Places to Visit in Sivas
Located in the Central Anatolian Region of Turkey, Sivas is a city that offers many alternatives to explore with its historical riches and natural beauties. With its historical texture, cultural heritage and fascinating natural areas, Sivas is a must-see destination for travel lovers. In this article, you can find detailed information about the most popular historical places, parks, museums and churches to visit in Sivas.
Headlines
- 1 Historical Places to Visit in Sivas
- 2 Religious Buildings to Visit in Sivas
- 3 Parks and Natural Areas to Visit in Sivas
- 3.1 Bride Rock (With Song)
- 3.2 Gurun Gokpinar Lake
- 3.3 Lake Hafik
- 3.4 Kangal Fish Hot Spring
- 3.5 Kangal Cermik Thermal Springs
- 3.6 Karsiyaka Picnic Area
- 3.7 Kızılırmak River and Bird Sanctuary
- 3.8 Paşabahçe Picnic Area
- 3.9 Cold Cermik Thermal Springs
- 3.10 Lake Tödürge
- 3.11 Yildiz Mountain Winter Sports Center
- 4 Museums to Visit in Sivas
- 4.1 Asik Veysel Museum
- 4.2 Ataturk and Congress Museum
- 4.3 Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital Museum
- 4.4 Kangal Dog Museum
- 4.5 Sivas Archaeology Museum
- 4.6 Sivas Ethnography Museum (Congress and Ethnography Museum)
- 4.7 Sivas City Museum
- 4.8 Sivas Şifaiye Madrasa and Medical History Museum
- 4.9 Zara City Museum
Historical Places to Visit in Sivas
Sivas has a rich historical heritage as one of the oldest settlements in Anatolia. The city is full of Seljuk, Ottoman and Republic period works. The historical texture of Sivas contains many structures that attract the attention of both local and foreign visitors. Here are the must-see historical places in Sivas:
Behrampaşa Inn
Built in the 16th century by Behram Pasha, one of the governors of the Ottoman period, this inn is one of the trade and accommodation structures of the period. The arched rooms in its courtyard reflect the architectural style of the period. Behrampaşa Han offers a shopping and relaxation experience intertwined with history.
Buruciye Madrasa
Another important structure from the Seljuk period, the Buruciye Madrasa, was built in 1271 during the reign of Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev III. The madrasa was used as a science and education center of the period and today it hosts various events and cultural activities. One of the most striking features of the madrasa is its stone-paved courtyard and stone portals decorated with fine workmanship.
Twin Minaret Madrasa
Built in 1271 by Ilkhanate Vizier Sahip Ata Fahreddin Ali, the Çifte Minare Madrasah is one of the symbols of Sivas. The Madrasah is particularly notable for its two high minarets on its front facade and its unique stonework. The structure, which is one of the most beautiful examples of Seljuk architecture, was also one of the important centers of Islamic education. Open to visitors today, this structure also offers a wonderful atmosphere for photographers.
Sky Madrasah
Gök Medrese was built in 1271 by Mimar Kaluytan during the reign of Seljuk Sultan II. Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev. This madrasa, which takes its name from its minarets decorated with blue tiles, is one of the most important examples of Seljuk architecture with its stonework and tile decorations. The two-story structure and symmetrical layout of the madrasa reflect the architectural understanding of the period. Gök Medrese is a unique place to visit for those who want to get to know the art and culture of the Seljuk period.
Sivas Historical City Square
The Historical City Square, one of the indispensable starting points of a Sivas trip, offers its visitors both a historical journey and a lively atmosphere. Surrounded by Ottoman and Republic period structures, this square is like an open-air museum. Here, important historical structures of the city such as the Twin Minaret Madrasa, Şifaiye Madrasa, Buruciye Madrasa, Sivas Kale Mosque, Atatürk Congress Center, Historical Gendarmerie Building, Historical Governor's Office Building and Kale Hammam can be visited together. In addition, the restaurants serving traditional Anatolian cuisine, pleasant cafes and shops where you can shop around the square ensure that this place is always a lively and dynamic place. As a place where efforts are ongoing to include the Historical City Square in the UNESCO World Heritage List, it attracts both history enthusiasts and those looking for a cultural experience.
Shifaiye Madrasa
Şifaiye Madrasah, built in 1217 by the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan I. İzzeddin Keykavus, was used as a health center (hospital) and madrasah. The madrasah contains stonework and decorations that provide information about medical education and health services of the Seljuk period. Today, it is used as a museum that hosts various cultural events and exhibitions.
Historical Gendarmerie Building
Sivas is home to many structures that stand out with their historical texture, and one of them, the Sivas Historical Gendarmerie Building, is an impressive example of civil architecture from the late Ottoman Empire. Built in 1908 by Governor Reşat Reşit Pasha, this building has three floors, a rectangular L-plan, and spreads over a large area. The round-faced clock of the building, which stands out with its stonework, is still used functionally today, and this feature offers a great opportunity for photography enthusiasts. The Historical Gendarmerie Building, which becomes even more impressive with special lighting in the evening hours, creates a dazzling view together with the pool in front of it. Touring the building with its antique furniture and historical atmosphere in its interiors offers a very enjoyable experience. Today, the building, which serves as a social facility, is an important place to visit for both history and culture enthusiasts.
Tashan
Located in the city center of Sivas, Taşhan is a building that was used as a caravanserai during the Ottoman period. Built in the 19th century, this inn symbolizes Sivas' role as a trade center. Today, Taşhan is full of handicraft workshops, souvenir shops and cafes, and offers a nostalgic experience to its visitors while preserving its historical atmosphere.
Sivas Castle
Sivas Castle is a structure located at a dominant point of Sivas city center, dating back to the 1st century BC. The castle, Rome, It has undergone various restorations during the Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman periods. Today, the castle walls and bastions offer visitors a magnificent view of the city. The castle area is also a popular place for walking and photography.
Sivas is like an open-air museum with its history extending from the Seljuks to the Ottomans. These historical places offer an ideal opportunity for those who want to explore the cultural and historical heritage of Sivas, as well as those who want to see the architectural features and art of different periods up close. For travel lovers, you can find traces of the past everywhere you step in Sivas and embark on an unforgettable journey in this unique city.
Religious Buildings to Visit in Sivas
Castle Mosque
Kale Mosque is an important structure from the Ottoman period and was built in 1580. Located in the center of Sivas, this mosque is an elegant example of classical Ottoman architecture. The woodwork and calligraphy inside are worth seeing. The fountain and ablution fountain in the courtyard of the mosque also offer an interesting look at Ottoman water architecture.
Sivas Grand Mosque
Sivas Ulu Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Anatolia and was built in 1196 by Seljuk Sultan I. Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev. The mosque is particularly notable for its simple yet impressive architecture, stonework and wooden pulpit. Reflecting the historical texture of the city, this structure is also one of the important examples of Turkish-Islamic art. The 800-year-old pulpit inside the mosque represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship.
Shams-i Sivasi Square Mosque
One of the most striking symbols of Sivas, Şems-i Sivasi Square Mosque was built in 1564 by Koca Hasan Pasha, one of the viziers of Suleiman the Magnificent. Located close to the Sivas Ulu Mosque, this historical mosque was designed in classical Ottoman architecture and was built with a single dome and rectangular plan. Its main space is covered with a dome sitting on an octagonal drum and the windows of this dome are decorated with impressive mosaics. In addition, the mosque's elegant minaret and single balcony with a round body are also noteworthy. Its marble mihrab is adorned with hand-drawn ornaments and offers a work of art worth examining closely. Restored to its original state, Şems-i Sivasi Square Mosque is now one of the important stops of history and faith tours organized in Sivas. You can take a relaxing break under the porticoes in the peaceful courtyard of the mosque and enjoy discovering this historical structure together with the Sivas Ulu Mosque.
Parks and Natural Areas to Visit in Sivas
Sivas is a city that stands out with its natural beauty as well as its historical texture. The city's parks, recreation areas, lakes and natural areas offer many options for nature lovers and those who want to relax. For those who want to discover the peaceful atmosphere of Sivas and have an experience intertwined with nature, here are the most beautiful parks and natural areas to visit:
Bride Rock (With Song)
Located in the Şarkışla district, Gelin Kayası is a natural formation that has been the subject of local legends. It takes its name from its shape resembling a bride's silhouette. Visitors flock to the area to see and photograph this interesting rock formation. With its legends and mystical atmosphere, Gelin Kayası is one of the must-see natural areas in Sivas.
Gurun Gokpinar Lake
Located in the Gürün district, Gökpınar Lake is one of the hidden paradises of Sivas with its crystal clear water and surrounding natural beauty. The lake fascinates those who see it with its clear and turquoise color. It is an ideal destination especially for those who want to have a weekend getaway. Activities such as swimming, water sports and fishing can be done in the lake. You can also take nature walks on the walking trails around the lake and have a pleasant time in the picnic areas.
Lake Hafik
Hafik Lake, located in the Hafik district of Sivas, is a peaceful escape for those who want to be alone with nature. The lake area is a perfect area for fishing, picnicking or camping. Especially in the autumn and spring months, the lake view offers a unique experience to its visitors. The calm atmosphere of Hafik Lake is an ideal place for those who want to get away from the stressful city life.
Kangal Fish Hot Spring
Located in the Kangal district, Balıklı Kaplıca is a unique natural health center in the world. The spa is famous for the "doctor fish" used in the treatment of skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema. These fish are small fish living in thermal water and contribute to the treatment process by cleaning the dead skin on the skin. Kangal Balıklı Kaplıca is a point of intense interest for both local and foreign tourists. It also makes a significant contribution to health tourism with its healing water and fish.
Kangal Cermik Thermal Springs
Kangal Çermik Hot Springs is another hot spring region known for its natural thermal springs and thought to be good for various health problems. The temperature and mineral structure of the water is especially good for joint disorders. It is also used in the treatment of skin diseases. These hot springs are one of the natural areas that contribute greatly to health tourism in Sivas.
Karsiyaka Picnic Area
Karşıyaka Picnic Area is located close to Sivas city center and is a popular rest and recreation area for city dwellers. It offers an ideal environment for both families and nature lovers with its extensive pine forests, picnic areas and children's playgrounds. The area is also suitable for those who want to do sports with its walking and running paths. Karşıyaka is very lively especially on weekends and holidays and is one of the social meeting points of Sivas residents.
Kızılırmak River and Bird Sanctuary
The longest river in Turkey, the Kızılırmak River, is one of the most important natural beauties of the region as it passes through Sivas. Especially in spring and summer, you can walk along the Kızılırmak River and enjoy nature in the peaceful atmosphere of the river. Also, bird watching is very popular around the Kızılırmak River. The area known as Bird Paradise is a place where many local and migratory bird species stay. It is an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Paşabahçe Picnic Area
Located just 5 km from Sivas city centre, the Paşabahçe Picnic Area is a perfect choice for those who want to spend time alone with nature. It appeals to all age groups with its wide green areas, walking paths, picnic areas, children's playgrounds and bicycle tracks. Offering a safe environment for families, the picnic area also hosts various events and festivals organised during the summer months. Here you can enjoy nature and spend pleasant time with your loved ones.
Cold Cermik Thermal Springs
Located in the northwest of Sivas, Soğuk Çermik Thermal Springs are famous for their healing waters. These thermal springs, which are effective in the treatment of rheumatism, skin diseases and some musculoskeletal disorders, are also suitable for a peaceful holiday. Thermal hotels and accommodation facilities offer visitors a comfortable stay. It is a recommended spot for tourists coming to Sivas to visit for both rest and treatment purposes.
Lake Tödürge
Tödürge Lake, located in the Zara district, is one of the important natural beauties of Sivas. The lake offers a suitable environment for both fishing and water sports. Its surroundings are also an ideal area for campers and nature walkers. Especially in the summer months, events and festivals organized on the shores of the lake make the region even more lively. You can walk around the lake, enjoy nature and interact with the locals to get to know the culture of the region more closely.
Yildiz Mountain Winter Sports Center
Yıldız Mountain Winter Sports Center is an ideal destination for ski and snowboard enthusiasts in the winter months. Located 58 km from Sivas city center, this center has tracks suitable for both amateur and professional athletes. The facility is located on Yıldız Mountain, one of the highest mountains in Sivas with an altitude of 2.552 meters, and offers its visitors a fascinating snow view. The center also offers accommodation and restaurant facilities, allowing visitors to both do sports and relax.
Sivas attracts attention with its natural beauty as well as its rich history. The city offers its visitors the opportunity to be alone with nature with its wide green areas, peaceful lakes, healing hot springs and magnificent mountain views. For travel lovers, Sivas' natural areas offer countless options for both relaxation and adventurous activities. Therefore, a trip to Sivas will be full of not only historical discoveries but also peaceful memories in the lap of nature.
Museums to Visit in Sivas
Sivas also showcases its rich history and cultural heritage with its museums. The museums in the city offer many opportunities for those who want to explore local history and get to know Turkey's cultural riches more closely. Here are the most important museums to visit in Sivas:
Asik Veysel Museum
The Aşık Veysel Museum, located in the Sivrialan Village of the Şarkışla district of Sivas, was established to introduce the life and works of the famous folk poet Aşık Veysel Şatıroğlu. The museum exhibits the bağlama used by Aşık Veysel, his personal belongings, manuscripts, letters and photographs. In addition, sections from the poet's life and documents describing his art are also included in the museum. For those interested in Turkish folk music and poetry, this museum offers the opportunity to get to know Aşık Veysel's life and art up close.
Ataturk and Congress Museum
The Atatürk and Congress Museum is located in the historical building where the Sivas Congress was held in 1919. This building has a very important place in the establishment of the Republic of Turkey. The Sivas Congress, which took place on September 4, 1919 with the participation of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and his comrades, was one of the turning points of the national struggle. The museum is full of documents from the congress, Atatürk's personal belongings, newspapers of the period and photographs. It also houses many artifacts from the War of Independence. For history enthusiasts and those interested in the Republic period, this museum offers both an educational and inspiring experience.
Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital Museum
The Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, served as both a mosque and a medical center. This building complex was built in 1228-1229 during the Mengücek Principality and is of great architectural and historical importance. The museum section inside the building exhibits many artifacts such as medical instruments, manuscripts and stone ornaments from the period. This building, which fascinates its visitors with its architectural details and historical past, is one of the most important cultural heritages of Sivas.
Kangal Dog Museum
The Kangal Dog Museum, where the famous Kangal dogs of Sivas are introduced, is located in the Kangal district. Kangal dogs are one of the most well-known and valuable shepherd dogs of Turkey, and this museum provides information about the history, characteristics and breeding processes of these dogs. The museum offers comprehensive information to its visitors with photos, videos and documents of Kangal dogs. It is an interesting place to visit for dog lovers and animal lovers.
Sivas Archaeology Museum
Sivas Archaeology Museum is one of the most important museums where artifacts from the prehistoric and historical periods of the city and its surroundings are exhibited. The museum, which opened to visitors in 2009, contains many findings from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age and Roman periods. The sculptures, mosaics, grave steles and ceramics exhibited in the museum shed light on the thousands of years of history of the region. In addition, stone artifacts from the Hittite period and various objects from ancient Sivas are among the most striking collections of the museum. This museum, which is a must-see for archaeology enthusiasts, is an ideal stop for those who want to witness the ancient history of Sivas.
Sivas Ethnography Museum (Congress and Ethnography Museum)
Sivas Ethnography Museum is located in a section of the Atatürk and Congress Museum and is housed in a historical building built in 1892. The museum exhibits works reflecting the daily life, traditions and customs, handicrafts and clothing of the people of Sivas and its surroundings. Ethnographic works such as weapons, clothing, carpets, rugs, kitchenware and agricultural tools from the Ottoman period make up the museum's collection. In this museum, visitors have the opportunity to get to know the cultural diversity of Sivas and the people's lifestyle from the past to the present.
Sivas City Museum
Sivas City Museum is a museum established to introduce the city's history, cultural structure and social life. The museum exhibits photographs, maps, documents and objects related to daily life from Sivas' past. This museum, which reveals the city's development in industry, agriculture, trade, art and craft, is an ideal place to understand Sivas' local identity and historical processes. In addition, temporary exhibitions and cultural events organized in the museum present the city's living cultural heritage to visitors.
Sivas Şifaiye Madrasa and Medical History Museum
Built in 1217 by the Anatolian Seljuk Sultan I. Izzeddin Keykavus, the Şifaiye Madrasah was initially used as a sanatorium (health center). Today, this historical structure serves as the Museum of Medical History. The museum displays various medical instruments, manuscripts and materials related to health practices that demonstrate the medical knowledge and practices of the Seljuk period. The architecture of the Şifaiye Madrasah and the stone decorations in its courtyard also attract the attention of visitors. For those interested in medical and health history, this museum is a must-see in Sivas.
Zara City Museum
Located in the Zara district of Sivas, the Zara City Museum introduces visitors to the cultural and historical heritage of the region. The museum exhibits many ethnographic objects, such as traditional Zara handicrafts, local clothing, kitchenware and agricultural tools. The museum also contains documents and photographs that provide information about local history. The Zara City Museum is an ideal place to visit for those who want to learn about the local culture and history of the region.
Sivas, as a city full of historical and cultural heritage, offers its visitors a rich museum experience. Reflecting the city's history, art, traditions and cultural heritage, these museums offer a perfect opportunity to delve into the depths of Sivas and understand the spirit of this unique geography. For history, art and culture enthusiasts, the museums in Sivas open the doors to an unforgettable journey. These museums not only provide information about the city's past, but also provide visitors with the opportunity to discover Sivas's current identity and cultural diversity.
Sivas offers many places to explore for travelers with its historical structures, natural beauties and cultural richness. To feel the unique atmosphere of Sivas and to collect unforgettable memories, be sure to visit the historical structures, parks, museums and churches in this city. While discovering these beauties, do not forget to meet the hospitable people and rich cuisine of Sivas. Sivas is a unique destination that should be on every traveler's route!
Sivas offers many beauties to be discovered with its historical, cultural and natural riches. If you want to learn more about places to visit in Sivas, Sivas Travel Guide You can review our article titled. This guide offers a comprehensive road map for exploring the city with activities you can do in Sivas, transportation tips and important information.