About Adiyaman
Adıyaman is a city in southeastern Turkey, the capital of the Adıyaman Province. It’s located along the upper reaches of the Euphrates River. Here are some key highlights about Adıyaman:
History: Adıyaman has been inhabited since the ancient times. It was part of various empires including the Hittite, Persian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. It was named Hisn-Mansur in the Middle Ages. The current name, Adıyaman, was given in the 1920s during the Turkish Republic.
Nemrut Dağı: One of the most notable sites near Adıyaman is Mount Nemrut, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s home to the tomb sanctuary of Antiochus I of Commagene, with huge statues of him and various gods. The site is known for its stone heads and the scenic views of the sunrise and sunset.
Atatürk Dam: The Atatürk Dam, one of the largest dams in the world, is located in the province of Adıyaman. The dam was built as part of the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP) and has played a major role in the development of the region.
Cuisine: Adıyaman is known for its local cuisine, featuring dishes such as içli köfte (meatballs with a bulgur wheat shell), melemen (a dish made with eggs, tomato, and peppers), and lahmacun (a thin bread topped with minced meat and vegetables).
Climate: The climate of Adıyaman is a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
How to get to Adiyaman
Adıyaman, located in southeastern Turkey, is accessible by air, road, and rail:
By Air: Adıyaman Airport (ADF) is located close to the city center and offers flights to and from several major cities in Turkey including Istanbul and Ankara. International travelers can first fly to Istanbul and then take a domestic flight to Adıyaman.
By Road: Adıyaman is well-connected by the Turkish highway system. It can be reached by car or bus from major cities such as Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir. There are several bus companies that operate long-distance routes across the country.
By Rail: While Adıyaman does not have a railway station of its own, the nearby city of Malatya is well-connected by rail to other parts of Turkey. From Malatya, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach Adıyaman.
What to pack for Adiyaman
The climate in Adıyaman, Turkey, is hot in the summers and cold and rainy in the winters. Here’s a general guide on what to pack:
Spring (March – May) and Autumn (September – November):
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts
Pants and shorts
Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking (if you plan to visit Mount Nemrut or other historical sites)
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
Umbrella or raincoat, as these seasons can have occasional rain
Summer (June – August):
Lightweight and light-colored clothing, as it can get quite hot
Hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen
Comfortable shoes for walking
Swimsuits if you’re planning to swim
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Winter (December – February):
Warm clothing, including a winter coat, sweaters, and layers
Scarves, hats, gloves, and warm socks
Waterproof shoes or boots for rainy days
Umbrella or raincoat
Where to stay in Adiyaman?
Adıyaman, Turkey has a variety of accommodation options to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences. Some of the notable options include:
White Star Hotel: A four-star hotel located in the center of Adiyaman offering free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and room service.
Arsames Hotel: Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.
Bozdogan Hotel: A budget-friendly option offering simple but comfortable rooms.
Hotel Unal: A relatively affordable hotel with a good location, offering amenities like free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
What type of climate does Adiyaman have?
Adıyaman, Turkey, is characterized by a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, known as a Csa climate in the Köppen climate classification. This means the city experiences hot, dry summers and mild to cool, wet winters.
During the summer months, from June to September, temperatures can soar up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) but typically average around 30-35 degrees Celsius (86-95 degrees Fahrenheit). Rainfall during this period is scarce.
Winter, on the other hand, runs from December to February, with temperatures dropping to an average of 5-10 degrees Celsius (41-50 degrees Fahrenheit). The winter months also bring the majority of the annual rainfall, although it is not typically excessive.
The transitional seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November) bring moderate temperatures and reduced rainfall, making them popular times for tourism.
When is the best time to visit Adiyaman?
The best time to visit Adiyaman, like many Mediterranean climates, is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is usually pleasant, with mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing and exploration.
Spring is particularly beautiful as the landscape is green and vibrant from the winter rains. The fall also offers comfortable travel conditions, and the summer crowds have usually thinned out by this time.
The summer months (July and August) can be extremely hot, often reaching temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit), which might be uncomfortable for some, especially when doing outdoor activities like visiting the Mount Nemrut.
The history of Adiyaman
The history of Adiyaman, a city in southeastern Turkey, dates back thousands of years. It has been home to many civilizations throughout history due to its strategic location between major trade routes.
Adiyaman was originally named Perre, an important city of the ancient kingdom of Commagene. The Commagene Kingdom was established in the 2nd century BC and existed until it became part of the Roman Empire in 72 AD. The most notable site from the Commagene period is Mount Nemrut, where massive statues and a tomb built by King Antiochus I of Commagene are found.
When the Romans conquered the region, it became part of the Roman province of Syria. Later, during the Byzantine period, it was part of the Anatolic Theme.
In the 7th century, the region fell under Arab rule during the Muslim conquests. The name Adiyaman is derived from the Arabic “adiyatu’l-man”, meaning “the place of the fair”.
The Seljuks gained control in the 11th century, followed by the Crusaders in the late 11th to early 12th century. Then the area changed hands among various Turkic dynasties and Mongols until it was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century.
After the fall of the Ottoman Empire and the establishment of modern Turkey, Adiyaman remained a small town until the 1950s. The construction of the Atatürk Dam on the Euphrates in the 1980s resulted in a significant population increase due to the many workers settling in the city.
The region is rich in historical and archaeological sites, with Mount Nemrut being the most significant, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 for its unique and colossal statue-tombs.
Famous firsts and greatest of Adiyaman
Adıyaman is not particularly known for historical “firsts” but rather it is famed for a number of key cultural and historical highlights:
Mount Nemrut: The most famous site in Adıyaman is Mount Nemrut, where King Antiochus I Theos of Commagene built a tomb-sanctuary flanked by huge statues (8–9 m or 26–30 ft high) of himself, two lions, two eagles, and various Greek, Armenian, and Iranian gods, such as Hercules-Vahagn, Zeus-Aramazd or Oromasdes (associated with the Iranian god Ahura Mazda), Tyche, and Apollo-Mithras. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Commagene Kingdom: The ancient kingdom of Commagene, with its capital at Samosata (modern Samsat, near the Euphrates), left a lasting legacy with its art and culture, blending Persian, Greek, and local traditions.
Adıyaman Museum: This museum houses a rich collection of artifacts from the Commagene era, the Roman period, and other historical periods, with finds from ongoing excavations in the region.
Cendere Bridge: Built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD, it’s one of the oldest functioning bridges in the world. It was constructed as a tribute to the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus.
Atatürk Dam: It’s one of the largest dams in the world and it’s located in the Adıyaman province. It’s a part of the Southeastern Anatolia Project, one of the largest and most comprehensive sustainable development projects in the world, aiming to improve the economy and living standards in the region.
Oil Production: Adıyaman is known for its oil production and is home to an important oil refinery.
Historical places of Adiyaman
Adıyaman, in southeastern Turkey, is a region rich in historical places. Some of the most notable include:
Mount Nemrut: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for the huge statues and the tomb-sanctuary of King Antiochus I Theos of Commagene, dating from the 1st century B.C.
Arsemia: This ancient city was once the summer capital of the Commagene Kingdom. Here you can find ruins, old city walls, and the Yeni Kale (New Castle) which is perched on top of a hill and offers panoramic views of the region.
Cendere Bridge: This Roman bridge, also known as the Severan Bridge, is one of the oldest still in use. It spans the Kahta Creek and was constructed in the 2nd century A.D.
Karakuş Tumulus: This funerary monument built by the Commagene Kingdom has a number of statues and a column with an eagle on top. It’s thought to be the burial site of the females of the royal family.
Old Kahta Castle: This castle offers stunning views over the region. It’s thought to date back to the Commagene Kingdom.
Adıyaman Museum: This museum houses many artifacts from the region’s long history, with a particular focus on the Commagene period.
Pirin Caves: These caves, also known as Pirin Ruins, were used by early Christians as a hiding place from Roman soldiers. Today, you can explore the cave systems and see the remains of churches, living quarters, and tombs.
Perre Ancient City: Known as one of the five largest cities of the Commagene Kingdom, the ancient city of Perre contains around 200 cave tombs and a Roman bath complex.
Who is the most famous people in the history of Adiyaman?
Adıyaman, a city steeped in history dating back to the Hittite period, is not particularly known for any single famous historical person. However, the region was once part of the Kingdom of Commagene and its most famous ruler was King Antiochus I Theos (69–34 BC). His notable achievement is the construction of the monumental tomb-sanctuary on Mount Nemrut, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. King Antiochus I is not exactly a native of what is now the modern city of Adıyaman but he is a significant historical figure connected to the region.
The 15 best things to do in Adiyaman
Here are the top 15 things to do in Adiyaman:
- Visit Mount Nemrut: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its enormous stone heads and statues that were built by the ancient kingdom of Commagene.
- Explore the Adiyaman Museum: The museum hosts many artifacts from the region’s rich history.
- Walk through the Old Town: Experience local life, see historic architecture, and sample local cuisine.
- Visit the Severan Bridge: This ancient Roman bridge is still in use today, providing a link to the area’s rich past.
- Explore Pirin Caves: These fascinating caves have historical significance and offer an adventurous activity.
- Visit Arsemia Ancient City: This ancient city was once the summer capital of the Kingdom of Commagene.
- See the Karakus Tumulus: This burial site is one of the significant remnants of the Kingdom of Commagene.
- Visit the Yenipinar Village: This charming village is worth a visit for a taste of rural Turkish life.
- Explore the Cendere Bridge: Another ancient Roman bridge offering stunning views of the surrounding nature.
- Hike in the Kahta Creek National Park: The park is known for its beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife.
- Visit the Ataturk Dam: As one of the largest dams in Turkey, it’s a marvel of modern engineering.
- Enjoy local cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local dishes like çiğ köfte and Adıyaman tava.
- Visit the Gerger Castle: Located in the Gerger district, this historical fortress offers a panoramic view of the region.
- See the Sofraz Tumulus: Another burial mound from the Kingdom of Commagene era.
- Visit Besni Grape Houses (Üzüm Evleri): Unique houses in the Besni district used for grape drying, now a cultural attraction.
What is the best places to visit in Adiyaman?
Some of the best places to visit in Adiyaman include:
Mount Nemrut: This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its massive stone statues and heads that date back to the 1st century BC. The site offers stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Adiyaman Museum: The museum is home to various historical artifacts from the region, and it’s a great place to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.
Severan Bridge (Cendere Köprüsü): This is one of the best-preserved Roman bridges in the world. It’s an architectural marvel that’s still in use today.
Arsemia Ancient City: Once the summer capital of the Commagene Kingdom, this city is home to numerous ruins and offers a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
Karakus Tumulus: This funerary monument from the Kingdom of Commagene is marked by a series of stone columns and statues.
Perre Ancient City: This ancient city, also known as Perrhe, features numerous rock tombs and a necropolis. It’s a fascinating site for history enthusiasts.
Ataturk Dam: One of the largest dams in the world, it’s an engineering marvel and is also used for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation.
Old Town Adiyaman: Wander the streets of the old town to experience local life, shop in traditional markets, and taste local cuisine.
Kahta Castle: This castle offers a panoramic view of the surrounding region. The climb to the castle is also a unique experience.
Sofraz Tumulus: An ancient burial mound offering insights into the funerary practices of the past civilizations.
The best Adiyaman Tours
Here are some of the best tours you can consider:
Mount Nemrut Sunrise or Sunset Tours: These are very popular and take you to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mount Nemrut to see the ancient statues as the sun rises or sets. These tours usually also include stops at other nearby historical sites like the Severan Bridge and the Karakus Tumulus.
Adiyaman City Tours: These tours will take you around the city of Adiyaman, highlighting important landmarks, the city center, markets, and local neighborhoods.
Arsemia and Perre Ancient City Tours: These tours focus on the ancient cities in the region, providing detailed historical and architectural insights.
Ataturk Dam and Euphrates River Tours: Some tours include a visit to the Ataturk Dam, one of the largest dams in the world, with opportunities for boat tours on the Euphrates River.
Places to visit in Adiyaman in winter
Winter in Adiyaman can be quite cold, but it also offers a unique perspective on the region’s attractions, especially if you enjoy quieter, less crowded visits. Here are some places to consider visiting during winter:
Mount Nemrut: Even in winter, the statues and monuments atop Mount Nemrut can be visited. Snowfall can make the scenery incredibly beautiful, but it’s essential to check the local weather and road conditions as the roads can be challenging.
Adiyaman Museum: This local museum is home to numerous artifacts from the surrounding area, providing an in-depth look at the region’s history and cultures.
Perre Ancient City: Explore the ancient city of Perre, famous for its tombs carved into the cliffs. It’s less crowded during winter and the cooler weather makes exploring more comfortable.
Adiyaman City Center: Walking around the city center, exploring local markets and eateries can be a unique experience. It’s a great opportunity to taste local winter delicacies and experience the local culture.
Cendere Bridge and Karakus Tumulus: These are two other historical sites that are usually accessible during winter.
Ataturk Dam: The dam, one of the world’s largest, can be visited in the winter, offering stark, beautiful views.
Places to visit in Adiyaman in summer
Here are some must-visit places in Adıyaman during the summer:
Mount Nemrut: This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the ancient tombs and giant statues of King Antiochus I Theos of Commagene. The peak of Mount Nemrut offers an unforgettable sunrise and sunset view. The summer months are a perfect time for this visit as the paths are clear and the weather is pleasant at the top.
Cendere Bridge: Also known as the Roman Bridge, the Cendere Bridge is one of the oldest standing bridges in the world. In summer, you can fully appreciate its architectural beauty without the hindrance of winter weather.
Ataturk Dam: The third largest dam in the world is an impressive sight to see, especially in the summer when water levels are high.
Adıyaman Museum: If you want to escape the heat for a few hours, you can visit the Adıyaman Museum, which houses artifacts from various archaeological sites in the region.
Severan Bridge: This Roman bridge located near the ancient city of Arsameia is another excellent summer visit. It’s an architectural marvel spanning the Kahta creek.
Old Adıyaman Houses: Take a stroll around the old part of the city to see traditional houses and enjoy local tea gardens.
Perre Ancient City: An underground city with a necropolis, Perre is fascinating to explore, but it’s recommended to go early or later in the day during the summer to avoid the heat.
Karakus Tumulus: It is a burial mound and it’s one of the important sites in Adiyaman. Make sure to visit early in the morning or late afternoon during the summer to avoid the peak sun.
Adiyaman’s nightlife
While Adiyaman is more of a historical and cultural destination in Turkey, it still offers some options for those seeking nightlife activities. The city is not renowned for its nightlife compared to other major Turkish cities like Istanbul or Antalya, but you can still find enjoyable ways to spend your evening hours.
Here are a few options:
Local Restaurants and Cafes: Many local restaurants and cafes stay open until late, providing an opportunity to try regional cuisine or have a relaxing cup of Turkish tea or coffee.
Night Bazaars: In some parts of Adiyaman, night bazaars are arranged where you can indulge in some late-night shopping or snack on local street food.
Cultural Shows: Occasionally, local cultural or musical performances are arranged in the city center, providing an opportunity to enjoy traditional Turkish music and dance.
Outdoor Cinema: During the summer, open-air film screenings are sometimes held in public parks or squares.
Hotel Bars: If you are staying in a larger hotel, they might have their own bar which could stay open late, offering an opportunity for a relaxed evening drink.
Walks: The city is safe to walk around in the evening, offering you a chance to see the beautiful illuminated historical sites.
What is the traditional food of Adiyaman?
Here are some local delicacies you should sample:
Çiğ Köfte: One of the most famous dishes from this region, Çiğ köfte is a raw meatball dish traditionally made from bulgur, onions, and raw ground meat. Nowadays, due to health regulations, the “raw” version is generally served as a vegetarian or vegan dish in which meat is replaced by fine bulgur and tomato paste.
Kebabs: Adiyaman is known for its delicious kebabs. You should definitely try Adiyaman’s version of the Turkish staple. One specific type to try is the “Adiyaman Kebab” which is prepared with specially marinated meat.
Lahmacun: Often referred to as Turkish Pizza, Lahmacun is a thin piece of dough topped with minced meat, vegetables, herbs, and spices, then baked.
Baklava: While baklava is popular throughout Turkey, the ones in Adiyaman are worth trying, with their crispy filo pastry layers, sweet syrup, and rich nut fillings.
Gözleme: A traditional Turkish flatbread that’s filled with various fillings like cheese, spinach, or minced meat and then cooked on a griddle.
Ayran: This is a traditional Turkish yogurt drink that goes very well with the local dishes. It’s both refreshing and healthy, especially during hot summer months.
The best restaurants in Adiyaman
Han Cafe & Restaurant: Offering a mix of traditional Turkish food and international cuisine, Han Cafe & Restaurant is a well-rated establishment in Adıyaman. It has a nice ambiance and an extensive menu.
Kervan Ocakbaşı: This is an excellent place to experience traditional Turkish kebabs and grilled dishes. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
Adiyaman Yöresel Mutfak: As the name suggests, this restaurant offers a taste of local cuisine in a traditional setting. It’s a great place to try çiğ köfte and other local dishes.
Mado: While primarily known as a chain dessert place, Mado also serves a variety of meals and snacks. It’s particularly loved for its traditional Turkish ice cream and baklava.
Seyr-i Ciger: This place specializes in lamb liver dishes, a popular delicacy in Adıyaman. It’s a must-visit for meat lovers.
Güneş Sofrası: This is a traditional Turkish restaurant that offers a variety of meat dishes, including succulent kebabs.
What is the most popular gift in Adiyaman?
Local Handicrafts: Adiyaman, like many regions in Turkey, has a tradition of producing beautiful handmade items. These might include pottery, ceramics, handwoven textiles, and intricate jewelry.
Traditional Foods: Local delicacies like Turkish delight (lokum), dried fruits, nuts, spices, and honey are popular gifts to take back home. Adiyaman is particularly known for its pistachios.
Carpets and Rugs: Turkey is world-renowned for its hand-woven carpets and rugs. These are not only functional but also carry deep cultural significance and make for a special gift or souvenir.
Hand-painted Ceramics: Ceramics, including hand-painted plates, bowls, and vases, can be a lovely gift. These items often display traditional Turkish designs and motifs.
Olive Oil and Olive Oil Products: Turkey is one of the top olive oil-producing countries in the world. High-quality olive oil, soaps, and other olive-based products can be excellent gifts.
Traditional Clothes: Traditional clothes and accessories like scarves and shawls can also make memorable gifts. These often feature unique patterns and are crafted with high-quality fabrics.