History and archaeology / Archaeological site
Old Van City
İpekyolu, Van
A large archaeological area at the southern foot of Van Castle, full of the remains of mosques, kümbets and churches of the historic city abandoned in the early 20th century.
Safety warning
Its story
The walled city spreading south of Van Castle reflects a settlement fabric of about 800 years and is today protected, together with Van Castle, as a single archaeological site. From the city, abandoned after the destruction of the First World War years, the remains of mosques, kümbets and churches are left. Only part of the Ulu Mosque, dated to the Ahlatshah period (12th century), and the body of its brick minaret are standing; around it are buildings such as the Süleyman Han Mosque, the Kızıl Minareli (Red Minaret) Mosque, the Abbasağa Mosque and the Twin Kümbets. Some buildings have been taken into restoration under the 'Reviving Old Van City' work launched in 2023. Combined with a visit to the castle, it is possible to see together the layers stretching from the Urartians to the Ottomans.
Key facts
- Period
- Middle Ages – early 20th century
- Getting there
- Southern foot of Van Castle
- Visit duration
- 1–1.5 hours
Trip purpose
- Photography
- Day trip
Location
38.50146, 43.33833
Reviews
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Source: Web derlemesi (doğrulanmalı): https://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Van_Ulu_Camii | https://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuşpa | https://van.ktb.gov.tr/TR-437556/van-kalesive-eski-van-sehri.html | https://van.ktb.gov.tr/TR-437582/ulu-cami.html | https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q64706856 | https://www.openstreetmap.org/way/134449359