Sivas
· TR

Sivas

Sivas, Sivas, Turkey

Step Back in Time in Sivas, Turkey Sivas, a city steeped in history and culture, invites you to discover its ancient streets and experience the warmth of Turkish hospitality. Located in the heart of Anatolia, Sivas offer…

#Historic city#Cultural heritage#Anatolian architecture#Silk Road#Central Anatolia
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Sivas.

Top Hotels in Sivas

Top Flights to Sivas

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Sivas.

Tours

Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital

A UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its intricate stone carvings and architecture dating back to the 13th century.

Sivas City Center Walking Tour

Explore the historical and cultural landmarks of Sivas city center.

Shopping

Shopping at Sivas Modern AVM

Experience shopping in one of Sivas' largest shopping malls, offering both local and international brands.

Outdoor

Hiking at Gökpınar Lake

Enjoy a scenic hike around the beautiful Gökpınar Lake, surrounded by nature and tranquility.

Location videos

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

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Sivas.

Currency
₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Sivas, Sivas, Turkey is 0.4 million.
Languages
Turkish, Turkish
Average weather
Sivas
Jan
snow
-1°-10°
Feb
snow
1°-8°
Mar
cold
6°-4°
Apr
cloud
13°1°
May
cloud
18°5°
Jun
sun
24°9°
Jul
hot
28°12°
Aug
hot
28°12°
Sep
sun
23°7°
Oct
cloud
16°3°
Nov
cold
8°-2°
Dec
snow
2°-7°

Local guide

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

What people love

Sivas, located in the eastern part of central Anatolia in Turkey, offers a unique travel experience with several pros for visitors:

  1. Historical and Cultural Heritage: Sivas is a city rich in history, with many historical sites and landmarks to explore. The city has a long and diverse history, with influences from various civilizations including the Hittites, Phrygians, Romans, and Ottomans. Visitors can explore the Grand Mosque of Sivas, the Şifaiye Medrese, and the Sivas Archaeological Museum to learn more about the city's past.

  2. Natural Beauty: Sivas is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is located near the Erciyes and Hazar mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, trekking, and other outdoor activities. The region also has several lakes and rivers, providing scenic views and opportunities for water sports.

  3. Thermal Springs: Sivas is known for its thermal springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the hot springs while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. The Kangal Balıklı Kaplıca, which is famous for its healing fish, is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and wellness.

  4. Local Cuisine: Sivas is known for its delicious local cuisine, which features traditional Turkish dishes with a unique regional twist. Visitors can sample local specialties such as Sivas meatballs (Sivas köfte), tarhana soup, and Ayran, a refreshing yogurt drink. The city also has a vibrant food scene with many restaurants and cafes serving a variety of dishes.

  5. Hospitality: Sivas is known for its warm hospitality and friendly locals. Visitors can expect to be welcomed with open arms and experience the genuine hospitality of the Turkish people. The city has a lively atmosphere with bustling markets, traditional tea houses, and cultural events that showcase the local way of life.

Overall, traveling to Sivas offers a blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and relaxation, making it a great destination for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path travel experience in Turkey.

What to know

Sivas, located in central Turkey, is a historically and culturally rich city known for its Seljuk architecture and its role in the early years of the Turkish Republic. However, as with any destination, there are some potential cons to keep in mind when traveling to Sivas:

  1. Limited tourist infrastructure: Sivas is not as well-developed for tourism as some other popular destinations in Turkey. This means there may be fewer options for accommodations, restaurants, and tourist services compared to more tourist-heavy cities.

  2. Language barriers: While English may be spoken to some extent in more touristy areas, you may encounter language barriers in Sivas, especially if you venture off the beaten path. It could be challenging to communicate with locals who do not speak English.

  3. Remote location: Sivas is located inland and may require a longer journey to reach compared to coastal cities like Istanbul or Antalya. The city may not be as easily accessible by direct flights or public transportation, making travel logistics more complicated.

  4. Limited attractions: While Sivas has historical sites and cultural landmarks to explore, the city may not offer as many tourist attractions and activities as other destinations in Turkey. This could potentially lead to a shorter stay or fewer things to do during your visit.

  5. Weather extremes: Sivas experiences continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. If you are sensitive to extreme temperatures, you may find the weather uncomfortable during certain times of the year.

Overall, while Sivas offers a unique and authentic Turkish experience, travelers should be prepared for some challenges related to infrastructure, language, accessibility, and weather when visiting the city.

Sivas, located in central Turkey, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It has been known by various names throughout history, including Sebastea and Megalopolis-Sebasteia, reflecting its changing rulers and cultural influences.

Ancient and Byzantine Periods

  • Hittite Era: The area around Sivas was inhabited during the Hittite period, although specific records of the city from this time are scarce.
  • Roman and Byzantine Periods: The city, known as Sebastea, became an important part of the Roman Empire. It was later integrated into the Byzantine Empire and served as a key military and administrative center.

Seljuk and Ottoman Periods

  • Seljuk Turks: In the late 11th century, the Seljuk Turks captured Sivas. Under their rule, Sivas became an important cultural and commercial hub. The Seljuk era left a significant architectural legacy in the city.
  • Ottoman Empire: Sivas was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the late 14th century. It continued to flourish as a regional center of trade and culture during the Ottoman period.

Significant Historical Events

  • Sivas Congress (1919): One of the most pivotal events in the history of Sivas was the Sivas Congress, held from September 4 to 11, 1919. This congress was a crucial gathering in the Turkish War of Independence, led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. It laid down strategies for the national independence movement and was a precursor to the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923.

Important Landmarks

  • Sivas Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii): Constructed in 1197, this mosque is one of the oldest and most significant examples of Seljuk architecture in Sivas.
  • Gök Medrese: Built in 1271, this theological school is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and stands as a testament to the Seljuk architectural prowess.
  • Sifaiye Medrese: Dating back to 1217, this structure served as a hospital and medical school. It is another example of the Seljuk influence in Sivas.
  • Buruciye Medrese: Built in 1271, this medrese (educational institution) is known for its beautiful portal and serves as a cultural center today.

Historical Figures

  • Mustafa Kemal Atatürk: The founder of the Republic of Turkey, Atatürk played a significant role in the Sivas Congress, which was instrumental in the national independence movement.
  • Izzeddin Keykavus I: A Seljuk sultan who contributed to the architectural development of Sivas, including the construction of the Sifaiye Medrese.

Modern Sivas

Today, Sivas is known for its historical architecture and its role in Turkey's independence movement. It serves as a provincial capital and continues to be a center of culture and history in Turkey.

Sivas' rich history and its blend of architectural styles from different periods make it a fascinating city with a significant place in Turkish history.