş tomb rooms that has embossed lion figures, Maltaş Cybele Open Air Temple can be visited.

Sarıçayır(Selimiye) Rock Tombs Upon the rocky territory around Sarıçayır village İscehisar county, engraved single- family tomb rooms , tombs and shelters dated at Byzantine Period.

Şuhut - Bininler Rocky Places Located at 6 km west of Şuhut, Bininler is a rocky territory near Senir village.The Settlement contains animal barns and residences for people.On the lower foot of the rocky territory, which is in reality a Byzantine settlement, the remains of Byzantine church and monastery still exists. Moreover ,there are covered tombs from Late Roman Period that are engraved on rocks.

Bolvadin - Kemerrock Seven Gate Rock Settlement Place: Located on Bolvadin-Emirdağ Highway, 3 km north of Bolvadin Kemerkaya. As a result of the excavations, a complex building group that are estimated to be possible military garrison or administrative buildings engraved on rocks and some parts of Underground City that is used as a shelter by people . Excavations about the settlements dating back to the Late Roman and Early Byzantine periods are still in progress.

Bolvadin - Kırkgöz (Forty eyes) Bridge The bridge is located in Bolvadin district, on Akarçay which flows to Eber Lake. The bridge consists of two parts as north and south.The South part of the bridge is constructed by Byzantine Emperor Manuel Kommen I with marble and chipped basalt stones. On the other hand, the northern part of the bridge is built by Mimar Sinan. He enhanced arches to 64 and added a small mosque and inscription .

CASTLES

AfyonCastle The history of the Castle can be traced to 1350 BC. On the top of the Castle are various worship places dedicated to Main Goddess Cybele and 4 large cisterns (water holes). During the period of Seljukian Sultan Alaaddin Keykubad the castle was restored by the castle commander Ulumar Bedrettin Gevhertaş , a small mosque was added and a palace was constructed near the castle.

İscehisar - Kırkinler and SeydilerCastle The castle is located in Seydiler village in İscehisar district, Kırkinler is on the 32nd km.of Afyon-Ankara Highway. A settlement place, a church, a chapel and rocky masses used as tombs that were built in Byzantine Period still remain in the historical place.

NATIONAL & NATURAL PARKS

NATURAL PROTECTION AREAS

Afyon - Dandindere Nature Reserve

Location: Dandindere (Dandin River) Nature Reserve is 30km from Emirdag, northeast of Afyon, in the Aegean Region.
Transportation: Afyon is easily accessible by bus from all over the country, and the nature reserve is off the main highway to Elmadag.
Highlights: The park, covering an area of 260 hectares, is known for its groves of the rare Taurus Cedar tree (Cetrus Libani) which normally grows in southern Turkey. The Dandin River, which forms the northern boundary of the cedars, has been made a nature reserve in order to carry out scientific research and educational projects, and to encourage the preservation of the area. There are also many different varieties of juniper. Foxes, wolves, badgers, pigs, rabbits, partridges and quails also inhabit the park.

ORNITHOLOGY AREAS

Akdağ

City: Denizli, Afyon

Provinces: Çivril, Kızılören, Sandıklı

Surface Area : 42394

Altitude : 900 - 2446 m

Protection: Yes

Bird Species: It gains important bird areas status with birds of prey, such as kara akbaba (3 pairs), kızıl akbaba (3 pairs), sakallı akbaba (1 pairs) and küçük kartal (4 pairs).

Main Characteristics: mountain, forest

Acıgöl

City: Afyon, Denizli

Provinces: Dazkırı, Başmakçı Gölü, Çardak Gölü

Surface Area : 21000

Altitude: 836 m

Protection: partially

Bird Species: Angıt, reproduced both within marshes, and surrounding mountains, can be seen with huge numbers during whole year. On 1993, a flamingo colony, composed of approximately 150 lairs, is determined within Acıgöl. As this registry make Acıgöl one of the five areas, in which flamingos are reproduced within Turkey, reproduction is thought to not to be realized every year. Area, at the same time, It gains important bird areas status with üreyen kılıçgaga, akça cılıbıt, mahmuzlu kızkuşu and gülen sumru populations.

Main Characteristics: salt lake, steppe

Akşehir and Eber Lakes

City: Konya, Afyon

Provinces: Bolvadin, Çay, Sultandağı, Akşehir, Tuzlukçu

Surface Area : 53600

Altitude: Lake Akşehir 966 m, Lake Eber 967 m

Protection: Yes

Bird Species: It is an important reproduction area for küçük karabatak (50 pairs) and tepeli pelikan (a few pairs). Balıkçıl are reproducing in reed islands within Lake Akşehir as mixed colonies, and there are also alaca balıkçıl (70 pairs), erguvani balıkçıl (50 pairs), çeltikçi (50 pairs) and kaşıkçı (15 pairs) among these. Pasbaş patka (10 pairs) and gülen sumru (20 pairs) on sand islands between reeds, and büyük cılıbıt is breeding around the lake. You can face with numerous sakarca (max. 15.900) during winter. Area gains important bird areas status as shelter region during immigration for pelikan (max. 2000) and çeltikçi (max. 1536).

Main Characteristics: sweet water lakes, swamp

THERMAL SPRINGS

Important springs Hüdai Thermal Tourism Centre, Gazlıgöl Thermal Tourism Centre also Ömer and Gecek Thermal Tourism Centre.

Ömer and Gecek Thermal Resort

Location: North-west of Afyon, on the highway to Kutahya.

Transport: 15 km from Afyon. The nearest airport is in Isparta, 150 km south.

Water temperature: Between 51° - 98° C.

pH value: 6.5 - 7.3

Physical and chemical properties: Chlorine, bicarbonate, sodium, iron (4.9 mg/l), arsenic (l/15 mg/l.), carbon dioxide (423.1 mg/l.), metaboric acid (24.7 mg/l.), fluoride (4.32 mg/l.) and boron (10 mg/l.).

Recommended applications: Drinking, bathing and inhaling.

Helps to heal: Rheumatism, skin conditions, cardiovascular and digestive disorders, calcium deposits and aching joints, liver and gall bladder problems, eating and nervous disorders, gynaecological disorders.

Accommodation: Orucoglu Thermal Resort (4 star) - 428 beds. Omer Thermal Resort - 315 beds. Gecek Resort - 130 beds.

Gazlıgöl Thermal Resort

Location: 22km north of Afyon, on the highway to Eskisehir highway near Demiryolu.

Transportation: The nearest airport is in Isparta, 150 km south.

Water temperature: Between 40° - 71° C.

pH value: 6 - 7.5

Physical and chemical properties: Bicarbonate, sodium, hydrogen sulfide (3.75 mg/l.) and carbon dioxide (360 mg/l.), and metaboric acid (47.79 mg/l). Classified as hyperthermal (64°C) and hypertonic. br>

Helps to heal: Rheumatism, cardiovascular disorders, kidney and urinary tract conditions, liver-gall bladder dysfunction, disorders of digestive system and poor metabolism, calcium deposits and skin conditions.

Accommodation: Gazligol Thermal Facilities - 240 beds.

Hüdayi Thermal Resort

Location: 66km south-west of Afyon, 7km south-west of Sandikli.

Transport: Buses from Afyon. Nearest airport is Isparta, 150km south.

Water temperature: 70°C

pH value: 6.3 - 6.9

Physical and chemical properties: Sodium, calcium, sulphur, bicarbonate, fluoride and carbon dioxide, and is radioactive.

Helps to heal: Rheumatic ailments, aches and cramps, cardiovascular disorders, calcium deposits and aching joints, mental and muscular fatigue, nervous disorders and gynaecological disorders.

Accommodation: Kaplica Hotel - 64 beds. Yeni Thermal Hotel - 264 beds.

Geography

Afyon is an intersection place at the west of Anatolia and as a natural gate it binds north to south, west to east. Winters are cold and snowy, Summers are hot and dry, spring and autumns are rainy on the other hand a classic steppe climate is seen .

History

Afyonkarahisar takes its name both from the castle at the south of the city and opium plant. Begining from 7000 BC till today cultures passing from Calcolithic to Late Bronze Age, Hittite, Phyrig, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman Civilizations located in the borders of the city. After the conquest of Anatolia by Seljuk Turks on 1071 Afyonkarahisar was taken under the rule of Turks. After this date Afyonkarahisar was dominated by; Seljuk State, Sahipoğulları Principality, Germiyanoğulları Principality and finally in 1428 by Ottoman Empire.

Where to Eat

The kitchen of Afyon is rich with its great variety of meals . Sakala suop, zürbiye, duvaklı turkey, sırtsırta (double turkey), aubergine pastry, karnıyarık, flaky pastry filled with poppy, şepit are some of the examples of the local meals. Cızdırma, hamursuz, övme, cimcik hamuraşı, creamy bread kadayıf are some of the delicious examples of pastry.

What to Buy

Hand woven carpets coloured by pure root dye of Bayat district and hand woven silk carpets of Dazkırı are original productions of the region. They can be bought from various stores in the city centre.

Don't Leave Without

- Experiencing curative waters of Afyon's Thermal Springs,
- Visiting İhsaniye-Ayazin (Metropolis) region, Sandıklı Akdağ -Tokalı Canyon, Peri Bacaları (Fairy Chimneys) at İscehisar,
- Visiting Afyon Archaeology Museum, Ulu Mosque, İmaret Mosque, Afyon Castle,
- Tasting Creamy bread kadayıf,
- Buying Bayat's root dyed rugs and Dazkırı's silk carpets

Sites

Registered Immobile Cultural and Natural Heritages in Afyon

Sites

Archeological Sites: 113
Urban Sites: 1
Natural Sites: 16
Historical Sites: 6

Other Sites

Archeological and Natural Sites: 26
Archeological and Urban Sites: 1
Historical and Urban Sites: 1
Total: 164
Cultural (at Single Construction Scale) and Natural
Heritages: 675

TOTAL: 839

Contact Information

Provincial Cultural Directorate
Tel: (272) 213 76 00

State Fine Arts Galeries Directorate
AFYON Tel: (0 272) 214 20 28
Fax: (0 272) 213 76 01

Museum
Afyon Museum Address: Kurtuluş Cad. Afyon
Tel: (272) 215 11 91

Historical Sites and Ruins
Metropolis - İhsaniye/Ayazin Village Apemeia - Dinar/Center Amorium - Emirdağ/Hisarköy

Governorship : (+90-272) 215 12 46 - 215 06 60
Municipality : (+90-272) 214 42 55 - 215 22 53
Hospital : (+90-272) 212 08 02
Police : (+90-272) 213 80 04 - 213 80 05
Gendarme : (+90-272) 213 71 83
Provincial Directorate of touris : (+90-272) 213 54 47 - 214 12 21
Tourism Information Office : (+90-272) 213 54 47 - 214 12 21
Provincial Directorate of Culture : (+90-272) 213 76 00

LİNKLER

Afyon Governorship Afyon Valiliği

Aydın Municipality T.C. AYDIN Belediyesi - AYDIN

Menderes University Adnan Menderes Üniversitesi

AĞRI

Ağrı ,taking place on a 1650 meter high plateau, named after the majestic mountain that can be seen from the city centre. Ağrı is a gateway of east where you can have an overall view of Türkiye from the highest point. Ağrı hosted various nations and civilisations throughout history. It is one of the important tourism centres of the east with suitable tracks of the legendary mountain for mountain climbing and trekking in summers, skiing in winters.

Area: 11.376 km²

Population: 437.093 (1990)

Traffic Code: 04

Districts : Diyadin, Doğubayazıt, Eleşkirt, Hamur, Patnos, Taşlıçay, Tutak.

How to Get

Roadway and airway arrivals are available. Airport is 7 kilometre from the city centre.

Chough Station : (+90-472) 212 09 63
Railway Station : (+90-472) 2l3 79 l9
Airport : (+90-472) 216 04 02 - 216 04 01

Where to Visit

ISHAKPASHAPALACE

It is a palace that was built on a hill in east Beyazit in 1789 by İshak Pasha who is the son of vizier Hasan Pasha. Having approximately 360 rooms and lounges ,the palace fits the qualities of a traditional Ottoman Palace . It covers a field of 760 m2 and it is told that the construction process of the palace took 99 years. All the buildings of the palace take place around two "U" shaped courts, each within the other, and in all the architecture of these constructions (mosque - harem flats - free eating place for poor people - public bath, recreation hall for only men - ceremony hall and entertainment hall - tombs etc.) a perfect masonry can be observed. In the art of carving and wall embellishments , the traces of Ottoman, Seljukian and Persian Civilisations are apparent.

İshak Pasha Mosque take place in the second court of the palace, between harem flats and selamlık (recreation halls for only men) flats.The Mosque dominates all the palace with it's dome and minaret. With sharp curved arches and decorated huge portals the mosque reminds Seljukian architecture more than the Ottoman . Plastic naturalist large plant figures on stones that strange for Turkish art shows effects of Caucasus style.

minaret that, square planned and built with fully Turkish style, is a monument on its own. Octagon tomb built at near the outer walls of mosque towards the direction of Mecca, it has two storey that fit on Seljuklian tomb architecture style.

Outer surfaces of mosque and tomb (dome included) built with cut stone, window sides and some surfaces embroidered with Rococo style flower figures.

Cinviz Castle it is loccated near Kalekulu village, 20 kilometer south east of Tutak.

MOUNTAGRI

Turkey's highest mountain, Mount Ağrı (5165 m.) had drawn attention of scientists, mountaineers and wanderers and became a subject to various stories, folk songs and myths.

According to the widespread belief, the mountain ,which is mentioned in Holy Bible and the Pentateuch, takes an important place in tourism. The world was covered with evil things during The Prophet of Noah.In order to punish human beings, God ordered Noah to construct a ship. Prophet Noah, his spouse, his sons and their spouses as well as 7 male and 7 female of all species in the world and 2 male and 2 female reptiles would be taken on board. Prophet Noah had constructed the ship as the god ordered and entered the ship with the creatures. 7 days later, all the creatures except the ones within the ship had been vanished as a result of the flood that had continued for 40 days and 40 nights. With the withdrawal of flood the ship had grounded on Mount Ağrı, and the creatures had left the ship happily and spread all around the world.The

Mountain which has a special place in religion is very fascinating with its majestic appearance rapidly ascending to sky on a smooth surface,with its snowy peeks even in summer and with its vegetation and animal species.

Religion Tourism

İshak Paşa Palace Mosque (Doğubeyazıt): The place, constructed on a hill at Beyazıt by Hasan Paşa's son İshak Paşa who became grand vizier in 1789 , is complying with Ottoman’s palace organization with its rooms and halls, which are reaching the number of 360. It is said that the construction of the palace,760 square meters area, took 99 years. On the architecture of the building collected around two courtyards within each other and "U" shape (mosque - harem chambers - food aid chambers - hamam, reception room - ceremonial and amusement room - mausoleum etc.) perfect masonry, and on its engravements and wall adornments Persian, Seljuk and Ottoman civilizations’ mutual impacts can be seen.

İshak Paşa Mosque is,within the second courtyard of the palace, between harem and reception rooms. Body walls are two times higher than the palace. Mosque, dome and minaret is overlooking to all of the palace. Its huge portals with sharp arches and turbans reminds of Seljuk architecture rather than that of Ottomans. Big plastic naturalist plant adornments on the rock are showing the impacts of Caucus alien on Turkish art.

Square planned minaret, fully constructed with Turkish style have a monumental appearance on its own. Octagonal monument, constructed adjacent to external walls, at kıble (the direction of Mecca) side of the mosque, has two layers complying with Seljuk monument architecture tradition. Window corners and some surfaces of the mosque and the monuments externally fully made up of cut rock (including dome) and are decorated with Rococo style embroideries that figure out trees and flowers.

MountAğrı: Turkey’s highest mountain, Mount Ağrı (5165 m.) had drawn attention of scientists, mountaineers and wanderers and subjected to various stories, türkü (folk songs) and myths.

According to a widespread belief mentioned in the Holy Bible and the Pentateuch, an evil covered the world during The Prophet Noah. With the aim of rebuking human beings, God ordered Noah to construct a ship. Prophet Noah, his spouse, his sons, and one apiece from all creatures in the world will be on board of the ship. Prophet Noah, had constructed the ship in parallel to the order of the God and filled the ship with the creatures.All creatures on the ship had been vanished as a result of the Flood. After the flood had come to an end, the ship grounded on Mount Ağrı, and creatures within it left the ship and spread all around of the world.

Mountain, which is very special in terms of religion due to this religious tale, is very impressive with its majestic appearance,height, its snowy peaks even during summer months,fauna and flora.

Ağrı - Mount Ararat

Turkey's highest mountain, Ararat, has a legendary status due to its geologic location and the fact that it is believed to have been the final resting place of Noah’s Ark. This peak, mentioned in the Bible, has several names in different languages, the main ones being Ararat, Kuh - i Nuh and Cebel ul Haristir.

Prof. Frederick Von Parat successfully reached its summit, which Marco Polo said no-one would ever climb, on 9 October 1829. The former president of the Mountaineering Federation, Dr. Bozkurt Ergor on 21 February 1970 made the second ascent. Thousands of visitors came in 1980, and ten years later climbing was banded but this was lifted in 1998 when the Mountaineering Federation gave permission to a group of climbers.

Height: 5165 m.

Location: Eastern Anatolia, near the border with Iran and Georgia, between the Aras and Murat Rivers.

Best Time for Climbing: July to September. Winter climbing is very difficult but extremely rewarding.

Characteristics: Mount Ararat (5165m) is the highest peak in Turkey and Europe. It is a volcanic mountain made up of basalt, which changes to andesite lava around 4000 m. At the summit there is a glacier, and on the eastern slope is the Serdarbulak ridge, with Kucuk (Little) Ararat at 3896m. The height of Mount Ararat, along with its glaciers, geological formations, people, and mountain meadows covered snow has an alluring, almost magical appearance.

Transportation and Accommodations: The Trabzon-Erzurum-Tehran International Highway winds around the foothills of Mt. Ararat and leads to Iran. There are regular air, rail and bus connections between Ankara and Erzurum. Dogubeyazit is the closest city to the mountain, easily accessible from Mt. Ararat and Erzurum. There are a number of restaurants and lodging places in the city and the surrounding area.

Climbing Equipments: Crampons, rope (11mm), an ice pick and safety gear such as an ice-auger and climbing tape.

Summer Ascents: Sleeping bags made for temperatures of -5, -10 ºC, anorak, wind jacket, other camping gear and important supplies.
In order to climb Mount Ararat and/or Little Ararat, permission is required and it is mandatory that climbers begin their journey from the following points.

* Ascents of Mt. Ararat can only be attempted on the portion of the face that is within the district boundaries Dogubeyazit, and must follow the Dogubeyazit - Topcatan village - Eli Ciftligi route.

* Ascents up Little Ararat may only be made along the northwest face. The easiest route in terms of communication and accessibility, and the most commonly followed one, is the southern route.

* Climbers staying at Dogubeyazit can make their final preparations for climbing here and continue by car to the village of Eli. After getting water here, the first campsite, which is at 2800 m, takes 7-8 hours to reach. On the second day, after a 4-6 hour climb, one can expect to reach the next campsite at around 4200 m. It is obligatory for climbers to be equipped with crampons, rope and ice-picks. It takes about 8-10 hours to reach the peak and to return to the first campsite at 2800 m.

Ağrı - Bubi mountian Winter Sports Center (Winter tourism)

WINTER SPORTS

AĞRI - BubiMountain

This ski resort is on the mountain of Bubi, in Eastern Anatolia, 18km south-west of the centre of Agri.

Arrival: There are flights from Ankara and Istanbul, and transport from Agri to the resort is only by private vehicles.

Geography: The ski season runs between December to April. The area has a terrestrial climate, and the resort is covered with alpine meadows, which is covered with 1-2m of snow in the winter.

Facilities: There is a ski lodge belonging to the Agri City Directorate, and a café. There is a T-bar and chair-lift.

THERMAL SPRINGS

Ağrı is rich with its thermal centers. There are Yılanlı, Davut and Köprü thermal springs in Diyadin . Spring waters are beneficial for rheumatism and dermatological problems.

BUZCAVE

The cave taking place on the slope of Mount Ağrı , near Telçeker town, fascinates the visitors with stalactites and stalagmites. Regular daily tours are arranged to the cave.

ORNITHOLOGY AREAS

Sarısu Plains

City: Ağrı

Provinces: Patnos

Surface Area : 4800

Altitude : 1850 m

Protection: N/A

Bird Species: It gains important bird areas status with turna (10 pairs) population.

Main Characteristics: sweet water swamp

Doğubeyazıt Sazlığı

City: Ağrı

Provinces: Doğubeyazıt

Surface Area : 8750

Altitude : 1520 m

Protection: N/A

Bird Species: Important numbers of (10 pairs) çayır delicesi reproduce within the region.

Main Characteristics: sweet water swamp, steppe

Geography

Ağrı is surrounded by Kars and Iğdır at north, Erzurum and Muş at west, Bitlis and Van at south, and Iran border at east. Most of the territory of Ağrı is mountainous and undulate.The mountains of Ağrı strech in series. Rich, grassy plants cover the surface of the province. Grasses refresh at spring and extinct at fall because of the cold weather. Winters are cold whereas summers are dry and hot.

History

Located at the east edge of Türkiye, Ağrı became a settlement begining from the ancient times and a stage for various civilisations . Being a part of Anatolia and a cradle of various rich and advanced civilizations, the history of Ağrı can be traced to 18th century BC. Hurris are one of the oldest civilisations settled in Ağrı. In the middle of the 7th century the dominance of the province had passed to Arabs. When Seljuk Turks entered to Anatolia ,the province was dependent to Byzantines yet it was dominated by Seljuk Turks in 1054.The province that was once a sanjak before the period of Republic was named as Doğu Bayazıt .It was taken to Karaköse in 1927 and finally called as Ağrı in 1938.

Where to Eat

Because of the great amount of stockbreeding in the region there is a considerable consuption of meat and animal products. There are fish and local restaurants around the cute Balık gölü (fish lake) .

What to Buy

Mohair gloves and socks are suggested as original local cloth accessories .

Don't Leave Without

- Visiting İshak Paşa Palace,
- climbing Mount Ağrı, the highest mountain of Türkiye and Europe, (Don't forget to take permission),
- Tasting Abdigör köfte (meatball),
- Buying some pair of mohair gloves and socks for winters.

Sites

Registered Immobile Cultural and Natural Heritages in Ağrı

Sites

Archeological Sites: 7
Urban Sites: -
Natural Sites: 4
Historical Sites: -
Total: 11
Cultural (at Single Construction Scale) and Natural
Heritages: 18

TOTAL: 29

Contact Information

Provincial Cultural Directorate
Tel: (472) 213 76 00-01
Fax: (472) 215 39 18

Governorship : (+90-472) 215 77 66
Municipality : (+90-472) 215 10 23
Hospital : (+90-472) 215 30 96
Police : (+90-472) 215 28 93
Gendarme : (+90-472) 213 71 83
Provincial Directorate : (+90-472) 215 37 30
Tourism Information Office : (+90-472) 321 20 09
Provincial Culture Directorate : (+90-472) 213 76 00
Frontier Civil Administration Office: : (+90-472) 321 24 54

Links

Ağrı Governorship T.C Ağrı Valiliği

OHAL(Emergency Rule Administration) http://www.ohal.gov.tr/

AKSARAY

Traffic Code: 68

Aksaray is located at middle Anatolia region, it was an important trade centre on the ancient silk road, and nowadays it is still placed on intersection point of main roads lies between east to west and north to south. Historical background of city can be traced to 8000 BC. Years and there are cultural creations those related to various civilisations. Aksaray that sited as the beginning gate of Capadocia, offers various and interesting vacation facilities to its visitors with apart from cultural values and also natural riches.

Districts: Ağaçören, Güzelyurt, Gülağaç, Eskil, Ortaköy, Sarıyahşi.

How to Get

Aksaray is placed on intersection point of road ways lies between east to west and north to south, and at the entrance place of Capadocia.

Where to Visit

IHLARAVALLEY

40 kilometre away from Aksaray. Valley can be reached by turning at the 11th kilometre point of Aksaray - Nevşehir roadway. Canyon constituted by breaks and collapses come out with getting cold of lavas that contains dense basalt and andesite substances and run over from Hasandağ mountain. On that split area an Melendiz brook find way to flow and give today's shape to canyon, that brook was named in early ages 'Potamus Kapadukus" which means river of Capadocia. Valley lies 14 kilometre long.starts from Ihlara, come to an end at Selime. Valley's hight reach to 100 - 150 meter at some places. Across the valley there are innumerable shelters, tombs and churches that all engraved in to rocks present. Some of the shelters and church's are related each other with tunnels that similar to underground cities.

MUSEUMS AND ANCIENT CITIES

AksarayMuseum: Museum is founded in the "Zinciriye Medresesi" an building remains from Karamanoğulları governmental period 14th century at the year of 1969, it is still continue its activities in the same building. Museum placed on Zincirli quarter, centre county of province Aksaray. At the museum Archaeological and ethnographic work of arts are exhibited.

Museum Tel: (+90-382) 213 16 67

Under Ground Cities: In spite of under ground cities are generally concentrated on Güzelyurt and Gülağaç counties, there can be seen some under ground cities at the whether Centre county or Ortaköy county. At the Güzelyurt county centre and at the Manastır (monastery) valley there are three revealed under ground cities present. At the Gülağaç county Saratlı under ground city is revealed and lighted.

Antic Nora Viranşehir (HelvadereTown): Nora town was builded on a slope of Hasandağ mountain, placed 30 kilometres south of Aksaray. It was an important military base because of strategically position. Town preserve its importance at the Rome and Byzantine period too, so there are lots of churches are present now. Out standing buildings are remained from Byzantine period. Those churches can be partly damaged but also some of various frescos are still take attention on them.

Acemhöyük (Persian mound) Antic Settlement: Acemhöyük is at the Yeşilova 18 kilometer north - west from Aksaray. In the mound an great palace and its depot remaining from Asur Trade Colonies Period, brought to light with the systematically excavation process until year of 1948. Moreover; aquiline mouthed jugs, signets and ceramics founded.

Aşıklı Tumulus: Aşıklı Höyük is placed at the Kızılkaya village, nearly 1 kilometre south of village on the shore of Melendiz brook, and 25 kilometres south - east from Aksaray.

Aşıklı is in side of an place spread by volcanic tufa at the Capadocia of Aksaray, first settlements began at 8 thousand BC. Aşıklı Tumulus, is one of the most important ruin places founded at Anatolia and nearly east that exhibits oldest 'first village settlements' remains from Aceramic Neolithic Period.

RELIGIOUS MONUMENTS

Ulu Mosque, Eğri Minaret (Red Minaret), Tapduk Emre Tomb (Tapduk Emre Village), Sheikh Hamid-i Veli (Somuncu Baba) Tomb (at city Centre), Kılıçarslan Tomb (at city Centre): Sheikh Cemaleddin-i Aksarayi İtifakhanesi, Suffering place and small mosque are most important mosques and tombs of Aksaray.

Ulu Mosque (Karamanoğlu Mosque, Center): It is written on the inscription of the mosque on an accumulated hill that it was constructed to Architecture Mehmet Firuz Bey by Karamanoğlu Mehmet Bey between 1408 and 1409. Most important characteristic of the mosque which is a typical piece of Karamanoğlu art is its minbar(pulpit beside the mihrab reached by a long, straight flight of steps), which is constructed from ebony, as one of the master piece of art of wood of Seljuk period.

Eğri Minaret (Red Minaret, Center): It belongs to Seljuk period, and thought to be constructed between 1221 and 1236. It is also known as Red Minaret as it is made up of red bricks.

TaptukEmreVillage and Monument (TaptukEmreVillage): 20 kilometers north of the province of Aksaray, the village was founded on the skirts of small Ekecik Mount, and mentioned that it was belongeds to Taptuk Emre. There are mosque and monument, at the most upper part of the skirts of the mountain. A sarcophagus was placed on the grave of the Taptuk Emre without damaging it

Yunus Emre Mausoleum (Ortaköy - ReşadiyeVillage): It is within Reşadiye village 20 kilometers from the province center of Ortaköy, Aksaray. The hill on which mausoleum is present, is also known as hill of visit (ziyaret tepesi) by people.

Kaya Mosque (Güzelyurt): It is at the Güzelyurt province center. It is thought to be remained from XIVth century.

Selime Sultan Mausoleum (SelimeVillage): Mausoleum within Selime village reflects the early period characteristics in connection with both architecture and decoration. Rocks and bricks were embellished on within the other. It is dating back to the beginning of XIIIth century according to its architectural style and materials.

Church Mosque (Saint Gregorius Church) (Güzelyurt): It is in Güzelyurt province center reflecting the pieces of art of Chirstianity period , and has a great importance for Orthodox society. It is constructed in 385 A. D. inspired from the shape of the close cross. The church which is modified with various additions and repairs, then turned into a mosque with converting its bell tower into a minaret.

Saint Anargiros Church (Güzelyurt): It is at the Güzelyurt province center. Closed cross planned church, was constructed with fully engraving into rock including its domes and columns. Church was finally repaired in 1884. It is understood from the date 1887 on its dome that it was constructed three years after repair of the frescos. There are people who coming for pilgrimage from Vatican city today.

On November,1 which is the religious day of Saint Anargiros, patients are praying till to morning with organizing a great ceremony in the church.

Saint Georges Church (KırkdamaltıChurch, Belisırma): It is the highest church in the region, and thought to be constructed between 1283 and 1295. An inscription encircle all over the church. All subjects narrated in the Holy Bible and a picture of Seljuk Sultan, II Mesud are depicted on the fresco of the church.

Selime Cathedral (Selime): There are two lined columns within the cathedral, which is on a high place engraved into rocks. These columns are separating cathedral into three landing stairs.

CastleMonasteryChurch (Selime): It is one of the biggest religious organizations in Cappadocia. Monastery is dating between VIIIth and XIVth century or Xth century, and figured frescos within the church are dating between the end of Xth and beginning of XIth century. There are illustrations such as the depiction of Jesus Christ rising to the sky, Herald and Virgin Mary.

YüksekChurch (Center): Church, which is also known as monastery , is a stone masonry on steep rocks. It is about three kilometers away from city center.

KızılChurch (Sivrihisar): It took the name Kızıl Church as it is made up of red cut stone. Church is dated back to Vth- VIth century.

SivişliChurch (Güzelyurt): This is a rock engraved church within the borough. Portraits of Jesus Christ and Virgin Mary in the middle and Apostles on the sides of the dome are present.

Antique Nora Viranşehir (Helvandere Borough): This small town 30 kilometers south of Aksaray, at the skirts of Mount Hasan, had been settled since Roman and Byzantium period. There are lots of churches within the town, which preserve their importance during Roman and Byzantium periods, today. Structures that have erected still belong to Byzantium period. Although these churches are partially demolished, various frescos are still draw attention.

AğaçaltıChurch (Daniel, Pantanossa, Ihlara): It is within Ihlara Valley, at the south side of entrance stairs of the valley. On the frescos, there are illustrations of Revelation, Visit and Birth, Escape to Egypt, baptism of Jesus Christ and death of Virgin Mary. And scene of ascend to sky is present on the dome.

PürenliSekiChurch (Ihlara): It is composed of four parts engraved on rock. There are graves on Narteks ground. Frescos are dated between the beginning of Xth century and XIIth century. Its pictures illustrate various scenes from Holy Bible and childhood of Jesus Christ such as Prophecy of the Prophets, Virgin Mary and Bishops, Herald, Visit and Worship of the Shepherds.

KokarChurch (Ihlara): Subject matters on the frescos dated to the end of IXth century or second half of XIth century are very rich. The descriptions as to the Last Supper, Crucifixion, Burial of the Messiah, Ascending to Sky, Duties of the Apostles sometimes reflect an integrity subject matter,which is very interesting. Adornments within two grave chambers of the church are the first samples made with red paint.

EğritaşChurch (Ihlara): It is mentioned within an inscription on the east wall that the Church, understood as one of the oldest structures of the valley and a huge temple was devoted to Virgin Mary. Though damaged, the frescos on which the descriptions of Jesus Christ sitting between two angels, Virgin Mary between two angels and six bishops, dream of the Prophet Joseph, Escape to Egypt, Baptism, Entrance to Jerusalem still draws attention with its very colorful and live drawing.

SümbüllüChurch (Ihlara): Monastery places are engraved into rock mass as two layers. There are pictures of Virgin Mary between Archangel Michael and Gabriel, Jesus Christ and three Hebrew juveniles in the oven as well as saints.

YılanlıChurch (Ihlara): Narrow cross branches at north and south is surrounding the central place adorned with an embroidered cross on its ceiling. There are pictures such as Crucified Jesus Christ, Entrance to Jerusalem, Burial of the Egyptian Virgin Mary, Visit.

BahattinSamanlığıChurch (Belisırma): It is a church with a single corridor. One alcove like dome engraved on north - and west - side walls, and three alcoves like domes engraved on south wall form the ceiling with the shape of a cradle.

DirekliChurch (Belisırma): One can reach the monuments of the priests and residants of the staff of the church through the door within the church. There are pictures as two lines on the columns over church. Inscriptions can be seen at both sides of Saints and Apostles. It is a monastery church dating back to XIth and XIIIth centuries.

AlaChurch (Belisırma): It is a church engraved on rocks at the east side of the valley and north of the village. It was constructed after Christianity had been set free. There are pictures of Saints and Apostles on the upper part of its front side. There are pictures of Birth, Anastasis, Entrance to Jerusalem, Egypt, Sanctification of Virgin Mary.

KaragedikChurch (Belisırma): It is established on a hill covered with grass leaning against a steep rock. It is a huge church constructed in XIth Byzantium style, and it reminds the Çanlı( With Bell) Church.

INNS

Alayhanı Inn: is in the border of Alayhan village on the Aksaray - Nevşehir highway. Inn's front side and courtyard are collapsed. Estimated that Inn builded by far border governmental ruler Pervane Bey at the period of 2nd Kılıçarslan.

Öresin Inn: is an inn remains from Selcuklu's at the 22nd kilometres of Aksaray - Nevşehir highway. Centre dome and gate of inn are collapsed. Windows are crenel type shaped. It has sections those each one has six arches.

Sultan Inn: is builded by Alaaddin Keykubat between the 1228 - 1229 years. Inn is a masterpiece art of Selcuklu's Period by the perspective of architecture, stone masonry and decoration arts. It was builded purposes for to make, Konya - Aksaray roadway safe that way was important for military and trade purposes. Inn has classical formation of Selcuklu Inn organisation with summer, winter, barn sections and with a small mosque.

Ağzıkara Inn: is placed at 15th kilometre of Aksaray - Nevşehir highway, Ottoman source document's mention inn as Hoca Mesud Inn. Building process started at 1231 AC. in the Alaaddin Keykubat period, it is finished at 1239 AC. In period of Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev. It is fully organised with public bath, charitable establishment, summer and winter sections. Main gate of Inn contains every property of Selcuklu stone decoration art.

THERMAL RESORTS

At Aksaray sentences contains thermal tourism automatically remains Ziga Hot Springs. Ziga is 35 kilometer away from Aksaray on the Ihlara roadway. Waters are usefull first of all for rheumatism illnesses than for metabolism disorders, digest system illnesses, skin diseases, eye illnesses and gynaecological diseases, and more over for neuralgia, nervate and broken - prominent type diseases.

SPORTING ACTIVITIES

Mountain - Nature Tracking: Hasandağı Mountain is capable for mountaineering and winter sports. Presently Mount Hasandağ be in demanded by home and foreign mountain climber. At the mountain with the establishment of Klimatizm, that forest interior resting place, nomadism, mountain bike sports, mounted tour excursion and nature tracking are possible.


Fishery with Fishing Line: Mirrored carp and fresh water bass species are breed at Mamasun, Hirfanlı and Kültepe dam lakes. Moreover again crap, bass, trout and yayın fish breed at the out numbered present ponds. There are lots of coral fishes at Uluırmak river which river spring from Melendiz Mountains and flows to Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake). fresh water kerevites that breed at Mamasun Dam Lake are exported to foreign countries.

Geography

Aksaray province is belong to Interior Anatolian Region's climate; terrestrial climate type so summers passes with hot and dry, winters passes withcold and snowy days.

History

Aksaray province is placed in the Capadocia region, inhabiting of human starts from 8th thousand BC. Aşıklı Tumulus is one of the first village settlement place in Anatolia remains from Aceramic Neolithic Age. According to historical process Aksaray province was breed place for various civilisations. Acemhöyük placed near the city centre was one of the most important trade centres in the period of Asur Trade Colonies between the BC. 3000 - 2000 years. Afterwards on the province Hittite, Rome, Byzantine, Selcuklu and Ottoman Periods are experienced.

Christianity began to spread towards Anatolia with Disciple Saint Paul and his students at first century AC. This process take huge against reaction from çok tanrılı Rome Empire, so than first Christians are settled this region for.

Where to Eat

Aksaray coking tradition consist density of flour, meat, milk products and vegetable. Sıkma (tighten), çörek (bun), mayalı (fermented), erişte (kind of macaroni), kuskus pilavı(kind of rice), dolma mantı, katıklı aş, soğanlama (with in onion), tarhana çorbası (kind of soup), hoşmerim, bamya çorbası (okra soup), yoğurt çorbası (yogurt soup), arabaşı , sarığı burma (katmer), pelte, kayganayı are some of the famous meals and cookies of provinces. at the Helvadere town is famous with its delicious trouts.

What to Buy

At the province Taşpınar's rugs are famous.

Don't Leave Without

- Visiting Ihlara Valley and Güzelyurt, seeing Eğri Minaret,
- Tasting tourt at Helvadere - tasting Saç tava at Ihlara Valley,
- Buying Taşpınar rugs,
- Watching festivals of Ihlara and Eski (old) and Yeni (new) Gelveri Festivals at 15 - 30 August arranged in Güzelyurt (these festivals assigned for visit of Greeks to region whom used to live at same locality.).

Sites

Registered Immobile Cultural and Natural Heritages in Aksaray

Sites

Archaeological Sites: 92
Urban Sites: 2
Natural Sites: 8
Historical Sites: -

Other Sites

Archaeological and Natural Sites: 3
Urban and Archaeological Sites: 2
Historical and Urban Sites: 1
Total: 108
Cultural (at Single Construction Scale) and Natural Heritages: 446

TOTAL: 554

Contact Information

Governorship : (+90-382)213 50 20

Municipality : (+90-382) 213 54 92

Hospital : (+90-382) 212 91 00

Police : (+90-382) 215 07 15

Gendarme : (+90-382) 215 22 02

Provincial Directorate : (+90-382)212 46 88

Camps

Ağaçlı Camping
Aksaray
Tel: (382) 215 24 00

Provincial Cultural Directorate

Tel: (382) 213 08 82
Fax: (382) 213 09 42

Museum

Aksaray Museum
Address: Zinciriye Mah. Aksaray
Tel: (382) 213 16 67
Fax: (382) 213 09 42

Links

Aksaray Governorship aksaray

AMASYA

Area: 5.520 km²

Population: 357.191 (1990)

Traffic Code: 05

Districts: Amasya (center), Göynücek, Gümüşhacıköy, Hamamözü, Merzifon, Suluova, Taşova.

Located in the region of Middle Black Sea, Amasya is founded on the slopes of Mt. Harşena in Yeşilırmak Valley. With its over 7000 year historical background it became a capital of a kingdom, trained scientists, artists, poets, and became a training city for sultan's sons. First steps of the Independence War of Turkey also took place in Amasya. Along with these historical and cultural riches , Amasya especially takes attention with Yalıboyu houses constructed along the shore of Yeşilırmak . If you want to see a fascinating antic city where history and nature mingles and where you can see the best marble apples, cherries, peaches and okras of the world, Amasya is waiting for you with its cosy and hospitable people.

How to Get

Amasya is connected to its neighbour provinces Samsun, Çorum and Tokat with a governmental roadway. At the same time it is on the Europe - Iran international (E-5) High way. Nearest arrival points for sea way and air way are at the Samsun province which is 130 kilometre far away from Amasya.

Road way: is 1,5 kilometres away from city centre, arrival obtained by small buses for city arrival and by coach firms private services.

Coach station Tel : (+90-358) 218 80 12

Railway: Amasya is placed on the Sivas - Samsun railway, city is 261 kilometre and little more away from Sivas and 134 kilometre away from Samsun. There are two coach stations (Amasya - Hacıbayram) and six train stations istasyon (Kızılca, Kayabaşı, Eryatağı, Bovazköy, Suluova, Hacıbayram) present in the borders of province.

Train station Tel : (+90-358) 218 12 39

Where to Visit

AMASYA HOUSES

Hazeranlar Mansion Hazeranlar mansion is the most beautiful mansion at Yalı boyu (across the waterside residence) houses series. Mansion is one of the most elegant civil architecture samples of Ottoman period. Mansion built by Defterdar Hasan Talat Efendi for the name of his sister Hazeran Hanım at the year of 1872.

other gate is connected to Hatuniye mosque courtyard. Double shuttered males greeting hall gate opens to an area with low ceiling. There are four rooms at each corners and liwan of centre hall take place between the rooms. There are unadorned stairs with banister connects the east liwans to the entrance floor. Living rooms and bedrooms, court, coffee room, room with oven, parents and males greeting hall rooms and also toilet take place at the storey around the center hall.

CASTLES,ROCK TOMBS

AmasyaCastle it is placed on precious rocks named Harşane mountain at the west of Yeşilırmak river and city centre. There are 4 main gates in castle, which are named Belkıs, Saray (palace), Maydonos and Meydan (Public Square), there is an water well named Cilanbolu in castle too, moreover water hole and dungeon present in castle. A laddered under ground way from the castle that reach to 70 meter below river towards the kings tombs dated to IIIth BC. There are tower and mosque ruins present too.

King Rock Tombs There are 5 unit tombs placed at slope of Amasya Castle that all are engraved on the lime stone rocks which rocks extended like a straight wall. With the construction and location properties they take attention at the first sight. Their surroundings engraved till they completely separated from the main rock, than they reunite to the main rock with stairs. There are some ones large and some ones small totally 18 rock tomb units present. The famous geographer Strabon (BC 63 - AC. 5) whom born at Amasya, delivers an information that Rock tombs was belonged to Pontus Kings.

AynalıCave (Rock Tomb) is approximately three kilometres away from city centre, and on the way of Ziyaret district which way separated to the right from surrounding high way towards Samsun. It is the best - decorated and completed tomb among other King Rock Tombs. At the vault section there are 6 pictures on each right and left walls, which figure out 12 disciple. And there are some figures that include men and women on the west and east walls, although there is a composition figure contains the Jesus, the Virgin Mary and Disciple on east wall.

FerhatWaterCanal canal was built at the Hellenistic Period to fulfil city's water necessity, it has approximately 75 width and 18 kilometers long. It was built with processes of digging canals based on the balance system, carving some tunnels and bounding brick walls at some places.

KULLIYE VE THEOLOGY SCHOOLS

Bimarhane (place of cure) It is a unique building that remains from İlhanlı Period to nowadays. Is was built for the name of the Sultan Mehmet Olcaytu, Ruler of İlhanlı State and his wife Ilduz Hatun at the year of 1308. Especially front side of the building is valuable by perspective of artistic values. On the shackle stone of gate there is an human relief that kneel down, it is a peculiar property only seen at Amasya Bimarhane building.

Sultan IIth Bayezid Külliye: Külliye is built for the name of Sultan IIth Bayezid at the years of 1485-86; it contains mosque, theology school, charitable establishment, tomb and fountain. It the last developed sample of sideways residential (planned like big L) mosque architecture which was popular at the last quarter of XVth century. At the Külliye beside of mosque there are theology school, charitable establishment and guesthouse are present. It is estimated that old plane trees, which form a line with each of two minarets, are as old as külliye.

HaliliyeTheologySchool buling is at the Gümüş district centre in Gümüşhacıköy county, it was built by Halil Pasha, whom was the Governor General of Çelebi Sultan Mehmed, at the year of 1413. Is a square typed theology school with covered courtyard.

Kapı Ağa Theology School It is built by Hüseyin Ağa , who is Gate's Ağa (Director) of Sultan IIth Bayezid, at the year of 1488. Octagon type schema, that was common at frontal Asia tombs and Selcuklu monument tombs, is firstly applied to this theology school by the means of function.

MOSGUE AND TOMBS

mosque are worthy enough to visit. Other important mosques of Amasya are Gümüşlü Mosque, Bayezid Pasha Mosque, Yörgüç Pasha Mosque, Sofular Abdullah Pasha Mosque, Şirvanlı (Azerbaijani) Mosque, Abide Hatun Mosque ve Halifet Gazi Vault.

Gök Medrese Mosque (Center): Gökmedrese mosque, deemed to be constructed in Amasya (1267) by one of the governors of the Seljuk Empire, Torumtay, is a structure with three cupolas, covered with dome and vaults, reaching to the depths with a certain shape. Its hewn stone architecture, have a serious, sedate style with its ratios and simple adornments. Long entrance division of the mosque is used as theology school.

Burmalı Minare Mosque (Center): It was constructed by Vizier Ferruh and his brother Haznedar Yusuf during Seljuk Sultan, Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev II in 1237 and 1247. Classical octagonal shaped Seljuk vault adjacent to the left side wall of the entrance and wringling minaret added afterwards are the certain characteristics of the mosque.

Sultan Bayezıt II Kulliye (Center): Kulliye constructed in the name of Sultan Bayezit II in 1485 - 86; is composed of mosque, theology school, charitable establishment, monument and şadırvan (water tank with a fountain).

It is the advanced final sample of the mosque with side place (L planned) architecture, constructed during the last quarter of the XVth century. There are two minarets of the mosque. There are theology school at west and charitable establishment and guest - house at east. Old plane tress at the level of both minarets, are estimated to be as old as kulliye.

INN, PUBLIC BATHS AND BAZAARS

Ezine Inn It is at the left side of the road in the Ezinepazar district, and placed at the point of 35th kilometre on Amasya - Tokat highway. Inn is built by Mahperi Hatun, who is the wife of Selcuklu Sultan, Alaaddin Keykubad.

Taş han (stone Inn) is placed at Merzifon county, Inn built by rectangular plan that is resembling to 17th century architectural style.

Bedesten (bazaar of craftsmen) Bedesten is at the Merzifon county built by rectangular plan shops with domes surrounds center courtyard.

Eski Hamam (old public bath) Eski Hamam is at the Merzifon county, by the information written on inscription it was built at the year of 1678.

PROMENADE

Yedi Kuğular Kuş Cenneti (Seven Swan Bird Sanctuary) (Yedikır Dam) is at the 7th kilometre of Amasya - Suluova highway. Region is charming picnic place with beautiful nature surrounds dam lake, walking course, fish breeding establishments, social facilities of DSİ and common amateur fishery at lake. Dam lake began to protection place for birds, there are more than 34 species of birds like; swan, wild goose, wild duck, angut, cormorant and heron, etc., lives at lake;.

Borabay Lake By turning left at the 44th kilometre of Amasya - Taşova highway, you will be get in Taşova - Samsun highway, again turning left at the 14th kilometre of Taşova - Samsun highway you can reach a wonder of nature Borabay Lake. Borabay Lake and surroundings declared as tourism centre. Inside the woodland there are 9 bungalow type houses that each one 3 bedded. Lake is resort place of either home or foreign tourists by the facilities; camping opportunity, large coffee - house, places for picnic, nature tracking and resting opportunities.

Baraklı Waterfall It is at the Taşova county, 30 kilometres away from Taşova county centre, and in the borders of Özbaraklı district.

THERMAL SPRINGS

Terziköy thermal spring is one of the most important springs of the province. Gözlek thermal spring, Hamamözü (Arkut Bey) thermal spring and Ilısu thermal spring are the other thermal springs of Amasya.

Terziköy Thermal Spring (Curative Tourism)

Terziköy Thermal Resort

Location: 30km south of Amasya, south of Samsun, in the Black Sea region.

Transport: Many buses to Amasya from all over the country, then private vehicle to Terzikoy. Nearest airport at Samsun.

Water temperature: 37°C

pH value: 6.6

Physical and chemical properties: Bicarbonate, calcium, small amount of carbon dioxide.

Recommended applications: Drinking and bathing

Helps to heal: Rheumatism, eating disorders and liver, intestinal, kidney and urinary tract conditions.

Accommodation: Motel - 90 beds.

Ornithology Areas

Yedikır Dam

City: Amasya

Provinces: Suluova

Surface Area: 593

Altitude: 517 m

Protection: Yes

Bird Species: It gains important bird areas status with angıt (max. 1099).

Main Characteristics: dam lake

Geography

The climate of the region shows a transitional quality between the Black Sea climate and continental climate . The summers are neither dry as continental climate nor rainy as Black Sea climate.Likewise, the winters are neither mild as Black Sea climate nor hard as continental climate.

History

was hosted to Hittite, Frig, Kimmer, Lydia, Persia, Rome, Byzantine, Danismend, Selcuklu, Ilhanli and Ottoman civilisations at history between Antic Age to present days. At the year of 1386 Amasya included to Ottoman Empire Reign, province was famous as "şehzadeler (sons of sultan) province" by the special concern of Ottoman Sultans and their sons. Turks take control of Amasya, by the conquest of Melik Ahmet Danişmend Gazi at the year of 1075. At the year of 1285 Ilhanli State take control, than at the year of 1381 Eretna Governmental take control, at last Şehzade (prince) Yıldırım Bayazıd conquest province to Ottoman Reign at the year of 1386.

Amasya take importance at the similar to its old important roles in the passing years of history. First step of Liberation War of Türkiye started in Samsun at 19 May 1919, National Struggle's second step started with arrival of Mustafa Kemal to Amasya at 12 June 1919. At Amasya; plans for Liberation Struggle prepared, and decision given to assemble the congress of Erzurum and congress of Sivas. Sentences of "nations independence will be liberated by the again nations determination and stability" take place in Amasya circular, declared in Amasya at 22 May 1919.

Where to Eat

Amasya has a rich cooking tradition not only with its valuable historical and cultural roots but also with its rich vegetation due to the ecological structure of the province . Çatal çorba (Knife soup), cırıkda-cızlak (akıtma), helle çorbası (soup), ekmekaşı (papara (bread meal)), kesme ibik çorbası (soup), toyga çorbası (soup), cilbir, bakla dolması (staffed broad bean), hengel (kind of meat pasty), pancar (beet with preserve of dried meat), kabak kabuklu pilav (rice with marrow scale), sirkeli ciğer, yuka tatlısı (yufka patlıcanlı pilav tatlısı), gömlek kadayıfı, halbur cookie, zerdali (wild apricot)gallesi, bread with balck cherry (Amasya çöreği), sini su pastry (Amasya type water pastry) and Yakasal pastry can be given as an example for meals special to locality.

Food and beverage facilities licenced by the Ministry of Tourism

Tourism Facilities Data Base Updating Project is still in progress.Upon the end of the current process some of the nonexistent parts related to Tourism facilities and regarding information will be given.

What to Buy

Hand made scarf, colored cotton kerchief, home made kuşburnu marmalade, rice and apple are some of the suggested materials.

Don't Leave Without

- Visiting the Mummies section of Amasya Museum and Hittite God Statue (Teşup),
- Walking around Amasya Houses in Yeşilırmak ,Yalıboylu ,
- Visiting King Rock Tombs ,
- Visiting Bayezid Külliye II (complex), and Bimarhane,
- Seeing Borabay Lake,
- Eating Amasya's Marble Apple,

Sites

Registered Immobile Cultural and Natural Heritages in Amasya

Sites

Archeological Sites: 41
Urban Sites: 1
Natural Sites: 5
Historical Sites: -

Other Sites

Archeological and Natural Sites: 2
Archeological and Urban Sites: 1
Total: 50
Cultural (at Single Construction Scale) and Natural Heritages: 462

TOTAL: 512

Contact Information

Governorship : (+90-358) 218 10 33

Municipality : (+90-358) 218 80 00

Hospital : (+90-358) 218 40 00

Police : (+90-358) 218 50 05

Gendarme : (+90-358) 218 12 49

Provincial Directorate of Tourism : (+90-358) 218 50 02 - 218 74 27

Tourism Information Office : (+90-358) 218 74 28

Provincial Directorate of Culture : (+90-358) 218 29 80

Provincial Cultural Directorate
Tel: (358) 218 29 80 Fax: (358) 218 72 59

State Fine Arts Gallery Directorate Hazeranler Konağı 05100 - AMASYA
Tel: (0 358) 218 18 69
Fax: 218 72 59 Museum Amasya Museum Address: Atatürk Cad. Amasya
Tel: (358) 218 69 57

Links

Amasya Governorship T.C. Amasya Valiliği