Van
The most populated city of the Eastern Anatolia Region, Van has been home to many cultures and civilizations throughout history, traces of which can be seen in every part of the city. Under the name of Tushpa, it used to be capital of the kingdom known in history as the Urartian. Thanks to its rich historic background, Van promises great historic landmarks as well as a splendid nature. Van is home to Türkiye’s largest lake, and the world’s largest sodic lake. Around the lake sit some important historic sites.
The Bartholomeys, Altınsaç and Lim Monastery and Seven Churches in addition to the Hüsrev Pasha, Kaya Çelebi and İzzettin Efendi mosques are the religious sites worthy of a visit.
Van Castle is another historical landmark of the city which promises visitors one of the best sunsets, combining every shade of blue, red, and orange. The beautiful structure, which is considered the symbol of Van, is constructed on a 100 m high rock. It’s only 5 km away from the city centre. It has an outdoors temple and contains tombs of Urartu Kings.
Also, make sure to save time to visit the Hoşap Castle which was built in a town called Gürpınar by Mahmudi Süleyman and it’s 60 km away from the city centre. It contains small houses, a cistern, a small temple, and dungeons.
A beautiful island lies on Lake Van. This beautiful island has a long history, but its main attraction is the Church of Akdamar which is very important to Christian tourists from around the globe. You can take a ferry ride to visit the island.
Highlights : Van is also the home of the Van Cat. These cats are white with long hair and have one blue and one yellow eye. This is the only member of the cat species that likes to swim and play in water.