General Information
Nemrut: A magnificent historical site located on the eastern Taurus mountain range and the 8th Wonder of the World bearing the most valuable monuments of the Kingdom of Commagene.
Situated on the Arsameia antique road, Nemrut, 2206 meters in height, looms over the whole territory encompassing the Firat river crossing and plains.
The statues of Greek and Persian gods made in 62 BC upon the order of the Commagene King Antiochus and the king’s own tomb and temple are still preserved in the present day.
The tumulus and sanctuary include also stone carvings of gods. The eagle head is one of the the most well-known and intriguing carvings.
UNESCO has inscribed Mount Nemrut on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987 and called the site the 8th Wonder of the World.
Offering a rich cultural heritage and an excellent landscape, unforgettable memories are awaiting you at Nemrut!
Attractions
One of the most important legacies of antiquity the historical site of Mount Nemrut nowadays attracts the attention of visitors from many countries of the world.
Comprised of four sections and home to many statues and monuments, the ancient tumulus was made of piled-up pebbles and broken stones and surrounded by terraces adorned with fire altars made in Greco- Persian style.
The eastern terrace bears giant stone heads of gods seated on 10 meters high thrones. The stone heads are seated so as to face the east and the sun rise. The terrace bears respectively, the statues of the guardian eagle symbolizing the dominance of the Kingdom of Commagene in the skies; the guardian lion representing the sovereignty of the kingdom of Commagene on earth and the statues of the King of Commagene Antiochus I, Zeus, Apollo and Hercules. This section contains also King Antiochus’s 237-line testament including religious and social content. The northern and southern parts of the terrace are home to the stele reliefs of the royal family of Commagene. The statues are situated behind a fire altar and a lion statue sitting in front of them. Visitors can watch the terrific sun rise from this terrace.
Just like the eastern terrace, the western terrace is also adorned with giant stone heads of gods and a statue of King Antiochus I. In addition to the relief showing the King shaking hands with gods, the terrace is also home to the relief depicting Leo, the fifth Zodiac sign of Astrology. The terrace is a convenient place to watch the sunset and its stunning colors.
The Northern terrace on the other hand, is a ceremonial gateway connecting the other two terraces to each other. This wing contains also steles and pedestals in unfinished state.
Arsameia, which was the administrative headquarter of the Commagene Kingdom during summers, is located east of the Kahta stream. Known as the Arsameia Ruins, the southern part of the region bears a ceremonial gateway, and many statues and steles in addition to the biggest Greek inscription of Anatolia.
Visitors of the region should not miss the opportunity to eat at the fish restaurants located at Baraj Lake and buy original souvenirs depicting the statues of Nemrut.
Among the most impressive peaks of the world, Nemrut will impress you with its unique scenic beauty.
Events
Nemrut, with its fabulous riches and scenic view offers different ambiences any time of the day and any time of the year.
The ancient sites of the area can be explored by joining one of the three different tour options ranging from small to standard and big tours.
Joining the big tour one can get hold of the breathtaking landscape by sunrise and embark on an expedition to the ruins and monuments in the early morning.
The small tour comprises a short trip to Mount Nemrut. The standard tour to the monuments, on the other hand, is a greater tour that can be taken any time of the day as it does not last from sunrise to sundown.
Apart from that, the International Kahta Commagene Cultural Festival offering a rich program including panels and activities is held annually with the participation of guests from all over the world.
How can I get there?
Among the most special witnesses to history, Mount Nemrut is situated at a convenient location that can be reached easily via a variety of transportation options.
Having arrived in Adıyaman Airport, travelers can either get on one of the shuttle buses to Nemrut or rent a car and drive through Karadut village to reach their destination.
Travelers who prefer to travel by highway can reach Nemrut by continuing on the same main road after arriving in Adiyaman.
It is advisable that nature enthusiasts who want to meet one of the most impressive mountains of the world should book their tickets in advance.
Source: http://goturkey.com/
