General Information
Hasankeyf: a fairytale city located on both sides of Dicle (Tigris) River and among the most important trade, science and cultural centers of the ancient times
It is supposed that this amazing historic site was originally founded as one of the two towers established for the protection of the area upon the order of Byzantine Emperor Constantine in the 4th century.
The ancient city has rapidly flourished due to its central position by Dicle River and its engagement in trade aided by river transportation. Hasankeyf, which came under the domination of many civilizations ranging from the Byzantines to the Umayyads and the Abbasids to Ayyubids, lived its most brilliant period under the reign of Artukids.
Dicle (Tigris) River is the major life source of Hasankeyf which encompasses a variety of historical monuments belonging mostly to the Ayyubi and Artukids period. The river is effective on the region’s climate and brings along mild winters.
Do not miss the opportunity to visit Hasankeyf soon as the site is under the risk of inundation as part of the Ilısu Dam Project as part of the larger GAP Project.
Attractions
The home of innumerable monuments bearing the traces of history, Hasankeyf is ready to welcome visitors!
According to findings obtained, Hasankeyf castle which played a major role in the establishment of the city was built in the 4th century during the Byzantine Era. The site became one of the major settlements of the region before long due to the security of the castle and structural safety works conducted on site. The interior of the fort includes many residential areas including Büyük Saray (Big Palace), Küçük Saray (Little Palace) and Ulu Camii (Grand Mosque).
The entrance gate of the castle bearing an inscription of the Ayyubids is positioned by the stairs leading to the interior of the magnificent fort.
Hasankeyf houses also the largest stone bridge of the Medieval Age. The bridge said to be built in the 12th century by the Artukids is still intact in the present day.
The grand palace located north of the castle is supposedly from the Artukian period. Yet, no solid proof has been found pertaining to its date and by whom it was made as the epigraph of the palace is still buried under earth.
It is supposed that the Grand Mosque, El-Rizk Mosque, Koc Mosque and Kızlar Mosque exemplify the Eyyubi architecture of the region.
The Imam Abdullah and Zeynel Bey tombs located in Hasankeyf are also worth the visit.
Hasankeyf is the ideal location to visit if you want to get enchanted by a town with a unique historical facade.
Events
An important center of many civilizations and empires, Hasankeyf attracts attention for the Hasankeyf Culture and Art Festival.
Organized with the participation of many guests from all around the globe, the festival becomes the scene of new activities every year.
How can I get there?
Hasankeyf, with its eye-catching and historical monuments is located 35 km to Batman city center and in 20 minutes distance.
The Batman airport accommodates domestic flights from Istanbul 7 days per week. Having arrived in Batman you can continue your journey by renting a car or taking one of the buses to Hasankeyf.
Vacationers who like to travel by road can take any of the intercity buses leaving from any city in Turkey to Batman province. The shuttle services and buses leaving from the Batman Bus Terminal will take you to Hasankeyf in short time.
Right now it’s your time to explore this dreamlike antique city!
Source: http://goturkey.com/
