Places to Visit in Erzurum

Erzurum is one of the oldest and most established cities in eastern Turkey. It offers a unique experience to its visitors with its historical buildings, natural beauties, museums and cultural riches. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide for travel lovers about the must-see historical places, natural areas, museums and churches in Erzurum.

Historical places

Castle of Erzurum

Castle of Erzurum, is one of the oldest structures in the city, built by the Byzantines in the 5th century. Over time, it was restored during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods. The castle awaits its visitors with its location in the city center and magnificent view.

The double minaret madrasah

This structure, which has become the symbol of Erzurum, was built in the 13th century. The madrasah is famous for its two minarets, from which it takes its name, and is one of the most beautiful examples of Seljuk architecture.

Three Tombs

Built in the 12th century, the Three Tombs are another of Erzurum's historical treasures. These structures, one of the most beautiful examples of Seljuk tomb monuments, attract attention with their stonework.

Rustem Pasha Bazaar (Tashan)

This covered bazaar, built by Grand Vizier Rüstem Pasha, was used as a trade center during the Ottoman period. Today, Taşhan, famous for its Oltu stone, is a great shopping spot for those looking for souvenirs.

Lala Pasha Mosque

Built in 1562 by Lala Mustafa Pasha, the vizier of Suleiman the Magnificent, this mosque reflects the classical architecture of the Ottoman period. Lala Pasha Mosque, which has both religious and historical importance, offers a peaceful atmosphere.

Aziziye Redoubts

Aziziye Forts, which played an important role during the 93-1877 Ottoman-Russian War, known as the 1878rd War, are another important place that tells the heroic history of Erzurum. Also remembered with the struggle of the heroine Nene Hatun from Erzurum, these forts are a must-see for those who want to feel the spirit of national struggle.

Natural and Green Areas

Palandoken Mountain

One of Turkey's most important ski resorts, Mount Palandöken is an indispensable destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With its peaks exceeding 3.000 meters and modern facilities, this mountain hosts thousands of visitors every year and is also ideal for hiking and camping in the summer months.

Tortum Waterfall

Tortum Waterfall, one of the natural beauties of Erzurum, is one of the largest waterfalls in Turkey with a height of 48 meters. With its magnificent view and peaceful atmosphere, it is a place that nature lovers should definitely visit.

Narman Fairy Chimneys

Located in the Narman district of Erzurum, the fairy chimneys attract attention with their red soil structure. These natural formations resemble the famous fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and offer a great environment for nature photography.

Uzundere Karagol

Located in the Uzundere district, Karagöl is a natural wonder hidden among the mountains. It is a peaceful escape, especially for those who want to camp and hike.

Ispir Yedigoller

Yedigöller, located in the İspir district of Erzurum, is a paradise for nature lovers. Located at the foot of the mountains, these lakes are an ideal place for hiking and camping. They are also a perfect getaway for those who want to be alone with nature.

Erzurum Botanical Garden

Located in the city center, Erzurum Botanical Garden is an ideal place for those who want to see different plant species and spend time in touch with nature. It is also a pleasant place to visit for families with children.

Müzeler

Erzurum Archaeological Museum

The Erzurum Archaeological Museum, which displays the history of Erzurum and its surroundings, contains many artifacts from the Paleolithic age to the Ottoman period. The museum offers a rich collection, especially for visitors interested in history.

Ataturk House Museum

This historical building, where Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk held the Erzurum Congress, currently serves as a museum. The museum is an important stop for those who want to closely examine the founding process of the Republic of Turkey.

Yakutiye Madrasa and Turkish-Islamic Arts Museum

Built by the Ilkhanids in 1310, the Yakutiye Madrasa serves as a museum housing important works of Turkish-Islamic art. One of the most beautiful examples of Seljuk architecture, this structure is an indispensable visit for history and art lovers.

Erzurum Congress and National Struggle Museum

This museum, located in the historical building where the Erzurum Congress was held, is full of documents, photographs and objects from the War of Independence. This place, which witnessed the foundation of the Republic of Turkey, is an important stop for those interested in our national history.

Erzurum Traditional Handicrafts Museum

This museum is a place where traditional handicrafts specific to Erzurum are kept alive and exhibited. It is a great stop for those who want to see local handicrafts, especially Oltu stone carving and copper work.

Churches and Other Religious Buildings

Erzurum Cathedral (Great Cathedral)

Erzurum Cathedral, built in the 19th century, Eastern Anatolia RegionIt is one of the rare churches that has survived in . Drawing attention with both its architecture and historical texture, this structure is an important visiting point, especially for those interested in cultural tourism.

Osvank Church

Located in the Uzundere district of Erzurum, the Öşvank Church was built by the Georgian Bagratid Dynasty in the 10th century. Drawing attention with both its exterior decorations and interior frescoes, this church is an important stop for history and art enthusiasts.

Virgin Mary Church (Georgian Church)

Located in the Tortum district of Erzurum Virgin Mary ChurchIt was built by the Georgians in the 10th century. This structure, which attracts attention with its Gothic style architecture and elegant stonework, can be visited although it is not open to worship today.

 Erzurum Caferiye Mosque Erzurum Caferiye Mosque, built in the 18th century, is one of the beautiful examples of Ottoman architecture. Located in the city center, this mosque attracts attention with its woodwork and offers a religious atmosphere.

Erzurum is a city waiting to be discovered with its historical riches, natural beauties, museums and cultural diversity. In this city where every corner tells a different story for travel lovers, unforgettable memories can be collected throughout all four seasons. You can experience the city in the best way by following this guide to discover the beauties that Erzurum has to offer.