Experience Eastern anatolia region (Turkey) ‘s Best: 17 Top-rated archaeological sites
Welcome to Eastern anatolia region (Turkey) . Whether you’re a local or a visitor, we have a carefully curated list of 17 must-see archaeological sites that will inspire your sense of adventure. If you’re looking to experience Eastern anatolia region (Turkey) like a local, we’ve got you covered with 17 hidden archaeological sites gems waiting to be discovered. And for those who crave excitement, we’ve compiled 17 thrilling archaeological sites that will get your heart racing.
Information about Eastern anatolia region (Turkey)
The Eastern Anatolia region is located in the eastern part of Turkey, and it is the largest region in the country, as it occupies 21% of the total area of the country, and it consists of a large group of high mountain heights, remote plateaus and steep valleys, and it is also full of ancient castles, churches and monasteries, and due to its proximity From both Armenia and Georgia, many of its historical monuments and archaeological sites derive from these two ancient civilizations, and the Eastern Anatolia region also offers many wonderful opportunities for hiking, climbing, and adventure in the wilderness.
A list of the best Archaeological sites in Eastern anatolia region
Get ready to explore the ultimate archaeological sites destinations in Eastern anatolia region (Turkey) with our carefully crafted list of top-rated spots. We’ve done the research for you, scouring the reviews of countless visitors to bring you the most unforgettable experiences. Let us be your guide.
1- Abdurrahman Gazi Tomb
Abdurrahman Gazi Tomb – The tomb of Abd al-Rahman Ghazi is located in the historical city of Erzurum, and it is one of the sacred monuments in it, where Abdurrahman Ghazi was a warrior of Ertuğrul, and a delegation distinguished by his courage and willingness to battle valiantly, and he also had a military career with Osman I He was one of the first leaders of the Ottoman Empire, along with the likes of Turgut Alp, and was the conqueror of the Byzantine fortress of Aydos. This monument was erected in honor of this great personality, who became an example of courage.
Place address: Abdurrahman Gazi, 25080 Palandöken/Erzurum, Turkey
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2- Ani Ruins
Ani Ruins – The medieval city of Ani combines residential, religious and military structures built over the centuries by Christian and then Islamic dynasties, and the city flourished in the 10th and 11th centuries AD when it became the capital of the medieval Armenian kingdom of Bagratids, and benefited from controlling one branch of the Silk Road. It also maintained its position under Byzantine, Seljuk and Georgian sovereignty as an important crossroads for trade caravans. The Mongol invasion and devastating earthquake in 1319 marked the beginning of the city’s decline. Today, the site provides a comprehensive overview of the development of medieval architecture by having traces and examples of all the different architectural innovations. The region was inhabited approximately between the seventh and thirteenth centuries AD, and the archaeological site of Ani was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2016.
Place address: Şehitler Mahallesi, Şehitlik Caddesi No:87, 36000 Ocaklı/Kars Merkez/Kars, Turkey
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3- Yakutia Madrasa
Yakutia Madrasa – The Yakutia School is one of the many schools that characterize the city of Erzurum, which was built in the year 1310 AD by Prince Haji Jamal al-Din Yaqout, during the reign of Ilhanli, the ruler of Olcaytu State. This school is the largest among the schools with a closed courtyard, iwan and portico in Anatolia, and it is one of the few examples that have preserved its existence until today, with its unique decorations and inscriptions, which is visited by thousands of tourists, both local and foreign, every year.
Place address: Lalapaşa, 25200 Yakutiye/Erzurum, Turkey
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4- Double Minaret Madrasa
Double Minaret Madrasa – The double minaret madrasa is a historic Seljuk work that today is a symbol of Erzurum, and it is generally assumed that it was built at the end of the 13th century, when it was called the Hatuni Madrasa, with the belief that it may have been built by Hint Hatun, daughter of the Seljuk sultan Ala Religion (Aladdin). The madrasa, which has an area of about 1,610 square meters, is the most important example of a group of two-storey madrasahs, which includes four iwans and an open courtyard, surrounded by porticoes on all four sides. Remarkable on the depth and aesthetic understanding of Seljuk stone ornamentation, mainly herbal elements were used for decoration.
Place address: Rabia Ana, Merkez, Cumhuriyet Cd., 25030 Yakutiye/Erzurum, Turkey
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5- Narman Fairy Chimneys
Narman Fairy Chimneys – The Narman Fairy Chimneys draw attention with their red color and interesting rocky ground formations. These chimneys, also known as the Red Fairy Chimneys, are located in the south of Narman district in the city of Erzurum. in the eastern Anatolia region. The valley, where the fairy chimneys are located, draws attention with its similarity to the Colorado Canyon in America, and is one of the most important tourist attractions in the city, where many festivals are organized in the summer months in order to protect the fairy chimneys of Narman and include them in tourism in the country, and the interest of tourists is increasing. locals and foreigners to the region with each passing year.
Place address: Yoldere, 25534 Narman/Erzurum, Turkey
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6- Ahmedi Hani Tomb
Ahmedi Hani Tomb – The tomb of Ahmed al-Khani is an ancient tomb of the great poet, writer, philosopher and mystic Ahmed al-Khani, dating back to the seventeenth century. It is an important historical monument in Agri province. The government has restored this tomb to its original glory, with aluminum frames added with exquisite artwork for windows and doors. The tomb, and a tea garden and some cafes were established around the tomb to provide refreshments and snacks for visitors.
Place address: 04400 Yukarıtavla/Doğubayazıt/Ağrı, Turkey
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7- Noah’s Ark
Noah’s Ark – The Dorupinar archaeological site, also known as Noah’s Ark, is a huge rock formation located in the southeast of Dogu Beyazit in Agri Province. According to the indigenous people, this area constitutes the Judi Mountain found in the Holy Qur’an. It is the last resting place of Noah’s Ark. It takes the form of a huge ship. It was discovered in 1948, and it was concluded that the large mountain in the shape of a boat is not artificial, but rather the result of a natural phenomenon, and the wise archaeologist Rayon White convinced the locals that it was Noah’s Ark, and there are paths designated for tourists in the area with signs that lead the way to the site.
Place address: Köprüköy, 76000 Karagüney/Iğdır Merkez/Iğdır, Turkey
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8- TepsiMinare
TepsiMinare – The Minaret of Tebessa is a clock tower located in the city of Erzurum. It was built first as a tower and later the clock was added, after which it became one of the most important monuments in the city. The basis of this work, which is believed to be entirely built on the minaret style in terms of architecture, consists of stone material cut in three colors, and its cylindrical structure continues, made of bricks that narrow from bottom to top is also an indication of this basic style, and this opens the door of the minaret On the inner castle, it is made of a flat sash and has a pointed arch arch. Perhaps one of the most distinctive features of the Tebessa Tower is its stunning view of the city and its environs in a majestic and distinctive view.
Place address: Camiikebir, Kırklar Sk. No:10, 25030, 25030 Yakutiye/Erzurum, Turkey
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9- Historical Erzurum Houses
Historical Erzurum Houses – The architecture of Erzurum houses is classified as a traditional building type completely dependent on climate, which is the product of the city’s rich geography, historical and cultural environment, especially the life, climate and building materials that influenced the design of the houses. These houses have a special architecture, the house consists of two floors, the ground floor is the main living area, and on the first floor there is an open winter room of Tannour house where the women live and cook in an open and sunny place.
Place address: İbrahim Paşa Mh., Yüzbaşı Reşit Bey Sokak, 25200 Yakutiye/Erzurum, Turkey
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10- Three cupolas
Three cupolas – The shrine of the three domes is considered among the most beautiful examples of mausoleums in Anatolia. It is a stone building consisting of three huge domes, decorated and engraved with the most beautiful geometric motifs. It is believed that the largest of the three domes belongs to Prince Saltuk, and it was built at the end of the century XII, while it is not known to whom the other domes belong, which are estimated to have been built in the fourteenth century, and there are differing opinions as to what the small square building next to the domes, which is often thought to be a mosque, should be.
Place address: Sultanmelik Mh, 25100 Yakutiye/Erzurum, Turkey
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11- Öşvank Church
Öşvank Church – The Oshvank Church is located in the Uzundar region of the city of Erzurum, and it is famous for its colored stone decorations and prominent figures. According to the inscription on the entrance front of the Oshvank Church, it was built between the years (963-973 AD), during the era of the Georgian dynasty, when the wall paintings were made, which It can be seen in abundance inside the church, in the year 1036 AD. The church is characterized by a huge dome with twelve windows, and the outer surfaces of the windows are limited by prominent moldings, and these windows, with pointed and slender arches, reflect the Gothic style.
Place address: Liman, Atatürk Blv. No:6, 07130 Konyaaltı/Uzundere/Antalya, Turkey
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12- Taşhan
Taşhan – Tashan is one of the most beautiful inns in Turkey, as well as one of the largest in Anatolia. It is an Ottoman work built between (1626-1632) AD, consisting of two floors with a rectangular design and an open courtyard. Today, Tashan includes various shops that offer all the necessities that belong to individuals and families, such as clothes and accessories, in addition to a special section for gifts and souvenirs that are handcrafted. .
Place address: Rabia Ana, Ayazpaşa Cd. No:31, 25030 Yakutiye/Erzurum, Turkey
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13- Monk Garden
Monk Garden – The Raheb Garden is an ancient green oasis at the foot of Mount Bayezid. It is located near the tomb of Ahmed Al-Khani, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Khani Museum and the old Bayezid House. The legend that Karim came here by crossing Mount Ararat and met Asli, tells the love story of two young people who cannot marry because they are of different religions. Today, the park attracts many visitors to enjoy its landscapes and explore its unique history.
Place address: 04400 Yukarıtavla/Doğubayazıt/Ağrı, Turkey
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14- Fortress of Oltisi
Fortress of Oltisi – Oltu Castle, located in the center of the city of Erzurum, specifically in the Oltu region, was built in the fourth century BC, and it was used as a caravan station for a period of time during the Ottoman era, as it extended over an area of 3000 square meters. The castle, made of cut stone, was restored. During the Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman periods. The castle was distinguished by the style of construction that was followed in it, with high fortified walls specially designed to repel enemy strikes, and inside, towers, bastions, and trenches spread, in addition to a small church and a temple.
Place address: Şehitler, Kale Cd. No:43, 25400 Oltu/Erzurum, Turkey
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15- Ispir Castle
Ispir Castle – Ispir Castle, located in the Ispir region, is believed to have been built in the 12th century by the Ilkhanate who ruled this region. Since there is no inscription in the castle to this day, no clear information can be obtained about the date of construction. Ispir Castle was restored in the sixteenth century during the reign of the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, and while the foundation of the castle was made of stones collected from the Koruh River, cut stones were used in the construction of the upper walls, and the minaret of the mosque was also in the castle. It served as a watchtower for the castle.
Place address: Yukarı, 25900 İspir/Erzurum, Turkey
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16- Dogubayazit
Dogubayazit – Dogbayezid has been on Mount Ararat for nearly 6,000 years and has plenty of historical sites to prove it. It is famous for Ishak Pasha’s palace with arches, ornate domes and views of the surrounding landscape. In this town, you can explore the site of Noah’s Ark and Mount Ararat, which is an ideal destination for climbers. Mountains and hikers alike, other attractions include solitude and tranquility, and a taste of the local cuisine.
Place address: Doğubeyazıt, Doğubayazıt/Ağrı, Turkey
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17- Ahmedi Hani Turbesi
Ahmedi Hani Turbesi – Tomb of Ahmed Hani, who was born in 1651 and died in 1707. He was a Kurdish writer, astronomer, poet, historian and Islamic scholar who lived in the seventeenth century. The Doğubeyazıt municipality built a mosque in 1990 near the tomb. The tomb is located 8 km from Doğubeyazıt, near Ishak Pasha’s palace. The mausoleum of Ahmad Hani is the most visited mausoleum in the region.
Place address: Ahmed-iHani Türbesi, 04400 Yukarıtavla/Doğubayazıt/Ağrı, Turkey
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Conclusion
As your journey through Eastern anatolia region (Turkey) comes to an end, we hope you take with you unforgettable memories and experiences that will last a lifetime. This amazing region is home to diverse landscapes, ancient cultures, and welcoming communities that have something special to offer every traveler. Our guide has provided you with the top destinations and hidden gems that make Eastern anatolia region (Turkey) such a unique and special place. But, we encourage you to continue to explore this region on your own and uncover new adventures and treasures along the way. As you journey back home, don’t forget to reflect on the moments that made your trip so special and share your experiences with others. Remember to keep the spirit of adventure and curiosity alive in your everyday life and continue to seek out new experiences. We hope our guide has been a valuable resource in planning your trip, and we look forward to hearing about your travels. Safe travels and until next time!