Izzet Pasa Mosque Mosque,
Elazig |
Elazig,
founded in the 19th century, lies on a plain inthe shadow of a mountain
crowned with the ancient city of Harput's citadel, an important Seljuk and
Ottoman cultural and academic center. The destruction of several earthquakes
and the relatively recent construction of Elazig has led to most of Harput's
population deserting it for the modern city. Several Seljuk mosques remain,
however which are worth visiting. The Keban and Karakaya dams on the Firat
river have created huge artificial lakes, dramatically altering the
surrounding environment. Twenty-five kilometers south of Elazig, the lovely
and tranquil Hazarlake invites relaxation.
High mountains encircle Tunceli, 133 km north of Elazig on the Elazig-Erzurum
road. On the way, stop off to see the fortress of Pertek, built in the
Middle Ages and stillin good condition today. In the Munzur Valley National
Park near Ovacik, 60 km northwest of Tunceli, you can fish in rushing, trout-filled
streams while enjoying the amazing scenery. |
