Erzincan, Turkey

Erzincan

Erzincan is established on the flat and fertilized lowland, surrounded with high mountains. First settlement started in the region since B.C. 2000 years. It witnesses big earthquake-deaths and tragic events down the ages up to now because it is located on the fault line in terms of its geological structure. This case prevents development of city and increase of population. Erzincan and its surrounding is ruled respectively by Hittites, Urartians, Medians, Persians, Arabians, Eastern Romans (Byzantines), Seljuks, Akkakoyunlular, Ottomans and finally Republic of Turkey State throught the history. As it is destroyed and reconstructed due to the earthquakes, historical structures are not seen in the city. However, it is possible to see some structure remains in old Erzincan settlement area, which is abandoned due to the earthquake. Altıntepe site, which is an important settlement place belonging to Urartians, establishing a great state in Eastern Anatolian Region between B.C. 900-6000 years, is located in 15km. east of the city. Temple, place, columned reception room, outdoor temple and graves are the important remains, unearthed as a result of excavations, which are made here by Prof. Dr. Tahsin Özgüç, who is the one of the lectures of Ankara University Faculty of Language and History – Geography. Urartians advanced in metal art very much. Especially their vessels with bull head are famous. They were exported up to Etruria (Italy). Works, unearthed form Altıntepe excavations, are exhibited in The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara today. Mama Hatun Hostel and Tomb, which are constructed in 13th Century, are located in Tercan county, bounded to Erzincan. Furthermore, Kemah Castle, located in Kemah county, Gulabi Bey Mosque, located in the county center, Tomb of Melik Ghazi from Mengücük Oğulları, constructed in 1191 in the entrance of county are the worth seeing historical structures. Mineral water and also thermal springs, which are important in terms of health tourism, are located in Ekşisu location in 13 km east of Erzincan.