Erzurum
Established at the skirts of Palandöken Mountain, Erzurum has many historical landmarks as well as many options for winter tourism on the backdrop of an impressive nature.
Historical sites to visit include the Çifte Minareli Madrasah, the most notable Seljuk architecture and a theological college built by Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat in 1253; the Ulu Mosque with its seven naves and innumerable columns; the Erzurum Castle lying on the ancient and legendary silk route of Horasan – Pasinler – Erzurum and built during the 5th century A.D.; the Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque and Yakutiye Madrasah, the Watch Tower within the Erzurum Castle; the Çobandede Bridge over the Aras River; Öşvank Church built by Georgian Princes David and Bagrat; and the Üç Kümbetler (Three Mausoleums: The biggest is believed by some to be the tomb of Emir Saltuk, who established Saltuk Turk rule in Erzurum in the late 11th century).
Erzurum also serves as the base to explore the nearby Georgian churches in the Kaçkar Mountains. It has also gained its reputation of being a modern metropolis in the Eastern Anatolian Region thanks to its vibrant life and hosting over 100,000 students in its two universities.
Located several kilometres from the city centre, there are ski trails of Palandöken where both the beginners and the experienced skiers will enjoy. The trails meet international standards and are the place where the national team of Türkiye has its practice. Thanks to Palandöken, Erzurum is a picturesque ski resort in the eastern part of Türkiye.
Highlights: Make sure to save some time for exploring the city’s rich cuisine that includes several of the country’s most famous specialties, namely cağ kebab, stuffed kadayıf, potato borani, Erzurum soup with meatballs and so on.