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Erzurum

Erzurum, Erzurum, Turkey

Journey to the Anatolian Highlands: Discover Erzurum Perched high on the Anatolian plateau, Erzurum is a city where history echoes through ancient stone and adventure awaits amidst snow-capped peaks. More than just a des…

#Historic city#Winter sports#Eastern Turkey#Cultural heritage#Mountains

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Erzurum.

Top Hotels in Erzurum

Top Flights to Erzurum

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Erzurum.

Tours

Explore the Historic Citadel of Erzurum

Visit the ancient fortress offering panoramic views of the city and insights into its historical significance.

Shopping

Shopping at Erzurum Mall

A modern shopping center with a wide range of international and local brands.

Outdoor

Palandöken Ski Center Experience

Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at one of the best ski resorts in Turkey.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Erzurum.

Currency

₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira

Population

As of the most recent estimates, the approximate population of Erzurum, Turkey is around 760,000.

Languages

Turkish, Kurdish, Azerbaijani

Average weather

Erzurum

Jan

-3°-12°

Feb

-1°-10°

Mar

3°-6°

Apr

11°0°

May

16°4°

Jun

21°8°

Jul

26°11°

Aug

26°11°

Sep

21°7°

Oct

14°2°

Nov

6°-3°

Dec

-1°-9°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Erzurum.

What people love

Erzurum is a city located in eastern Turkey, known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some pros of traveling to Erzurum:

Historical Sites: Erzurum is home to many historical sites dating back to various periods, including the Seljuk and Ottoman empires. Some notable landmarks include the Erzurum Castle, Twin Minaret Madrasa, and Yakutiye Madrasa.
Winter Sports: Erzurum is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with several ski resorts in the area. Palandöken Mountain is particularly renowned for its challenging slopes and excellent snow conditions.
Local Cuisine: Erzurum offers a unique culinary experience, with dishes influenced by both Turkish and Kurdish cuisines. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties such as kadayif dolma, cag kebab, and ayran.
Natural Beauty: The surrounding landscape of Erzurum is characterized by stunning mountains, valleys, and lakes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, trekking, and camping in the region.
Cultural Heritage: Erzurum has a rich cultural heritage, with a diverse population comprising Turks, Kurds, and other ethnic groups. Visitors can explore traditional crafts, music, and dance performances that showcase the city's cultural diversity.

Overall, Erzurum offers a mix of historical, cultural, and outdoor attractions that make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking an authentic Turkish experience.

What to know

Erzurum, located in eastern Turkey, offers unique cultural experiences and beautiful natural landscapes. However, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Erzurum:

Weather: Erzurum experiences very cold winters with heavy snowfall and low temperatures. This may not be ideal for travelers who are not accustomed to such harsh weather conditions.
Altitude: Erzurum is situated at a high altitude, which may cause altitude sickness or breathing difficulties for some individuals, especially those not used to high altitudes.
Limited tourist infrastructure: Erzurum is not as developed for tourism compared to other popular destinations in Turkey. This may result in limited accommodation options, dining choices, and transportation services.
Language barrier: English may not be widely spoken in Erzurum, so communication with locals could be challenging for travelers who do not speak Turkish.
Remote location: Erzurum is located far from major cities and transportation hubs, making it less accessible for some travelers. Getting to and from Erzurum may require longer travel times and connections.

Overall, while Erzurum has its charms and attractions, travelers should be prepared for the potential challenges that come with visiting this region in Turkey.

Erzurum is a city with a rich historical background located in eastern Turkey. It has been an important cultural and strategic center throughout various periods, owing to its location on trade routes and its strategic position on the Anatolian plateau.

Ancient and Medieval History

Urartians and Early Inhabitants: The region was originally inhabited by the Urartians around the 9th century BCE. It was part of several ancient empires, including the Median and Achaemenid empires.
Roman and Byzantine Era: Known as Theodosiopolis in the Roman and Byzantine periods, Erzurum was an important city in the Byzantine Empire. It was named after Emperor Theodosius I.
Armenian Connection: In the medieval period, Erzurum was part of the Armenian Kingdom and served as a significant cultural and religious center.
Seljuk and Ottoman Periods: The city came under the control of the Seljuk Turks in the 11th century, then later the Mongols, and eventually became part of the Ottoman Empire in the early 16th century.

Ottoman Era

Strategic Importance: Under Ottoman rule, Erzurum served as a key military post and was a vital regional administrative center. It was fortified due to its proximity to the Russian Empire and the Persian Empire.
19th Century Conflicts: The city was a focal point during the Russo-Turkish Wars in the 19th century and changed hands several times between the Ottomans and Russians.

20th Century

World War I: Erzurum was a significant site during World War I, especially during the Caucasus Campaign. The Battle of Erzurum in 1916 was a major conflict where Russian forces captured the city from the Ottomans.
Turkish War of Independence: The city played a crucial role in the Turkish War of Independence. The Erzurum Congress, held in July 1919, was a pivotal moment in the formation of modern Turkey, where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and other leaders planned the resistance against occupying forces and laid the groundwork for the establishment of the Republic of Turkey.
Modern Developments: Post-republic era, the city has developed into a major urban center in eastern Turkey, known for its educational institutions, notably Atatürk University, and as a hub for winter sports.

Significant Landmarks

Erzurum Castle: Dating back to Byzantine times, the castle is a prominent historical site in the city.
Yakutiye Medrese: Built in 1310, this Seljuk-era madrasa is a symbol of the city's Islamic heritage and architectural beauty.
Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque): A historic mosque dating back to the 12th century, reflecting the Seljuk architecture.
Çifte Minareli Medrese (Double Minaret Madrasa): Another iconic Seljuk monument, built in the late 13th century, known for its twin minarets and elaborate stone carvings.

Cultural and Economic Importance

Winter Sports: Erzurum hosted the 2011 Winter Universiade and is known for its ski resorts, particularly Palandöken.
Cultural Heritage: The city is also known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional Erzurum cuisine and crafts.

Erzurum's history is marked by its strategic location and diverse cultural influences, making it a significant city in the historical narrative of Turkey.