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About Malatya Province

Türkiye Turizm Tanıtım ve Geliştirme Ajansı (TGA). (2025). Malatya. GoTürkiye. https://malatya.goturkiye.com/

Malatya: A Crossroads of Civilizations

Malatya is one of the most significant crossroads in our country, bringing together civilizations from past to present. Thanks to this unique characteristic, Malatya has always been a center of attention and an intriguing destination throughout history.

The Intersection of Ancient Routes

Located at the crossroads of Anatolia and the Middle East since antiquity, Malatya stands out with its strategic position. One of the oldest routes in the East extends from Malatya through Sivas to Erzurum and then to the Caucasus. Another historically important route heads southeast through Malatya and Diyarbakır toward Mesopotamia. Additionally, a southern route through the mountains connects Urfa to Malatya via Adıyaman.

These roads, actively used even during the Hittite period, were traveled by Hittite kings in their campaigns against other Anatolian states. Historical sources record that King Šuppiluliuma of the Hittites used this route to reach the lower Euphrates, crossing the river near Malatya. The Akkadian king Sargon also frequently used these routes during his military campaigns. Trade and cultural exchange between Mesopotamia and Anatolia via these roads further enhanced Malatya’s historical and cultural value.

Must-See Places in Malatya!

Malatya is a city that will captivate you with its deep-rooted history, unique natural beauty, and rich culture. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:

A Journey Through History

  • Old Malatya Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami): A rare example of Great Seljuk architecture, this mosque dazzles with its open courtyard and iwan plan, its dome over the mihrab, and its intricate glazed brick and tile work.
  • Old Malatya City Walls: These historical walls, whose construction began during the reign of Roman Emperor Titus and were finalized under Emperor Justinian, stand as a testament to Malatya’s strategic importance in antiquity.
  • Arslantepe Open-Air Museum: Listed on UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites, the Arslantepe Mound has seen uninterrupted settlement from around 5000 BC to the 11th century AD and is home to the world’s oldest known adobe palace—an extraordinary archaeological site.
  • Malatya Archaeological Museum: Showcasing artifacts from the Neolithic era through the Ottoman period, this museum features, among other treasures, the world’s oldest known swords—a truly fascinating display.
  • Beşkonaklar Ethnography Museum: Set in traditional Malatya houses, this museum reflects the city’s rich ethnographic heritage through traditional clothing, kitchenware, jewelry, and household items.

Peaceful Nature Retreats

  • Kernek Square and Canal Walk (Kanalboyu): Immortalized in folk songs, the soothing sounds of Kernek Square’s waterfall, the scenic walking paths along the canal, elegant cafés, famous ice cream shops, and inviting promenades offer a relaxing break in the heart of the city.
  • Levent Valley: With geological formations dating back approximately 65 million years, this valley is considered one of the most unique natural areas in the world. It also contains remnants from the Neolithic period, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
  • Somuncu Baba Complex: Located within the Tohma Canyon, this complex includes the tomb, mosque, museum, and sacred fish pond of Somuncu Baba, making it one of Türkiye’s significant spiritual centers. Its serene atmosphere offers visitors a deeply peaceful experience.

Local Flavors and Handcraft Traditions

  • Apricot and Şire Bazaar: When it comes to Malatya apricots are the first thing that come to mind!At the Şire Bazaar, you can sample fresh and dried apricots as well as unique delicacies such as apricot delight, apricot sausage, and apricot döner. You’ll also find regional products like molasses, walnuts, and honey.
  • Coppersmiths’ Bazaar (Bakırcılar Çarşısı): Located in the city center, this authentic bazaar is not only a place to purchase souvenirs, but also a living museum where you can watch master craftsmen shape copper by hand and keep this traditional art alive.

Bibliography

  1. Malatya Valiliği. (2025, Mayıs 24). Şehrimiz. http://www.malatya.gov.tr/sehrimiz adresinden erişildi.
  2. Malatya İl Kültür ve Turizm Müdürlüğü. (n.d.). Malatya İl Kültür ve Turizm Müdürlüğü. T.C. Kültür ve Turizm Bakanlığı. https://malatya.ktb.gov.tr/ adresinden erişildi.
  3. Türkiye Turizm Tanıtım ve Geliştirme Ajansı (TGA). (n.d.). Malatya. GoTürkiye. https://malatya.goturkiye.com/ adresinden erişildi.