A route in Malatya extending from thousands-of-years-old Arslantepe Mound to waterfalls.
Malatya, the shining star of Eastern Anatolia, offers its visitors a fulfilling route not only with its world-famous apricots but also with its millennia-old historical past and fascinating canyons. This two-day trip covers a wide spectrum, starting from ancient mounds bearing traces of the world's first bureaucratic state system to waterfalls cascading down steep slopes. Stepping among ancient ruins and witnessing the magnificent landscapes offered by nature on this tour, you will have the opportunity to get to know Malatya's rich character closely.
You make a historical start to the day by visiting the enormous Arslantepe Örenyeri, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and housing the oldest known mudbrick palace ruins in the world. Following your archaeological discoveries, you move on to the Turgut Özal nature park, situated around a pond and notable for its pristine air, taking a short break amidst the greenery. Upon returning to the city center, you see the imposing Battalgazi Heykeli, keeping the memory of the legendary folk hero alive, and end the first day by touring the Malatya Müzesi in detail, where findings and priceless artifacts obtained from regional excavations are exhibited.
On the second day, you turn your route to the city's striking natural beauties. You enjoy breathtaking views at the glass-bottomed Levent Vadisi Seyir Terasi, where you can watch the deep abysses and massive canyon resulting from millions of years of geological formations from a bird's-eye perspective. After the scenery, you visit the Günpınar Şelalesi nature park to cool off, with water cascading enthusiastically from steep cliffs, and immediately afterward, listen to the peaceful sound of water at the Kernek Şelalesi, hidden among lush vegetation. You conclude this intensive nature and history route by exploring the ruins of the Hittite fortress, which bears the traces of civilizations that dominated the region for many years and holds strategic importance.