History and archaeology / Archaeological site
Harabeşehir and the Ahlat Cave Dwellings
Ahlat, Bitlis
A historic settlement area of hundreds of rock-cut caves in the Harabeşehir valley, where the remains of old Ahlat lie.
Safety warning
Its story
Around Ahlat, especially in Harabeşehir and the surrounding canyons, there are said to be some 500–600 caves carved into the rocks. Researchers think these caves were used as shelters and dwellings from very early periods; it is suggested that factors such as earthquakes, war and the harsh climate encouraged rock settlements. In the valley are also the remains of the castle and mosques of the old city of Ahlat; the area is protected as a first-degree archaeological site. Some of the caves are privately owned and are used by local people as storage because they stay cool. For this reason, visitors generally view the rock hollows and remains from outside, looking over the valley from its edge. It can be visited together with the Seljuk Meydan Cemetery and the Hasan Padişah Kümbet.
Key facts
- Period
- From prehistory to the Middle Ages
- Getting there
- Ahlat, the valley north of the Seljuk Meydan Cemetery
- Visit duration
- 30–45 minutes
Trip purpose
- Photography
- Hiking
Location
38.74670, 42.45549
Where to eat nearby
No food & drink venues listed nearby.
Map data: © OpenStreetMap contributors; Overture Maps
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Source: Web derlemesi (doğrulanmalı): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cave_dwellings_of_Ahlat | https://goturkiye.com/bitlis/see | https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q137786608 | https://www.openstreetmap.org/node/5827563785