Places to Visit in Malatya
Malatya, is a city located in eastern Turkey, which attracts attention with its historical depth and cultural richness. Throughout history, it has hosted many ancient civilizations such as the Medes and Seljuks, and was known as "Malatiyye" under Arab rule in the past, but was renamed Malatya with the Turkish conquest.
The city has a typical continental climate; winters are cold and rainy, summers are hot and dry. The ideal time to visit Malatya is spring. Historical sites such as Beşkonaklar Ethnography Museum, Yeni Mosque and Malatya Castle are important places to see in the city.
Elazig, Tunceli, Adiyaman and neighboring Kahramanmaraş, Malatya is one of the main centers that meet Turkey's apricot needs. With its rich history and natural beauties, Malatya offers its visitors an unforgettable experience.
Historical places
Malatya is a unique city waiting to be discovered with its rich historical and cultural heritage. Located in the heart of Anatolia, this historical city has hosted various civilizations, and this heritage is still woven into the city's texture today. The historical places in Malatya are like living textbooks that tell the story of the city's past and are a must-see for culture and history enthusiasts. This guide will list the important stops that have consolidated Malatya's place in history, from the Atatürk House to the Aslantepe Mound.
Ataturk house
Atatürk House is a cut stone building in Malatya reflecting 19th century Ottoman architecture. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk stayed in this building during his visits to Malatya in 1931 and 1937. Previously used as a community center and public education center, the building was converted into a museum after a meticulous restoration.
The Atatürk House now includes a special room where personal belongings used by Atatürk during his visits to Malatya are exhibited, a conference hall, the Atatürk Library and areas where photographs from the Republic Period are displayed. Atatürk held the opening of the railway during his first visit to Malatya and also stayed in this house. The interior of the house has been arranged in a way suitable for Atatürk's use, with furniture from the period, ornate coffee tables and books about Atatürk on display. The Atatürk House is an important cultural heritage point reflecting the history of Malatya and Atatürk's life during his visits to the city.
Aslantepe Mound
Arslantepe Mound is a historical settlement located in the Orduzu neighborhood of the Battalgazi district of Malatya. Arslantepe attracts attention with its cultural filling of approximately 30 meters in height and was inhabited for a wide period of time from 5000 BC to the 11th century AD. Rome It was used as a village during the Empire and then functioned as a cemetery during the Byzantine period.
Archaeological excavations at the mound have unearthed important findings such as a mudbrick palace, a temple, more than 2000 seal impressions and various metal artifacts. These findings show that Arslantepe was an important cultural, religious and administrative center where the aristocracy and the first state structure were formed. The mound hosted various civilizations from prehistoric times to the Iron Age and stands out as containing the world's oldest mudbrick palace.
Arslantepe Mound is considered one of the most important historical sites to visit in Malatya and offers visitors a journey through time from prehistoric times to the present day. This provides an excellent opportunity to understand the historical and cultural heritage of Malatya.
Pool of Power
The Pool of Power is a popular tourist attraction located in the Tohma Canyon in the Darende district of Malatya, close to the Şeyh Hamid-i Veli Somuncu Baba Complex. This pool is known for its natural thermal waters and cleanliness, and is a great attraction among visitors. The water of the Pool of Power naturally filters down from the rocks and fills the pools at various depths, and this water does not contain any chemicals.
Thanks to the constantly boiling water, the pools are renewed naturally, which ensures that the water is always clean. The cleanliness of the pool, the fact that it does not contain chemicals, and that it does not cause any discomfort to the eyes or skin in contact with the water are appreciated by visitors. The pool has three different depth sections, 80 cm, 120 cm and 150 cm, and offers facilities such as changing rooms, storage cabinets, toilets and sinks for visitors.
Spice Bazaar (Malatya)
Misir The Bazaar is a shopping spot located in the city center of Malatya, just across from the New Mosque. The Bazaar is known as a place where you can find Malatya's rich local flavors and products. There are shops here selling a variety of local products such as spices, vegetables, fruits and legumes. The Spice Bazaar attracts great attention from both local and foreign tourists and is considered one of the most popular places to visit in Malatya. This bazaar is an ideal stopping point for those who want to discover the city's cultural richness and local flavors.
Silahtar Mustafa Pasha Caravanserai
Silahtar Mustafa Pasha Caravanserai is a historical building located in the Alacakapı Neighborhood of the Battalgazi District of Malatya. Built by the Bosnian Silahtar Mustafa Pasha during the reign of Murat IV, this caravanserai bears the typical features of Ottoman caravanserais. The caravanserai, which has 12 rooms, shops, a pool and two innkeeper rooms, is one of the important historical and touristic places of Malatya.
Today, it hosts both special events and hosts visitors with regular tours. The caravanserai also draws attention with its symbolic areas reflecting the architectural richness of Malatya. Every year in September, History, Culture, Archaeology and Art Days are organized in the fascinating atmosphere of the historical structure, offering visitors a cultural feast. These events and the unique features of the caravanserai have made the structure one of the most important places to visit in Malatya.
Discovering the historical sites of Malatya is not only a journey into the past, but also an opportunity to get to know the culture and art of these lands more closely. Stops such as the Atatürk House and Aslantepe Mound offer unforgettable moments to visitors with elements that reflect the rich history and cultural texture of the city. These historical sites show that Malatya is not only a touristic destination, but also the center of a cultural treasure. With both the warmth of the local people and the stories told, Malatya manages to leave a deep impression on every visitor. Visiting Malatya is a perfect starting point to experience this historical and cultural heritage even more closely.
Museums and Art Centers
Malatya is a city that presents its cultural and artistic heritage to visitors through its museums and art centers. Places such as Fikri Çalışkan Art House and Malatya Museum reveal the artistic richness and historical depth of the city, while also reflecting Malatya's cultural diversity. These places offer visitors unforgettable experiences by exhibiting the works of local artists and preserving artifacts from ancient times. The museums and art centers in Malatya are ideal stops for those who want to discover the city's history, culture and art.
Fikri Caliskan Art House
Fikri Çalışkan Art House was founded in the Darende district of Malatya by Fikri Çalışkan, who became interested in art after his retirement. Çalışkan initially made works of art for home decoration using waste materials such as plastic, wire and iron that he found in nature, and over time he expanded this hobby and turned his home into an art gallery.
Nearly 70 works by Çalışkan are exhibited in the Art House. These works are made of natural materials such as sand, gravel, stone, and moss, and many are in miniature size. With these works, Fikri Çalışkan reflects Turkey's cultural heritage and touristic places. Visitors can tour this house in Darende free of charge and have the opportunity to closely examine the products of Çalışkan's creativity. This art house offers visitors the opportunity to discover the culture of ancient times and art made with natural materials.
Malatya Museum
Malatya Museum is an important cultural center where artifacts from the city's rich archaeological past are exhibited. Established in a building in İnönü Park in 1971, the museum was later moved to a modern building in Kernek Square. The museum contains more than 15 thousand historical artifacts, covering a wide time period from the Neolithic period to the Ottoman period.
The collections exhibited in the museum include valuable artifacts from various periods such as spearheads, ancient tomb steles, seals and swords. In addition, historical findings unearthed from the Karakaya Dam area are among the noteworthy pieces of the museum. Malatya Museum stands out as one of the city's main places to visit for history enthusiasts and is open to visitors every day. It is an ideal stopping point for those who want to gain in-depth information about Malatya's history.
Visiting Malatya's museums and art centers is one of the most effective ways to discover the city's rich history and artistic diversity. Fikri Çalışkan Art House and Malatya Museum offer art and history enthusiasts a journey from the past to the present, giving them the opportunity to get to know Malatya's cultural riches more closely. These places attract attention not only with their works, but also with their mission to protect and promote Malatya's cultural heritage. It is without a doubt that everyone who visits Malatya should experience this rich cultural experience.
Religious Buildings
For those who want to discover the spiritual structure and historical texture of Malatya, the city's religious structures offer visitors a unique experience. Religious places such as the Malatya Ulu Mosque and Hz. Imam Zeynel Abidin Tomb Cultural Foundation in the Battalgazi district are among the important structures that reflect the city's religious and cultural heritage that has continued since ancient times. With their architectural beauty and spiritual atmosphere, these structures meet the spiritual needs of both locals and visitors and reveal the diversity and richness of Malatya's religious life.
Malatya Grand Mosque
Malatya Grand Mosque is located in the historical Old Malatya region of Battalgazi district and is one of the most important religious structures of the city. The history of the mosque dates back to the 7th century, while the current structure was built in 1224 by Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat. The mosque, which bears the characteristics of Seljuk architecture, shows similar architectural features to the Great Seljuk mosques in Iran.
Brick was initially used in the construction of the structure, and later it was strengthened by adding stones. Despite being repaired many times over time, Ulu Mosque has survived to the present day, preserving its original architectural qualities. Among the places to visit in Malatya, Ulu Mosque is still actively used both for its historical value and as a place of worship.
Hazrat Imam Zeynel Abidin Tomb Culture Foundation
Hz. Imam Zeynel Abidin Tomb Culture Foundation is an important religious and cultural center located in the Atabay region of Battalgazi district of Malatya. This foundation is built on a large area of approximately 12 thousand square meters and includes a tomb building and a Cem house. There are areas for various social and religious activities in the three-story structure and a terrace. It has multi-purpose areas such as a sacrificial area, a large dining hall, kitchen, meeting hall, executive room, storage and guest house.
The foundation's garden is decorated with different types of trees and flowers, and indoor seating areas and playgrounds for children are also designed.
Hz. Imam Zeynel Abidin is a figure who has an important place in Islamic history. According to Islamic sources, it is known that he was martyred by poisoning in a dungeon in Medina and that his body was divided into 72 pieces and each piece was placed in different shrines. It is believed that one of these pieces is in Battalgazi, Atabay. This shrine, which has been considered sacred by those who have been devoted to Islam and the Ahl al-Bayt for years, is constantly visited by visitors from all over Turkey. These visits provide visitors with a sense of spiritual peace and devotion.
The religious structures of Malatya are indispensable stops for understanding the cultural and spiritual identity of the city. Places such as the Ulu Mosque and Hz. Imam Zeynel Abidin Tomb offer visitors an impressive experience not only with their historical and architectural features but also with their deep spiritual atmosphere. These structures are ideal starting points for anyone who wants to discover the religious and cultural richness of Malatya. Everyone who visits Malatya should experience the peace and inspiration offered by these historical and spiritual structures. These structures offer excellent opportunities to better understand the history of the city and to touch the spiritual heart of Malatya.
Parks and Gardens
Malatya continues to fascinate its visitors with its unique parks and gardens for nature lovers. Natural beauties such as Günpınar Waterfall, Levent Valley Viewing Terrace and Turgut Özal Nature Park are ideal destinations for those who want to explore the natural landscapes of the city. These areas offer perfect escapes for visitors who want to get away from the stress of the city and take a peaceful break in the lap of nature. Malatya's parks and gardens, each with their own unique features, promise unforgettable experiences to their visitors.
Gunpinar Waterfall
Günpınar Waterfall is located in the Darende district of Malatya and is considered one of Turkey's leading natural beauties. Registered as Turkey's 243rd nature park, this waterfall offers a fascinating view for visitors, especially in spring and autumn.
Located approximately 5 kilometers from the center of Darende, Günpınar Waterfall attracts many visitors throughout the year. The waters of the waterfall flow down from a height of approximately 40 meters and this impressive fall fascinates those who see it.
One of the natural water sources next to the waterfall freezes in the winter months, creating an image reminiscent of the Pamukkale travertines. Visitors can also reach the water source of the waterfall with a 1,5-kilometer walk.
In this area, which has the status of a nature park, various restaurants and cafes serve the food and beverage needs of visitors. This natural paradise has become an indispensable stop for nature lovers, offering a different beauty in every season.
Levent Valley Observation Terrace
Levent Valley Observation Terrace is located in Akdağ district of Malatya and was built to offer a panoramic view of Levent Valley. This terrace is a structure designed to exhibit the caves and geological formations in the valley to visitors. The valley offers opportunities for activities such as hiking and motor sports. The observation terrace is open to visitors in all seasons and is the best observation point of the natural beauties in the valley.
This project, supported by the Malatya Governorship, was built on a rock block using ship steel construction and glass. The terrace offers an impressive height, standing 240 meters above the surrounding stream bed. This structure, which attracts the attention of both local and foreign tourists, contributes to the discovery of the Levent Valley by a wider audience. This is a prominent tourist spot in Malatya and a place that should definitely be visited.
Turgut Özal Nature Park
Turgut Ozal Nature Park is located in the Orduzu district of Malatya and is very close to the city center. The park is known for its natural water sources, especially the Pınarbaşı Pond, and contains various iconic landmarks. The park offers a rich biodiversity blend of forest and aquatic ecosystems and hosts a wide range of recreational activities.
Various activities such as cycling, picnicking, nature walks, fishing and photography can be carried out in Turgut Özal Nature Park. The pond called "Pınar Başı", which is fed by a natural spring water in the park, offers a fascinating view together with the various tree species around it.
Turgut Ozal Nature Park, an ideal getaway for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend time in touch with nature, is a popular destination frequently visited by locals and tourists.
Beydagi Nature Park
Beydağı Nature Park is located in the Battalgazi district of Malatya and is only 2.9 kilometers away from the city center. Formerly a military area, this park was declared a nature park by the Ministry of Forestry in 2014 as an area of 33 hectares and was later expanded to 2016 hectares in 91. In 2017, the size of the park was adjusted to 73,40 hectares.
There are 38 different plant species in the park and it offers visitors various activities such as picnicking, walking, cycling, watching the scenery and accommodation. Beydağı Nature Park is considered one of the places that must be visited in Malatya with its ease of transportation, natural beauty and recreational opportunities. This park stands out as an ideal place for nature lovers and outdoor activities.
Müsiad Malatya Memorial Forest
MÜSİAD Malatya Memorial Forest is located along the Ankara-Gaziantep Highway and was created as a result of the joint work of the MÜSİAD Malatya Branch and the Regional Directorate of Forestry. This forest, which came to life with the sapling planting activity carried out with the participation of MÜSİAD Malatya members and their families in order to contribute to the environmental beauties of Malatya, is an important ecosystem that supports the natural life in the region. The Memorial Forest, which has a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can spend time in touch with nature, is among the places to be seen in Malatya.
Mishmish Park Fairground
Mişmiş Park Fairground is a place developed by Malatya Municipality in Orduzu district of Malatya. Enriched with carefully arranged landscaping works in 2009, the park has become a popular spot for families especially on weekends. Thanks to the park's large playgrounds, it has also become an ideal place for families with children.
Built on 35 acres, Mişmiş Park Fairground functions as both a park and a fairground and is particularly popular during the summer months. With the addition of a 9000 square meter fairground to the park by the municipality, Mişmiş Park has gained the capacity to host more events and visitors. With these features, Mişmiş Park Fairground continues to be one of the most preferred venues for social events and relaxation in Malatya.
Tohma Canyon
Tohma Canyon is a natural wonder located in the Darende district of Malatya and ends at the Karakaya Dam Lake. Starting from Sivas and flowing as a tributary of the Euphrates River, Tohma River forms an impressive 20-kilometer canyon as it flows through Darende.
The canyon lies between Somuncu Baba Mosque and Stone Bridge and is surrounded by steep cliffs. The cave-like structures and natural formations on the cliffs add a unique beauty to the canyon.
Tohma Canyon, which has become a popular place for nature sports in recent years, offers an ideal area for activities such as nature walks, rafting and climbing. The canyon, which hosts one of the important rafting courses in Turkey, has a 4-kilometer rafting course. A must-visit place in Malatya for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, Tohma Canyon offers unlimited adventure and discovery opportunities.
Tecde Waterfall
Tecde Waterfall is an artificial waterfall located in the Tecde district of Malatya, close to the main road. This waterfall, which does not have a natural water flow, offers a fascinating visual feast, especially at night thanks to the lighting. Located approximately 17 kilometers from the center of Malatya, Tecde Waterfall attracts attention by offering a different experience to visitors among the touristic places in the city. This waterfall offers unforgettable views to its visitors, especially in the evening hours, with the dance of the water shining under the lights.
Ispendere Icmeler
İspendere Mineral Springs is a hot spring located in the Kaplıkaya region of the Battalgazi district of Malatya and is famous for its healing waters. This hot spring is known for its spring waters, which are believed to be beneficial for health and attracts local and international visitors. İspendere Mineral Springs, which was previously an unused area, was renovated on 2017 acres of land in 150 and opened to health tourism.
Visitors sometimes form long queues to fill the fountains with water to benefit from the healing properties of the water. Battalgazi Municipality, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Eastern Anatolia The project is planned to establish a health and research center in İspendere, in cooperation with the Regional Development Administration and İnönü University.
As part of this new project, the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Application and Research Center (GETAT) will be opened. In this center, with the permission of the Ministry of Health, various alternative medicine methods such as acupuncture, hypnosis, cupping and leech treatments will be offered. With these innovations, İspendere İçmeleri aims to become an even more important point in terms of Malatya's health tourism.
Nemrut Mountain
Mount Nemrut is a unique geographical structure that acts as a bridge between the east and the west. Located between the borders of Malatya and Adıyaman, this mountain is approximately 95 kilometers away from Malatya city center and has an altitude of 2,150 meters. Mount Nemrut, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, has great historical and cultural importance and is one of the main places to visit in Malatya.
Built by King Antiochus I from the Commagene Kingdom period and located at the foot of the mountain, the tomb site offers visitors a tremendous historical experience. The 10-meter-high giant statues made of limestone here reflect the magnificent works of art of the Hellenistic period. In addition, the bones and ashes of King Antiochus were kept in this sacred area, making Mount Nemrut not only a natural wonder but also an important historical and archaeological site.
Malatya's parks and gardens offer perfect places to discover the city's natural riches and landscape beauties. From Günpınar Waterfall to Levent Valley Observation Terrace, from Turgut Özal Nature Park to Beydağı Nature Park, these natural wonders offer visitors a different beauty in every season. These areas, which are indispensable for nature lovers, have an important place in the city's nature tourism by presenting Malatya's ecological diversity and natural beauties to visitors. It is recommended that everyone who visits Malatya spends time in these fascinating parks and gardens and discovers the city's natural beauties.
Malatya is a city that offers its visitors a variety of experiences with its cultural and natural riches. Among the “Places to visit in Malatya”, there are many points from the historical Atatürk House to the Aslantepe Mound, from natural beauties to rich parks and gardens. The city is also famous for its apricot gardens, offering the opportunity to experience the sweet flavor of this fruit in person. Every corner of Malatya is full of its own stories and traditions, which makes exploring the city even more meaningful. Visiting Malatya gives you the chance to accumulate unforgettable memories in this historical and cultural cradle of Anatolia. Offering a different beauty in every season, Malatya is a paradise waiting to be discovered for all types of travelers.
This guide, which includes many places to visit in Malatya, offers a detailed exploration route for visitors to the city. If you want to get more information about visiting Malatya, which is full of historical and natural beauties from apricot gardens to Mount Nemrut, “Malatya Travel GuideYou can take a look at our article titled “Malatya’da ”. This article will provide you with all the important details about the city, transportation information, food suggestions and places to visit, allowing you to make the most of your time in Malatya.
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