Famous Landmarks in Elazig. Attractions, Monuments, Sightseeing

Iconic Landmarks

Must-visit sites with cultural and historical framework.

Historical Treasures

Harput Castle: An ancient fortress dating back to Urartian times (2000 BC), later used by Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Seljuks, and Ottomans. Has panoramic views.
Harput Ulu Camii (Grand Mosque): One of Anatolia's oldest mosques (12th century Artuqid). Unique for its leaning minaret and courtyard architecture.
Meryem Ana Kilisesi (Virgin Mary Church): Believed to date back to the 2nd century AD, one of Anatolia's oldest Syriac Orthodox churches. Still actively used, reflecting the region's religious diversity.

Natural Wonders

Hazar Gölü (Hazar Lake): A large tectonic lake with clear waters, famous for a "Hidden City" submerged beneath its surface. A focal point for recreation and natural beauty.
Buzluk Mağarası (Ice Cave): A natural cave near Harput where ice formations persist even in summer due to specific air currents, making it an unique geological wonder.
Wildlife: The areas around Hazar Lake and Keban Dam Lake are habitats for various bird species.

Visitor Information and Tips

Access & Fees

Harput Castle: Generally open access to the ruins. No entrance fee applies for general exploration.
Harput Ulu Camii: Open daily for visitors. Entry is free. Modest dress applies; women may cover their heads.
Meryem Ana Kilisesi: Open for visits. Check area schedules. A small donation may be appreciated.
Buzluk Mağarası: Open during warmer months. Accessibility depends on specific conditions. A small entrance fee may apply.
Tour Options: Local guides can be hired for tours of Harput. Inquire at the local tourism office or via your hotel.

Photography & Crowd Avoidance

Harput Castle: Visit during late afternoon for stunning sunset views over Elazığ.
Harput Ulu Camii: Photograph the leaning minaret from various angles. Experiment with different light.
Hazar Lake: Dawn or dusk for calm waters and soft light, good for photography.
Less Crowded Times: Weekday mornings in Harput allow for more peaceful exploration.

Explore less-trafficked side streets for unique perspectives of the old city.

Museums & Culture

Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum: The region's main repository of historical objects, giving insights into its history.
Harput Culture House: Showcases traditional Harput costumes, tools, and handicrafts, presenting a glimpse into local culture.
Elazığ Municipality Cultural Center: Frequently hosts various cultural events, including concerts and theatrical performances.
Fırat University Facilities: Frequently holds academic and cultural events, sometimes open to the public.

Historical Sites

Harput Ancient City
The entire ancient city functions as an archaeological site, with remnants of baths, mosques, and houses from various civilizations.
Palu
Located east of Elazığ, the ancient town features ruins of a castle and an ancient bridge, giving insights into Roman and medieval engineering.
Harput Historical District
A well-preserved example of traditional Anatolian architecture, with stone houses, narrow cobbled streets, and remnants of Ottoman styles.
Religious Sites
Sarahatun Camii, Ağa Camii, Kurşunlu Camii showcase Islamic influence. Arap Baba Mescidi ve Türbesi has local religious importance. Ruins of other churches reflect diverse heritage.

Natural Attractions

Elazığ's natural environment offers serene beauty and opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.

Parks & Scenic Views

City Parks
Kültür Park and Şehit Fethi Sekin Şehir Parkı have expansive green spaces and recreational facilities.
Harput Hill
Has stunning panoramic views of Elazığ metropolis and the surrounding plain, impressive at sunset.
Hazar Lake
A beautiful lake with clear waters, surrounded by mountains. Its scenic beauty makes it a well-liked place for relaxation and photography.

Keban Dam Lake
One of Turkey's largest artificial lakes. It has vast scenic views, especially from the Keban Bridge, and a sense of immense scale.
Buzluk Mağarası (Ice Cave)
A unique natural formation near Harput. It maintains ice formations even in summer, making a cool and mysterious environment to explore.
Geological Features
As a tectonic lake, Hazar Lake is known for its geological formation and considerable depth.

Hidden Gems

Saklıkapı Kanyonu (Hidden Gate Canyon) offers picturesque hiking and natural beauty. Gölcük Nature Park is ideal for picnics and tranquil walks.

Local Favorites

Çırçır Şelalesi (Çırçır Waterfall) near Keban Dam features riverside restaurants serving fresh fish, a popular local spot.

Emerging Destinations

Villages around Keban Dam Lake, accessible by ferry, have tranquil rural experiences and serene lake views.

Lakes and Waterways

Hazar Lake is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports.

Numerous public and private beaches line its shores, notably around the Sivrice district.
The clear, calm waters create a refreshing experience during summer.
Some resorts by the lake have additional water sports facilities and equipment rentals.

Photography Opportunities

Capture the beauty of Elazığ with these unique photo opportunities.

Harput Ulu Camii Minaret

Its distinctive tilt creates a captivating subject for photography.

Harput Castle Panoramic Views

Capture the sweeping vistas of Elazığ city and the plain, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Hazar Lake "Hidden City"

While viewing the submerged city needs specialized equipment, the lake itself and its mountainous backdrop have superb photographic opportunities.

More Photo Highlights

Saklıkapı Canyon

The interplay of light and shadow on the canyon walls creates striking images.

Explore Canyons

Traditional Streets of Harput

Capture the timeless charm of cobbled streets and ancient stone houses.

Wander Harput

Buzluk Mağarası

Bring a wide-angle lens to get a photo of the cave's interior and ice formations.

Visit Ice Cave

Hazar Lake Landscapes

Early morning or late afternoon for calm waters and soft light, good for photography.

Lake Photo Ops

Elazığ City Views

From elevated spots within the castle ruins for alternative panoramic views.

Cityscapes

Museum Insights

Elazığ's museums offer perspectives on the region's rich history and traditions.

Museums

Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum: Has items from Urartian, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and From the ottoman empire eras.
Harput Culture House: Showcases traditional costumes, tools, and handicrafts, giving a look at local life.
Art Galleries: Limited dedicated galleries. Cultural centers or university spaces may host temporary exhibitions.

Cultural Centers

Elazığ's cultural centers host diverse events and shows.

Event Venues

Elazığ Municipality Cultural Center: Frequently hosts concerts, theatrical plays, and traditional music and dance shows.
Fırat University Facilities: Often hosts academic and cultural events, including lectures and shows.
Special Exhibits: Check local municipality websites or university event calendars for current showings.

Traveler's Tip

Visit Harput Castle at sunset for breathtaking views.

Explore Harput Ulu Camii early on a weekday for fewer crowds.

Historical Depth

Elazığ's landscape is rich with historical sites, each narrating a chapter of the region's layered past.

Archaeological Sites

The entire ancient city of Harput functions as an archaeological site. Beyond the prominent castle, remnants of baths, mosques, and houses from various civilizations are found.

Sites

Harput: Remnants of baths, mosques, and houses from various civilizations.
Palu: Ancient town with castle ruins and an ancient bridge, giving insights into Roman and medieval engineering.
Harput Historical District: A well-preserved example of traditional Anatolian architecture.

Religious & Architectural Heritage

Harput Historical District has a well-preserved example of traditional Anatolian architecture.

Religious and Spiritual Sites

Sarahatun Camii, Ağa Camii, Kurşunlu Camii: Historical mosques demonstrating Islamic influence.
Arap Baba Mescidi ve Türbesi: A small mosque and tomb with local spiritual significance.
Churches: Ruins of other Armenian and Syriac churches, reflecting diverse religious heritage.

Parks and Gardens

Elazığ city center features expansive green spaces for public enjoyment.

Urban Oases

Kültür Park: A large urban park with going on foot paths and recreational facilities.
Şehit Fethi Sekin Şehir Parkı: Another significant city park with similar amenities.
These parks act as welcome escapes from urban bustle.

Perfect for unwinding and recreation.

Scenic Viewpoints

Elazığ has several points offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Vantage Points

Harput Hill: Has stunning panoramic views of Elazığ city, notably at sunset.
Keban Dam Lake: From the Keban Bridge, there are vast scenic views, giving a sense of immense scale.

Great for taking pictures and contemplation.

Wildlife & Geology

Elazığ's natural features extend to the local wildlife habitats and distinct geological features.

Nature's Features

Wildlife Viewing: Areas around Hazar Lake and Keban Dam Lake are habitats for various bird species.
Buzluk Mağarası (Ice Cave): A unique natural formation near Harput, maintaining ice formations even in summer.
Hazar Lake: As a tectonic lake, it is known for its geological formation and considerable depth.

Birdwatching enthusiasts may spot diverse avian life.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Saklıkapı Kanyonu

A picturesque canyon with excellent hiking opportunities and natural beauty, for a tranquil escape.

Gölcük Nature Park

A peaceful natural area near Hazar Lake, ideal for picnics, relaxation, and gentle walks. It possesses a serene environment.

Çırçır Şelalesi

A small but pleasant waterfall area near Keban Dam, featuring riverside restaurants serving fresh fish, a popular local spot.

Explore Tips

Discover the tranquility of Saklıkapı Canyon for an adventurous hike. Enjoy fresh fish at Çırçır Waterfall, a local favorite.

Famous Landmarks in Elazig