Ancient Sites Of Erzurum

Erzurum Castle
Located on a hill in the city center, Erzurum Castle is one of the city’s most prominent historical landmarks. Although its original construction date is unknown, it is believed to have been built during the Urartian period and later restored by the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. The inner keep, known as the Clock Tower, offers panoramic views of Erzurum and reflects the city’s strategic military importance throughout history.

Çifte Minareli Madrasa
Dating back to the 13th century, the Çifte Minareli Madrasa is a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture and one of Erzurum’s most iconic structures. Its monumental portal and twin minarets adorned with geometric and floral motifs symbolize the artistic and cultural richness of the Seljuk period.

Yakutiye Madrasa
Built in 1310 during the Ilkhanid period, Yakutiye Madrasa served as an important educational center. Today, it functions as a museum showcasing ethnographic and archaeological artifacts, while preserving its impressive stone carvings and monumental entrance.

Üç Kümbetler (Three Mausoleums)
The Three Mausoleums, located near Erzurum Castle, date to the 12th and 13th centuries. These Seljuk tombs are notable for their cylindrical and polygonal forms, decorative stonework, and conical roofs, representing the funerary architecture of medieval Anatolia.

Öşvank (Oshki) Monastery
Situated in the Çamlıyamaç (historical Tayk) region, the Öşvank Monastery dates back to the 10th century and represents one of the finest examples of medieval Georgian architecture. Although located near the modern Turkish-Georgian border, it is closely associated with Erzurum’s historical and cultural landscape.

Narman Fairy Chimneys

Located in the Narman district, these naturally formed red-colored rock formations are known as the Narman Fairy Chimneys. While primarily a natural site, they are often included in cultural itineraries due to their unique geological and scenic value.

Aziziye (Nene Hatun) Fortifications
The Aziziye Fortifications played a crucial role during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878. Today, they stand as symbols of Erzurum’s heroic resistance and national memory, especially associated with the legendary figure Nene Hatun.

Historic Erzurum Houses and City Walls
Remnants of city walls, traditional stone houses, bridges, and caravanserais reflect Erzurum’s historical role as a key city on the Silk Road, connecting Anatolia with Central Asia and the Caucasus.