Elazig Turkey Travel Guide
Elazığ province spans a significant area in Turkey's Eastern Anatolia region. The city of Elazığ itself lies on a fertile plain, surrounded by a scenery that shifts from agricultural lands to rolling hills and mountains. This geographical position grants Elazığ a continental climate, which means hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. The province is cradled by the Euphrates River, one of the world's most historically important waterways. The Keban Dam, a massive hydroelectric project on the Euphrates, has created a vast artificial lake, dramatically redefining the local topography and presenting impressive scenic vistas.
One of Elazığ's most striking natural features is Hazar Lake, a large tectonic lake located south of the city. Known for its clear, deep waters, Hazar Lake serves as a popular recreational spot. The lake sits at the foot of Hazarbaba Mountain, which forms a dramatic backdrop and has opportunities for both summertime activities and winter sports.
The region's geology also features the unique Buzluk Mağarası, an ice cave near Harput, which maintains ice formations even during the summer months due to specific air currents. The surrounding peaks and valleys, created by ancient rivers and related to geology shifts, create diverse microclimates and ecosystems, supporting varied flora and fauna. This rich natural environment, combined with the city's strategic location, shapes Elazığ's development throughout history.
Elazığ boasts a history that reaches back millennia, with evidence of human settlement dating to the Urartian period, around 2000 BC. The old city of Harput, perched atop a hill just a few kilometers from modern Elazığ, forms the heart of this historical legacy. Harput served as a prominent settlement for various empires and civilizations, each leaving its mark about the region's cultural and architectural landscape.
The Urartians, an Iron Age kingdom, first established a fortress on Harput Hill. Following them, the Romans and Byzantines controlled the area, recognizing its strategic position. The arrival of the Arabs introduced Islamic influence, which further shaped the region. Later, the Seljuk Turks, a powerful medieval Turkish empire, captured Harput, bringing a new era of development and construction, including some of the oldest mosques in Anatolia, like the Harput Ulu Camii. This mosque, with its distinctive leaning minaret, testifies to Seljuk architectural prowess.
First fortress on Harput Hill.
Controlled the zone for its strategic value.
Era of development; Harput Ulu Camii construction.
Significant contributions to fortifications.
Region flourished; modern Elazığ (Mamuret-ül Aziz) founded.
Elazığ's historical narrative also includes its position as a melting pot of cultures and religions. The Meryem Ana Kilisesi, a Syriac Orthodox church believed to date back to the 2nd century AD, highlights the long-standing Christian presence in the region. This rich historical layering, from ancient fortresses to Ottoman mosques and churches, makes Elazığ a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. The city and its surroundings present a journey through time, defining the enduring spirit of Anatolia's past.
The region shares borders with various other Eastern Anatolian provinces, including Malatya westward, Diyarbakır in a southerly direction, Bingöl in an easterly direction, and Tunceli in the northern direction. This central position makes Elazığ a natural hub for exploring the broader area. The productive plains support agriculture, though the mountainous areas possess mineral resources and stand in stark contrast to the urban landscape. The interplay of water, mountains, and plains defines Elazığ's unique geographical identity, making it a location of diverse natural beauty and well-planned importance.
The modern city of Elazığ, originally named Mamuret-ül Aziz (meaning "the city made prosperous by Aziz," referring to Sultan Abdülaziz), developed in the 19th century as a new administrative center, eventually surpassing Harput in size and importance.
This guide helps one plan a visit to this captivating corner of Turkey.
Elazığ, a city in Eastern Anatolia, provides visitors with a blend of historical depth and natural beauty. It fosters a calm, welcoming atmosphere and a rich cultural experience.
Harput Castle, Harput Ulu Camii, Meryem Ana Kilisesi (Virgin Mary Church), Hazar Lake, Buzluk Mağarası (Ice Cave), Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum.
Explore Harput's ancient streets, savor authentic Elazığ cuisine, relax at Hazar Lake, hike in nature, visit Kapalı Çarşı, ski at Hazarbaba.
Currency: The Currency from turkey (TRY), Language: Turkish, Climate: Hot, dry summers; cold, snowy winters, Transportation: Elazığ Airport (EZS), intercity buses.
Elazığ experiences a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn seasons see mild temperatures and more rainfall, making them ideal for outdoor exploration.
