History and Cultural Tourism in Hasankeyf
Hasankeyf, which is connected to Batman, is divided into two by the Tigris River. As the most fertile area of Mesopotamian history, it is a district that is extremely rich in terms of both history and culture and is a must-see.
The district, where the first settlements cannot be dated, has a history of 10,000 years and was designated as a Natural Protected Area in 1981. Caves carved out of limestone were used as living spaces. Hasankeyf, which has hosted many civilizations in its lands, from the Ayyubids to the Romans, from the Artukids to the Persians, and to the Ottomans, is a true center of history and culture.
The ancient city carved into caves, where families still live today, is worth seeing. The remains of the bridge from the Roman period are also among the important historical artifacts. Its location at a point where important trade routes intersect further increased the importance of the city.
Local children guide tourists visiting Hasankeyf in exchange for small tips. Many royal tombs, tombs with inscriptions of lovers who could not reunite, are some of the historical artifacts that the district hosts. Since Hasankeyf, where archaeological excavations are still ongoing, has been declared a protected site, construction is not permitted. When climbing to the castle, which has snake and scorpion figures at its second gate, do not forget to drink ayran and tea at the places along the way.
