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.
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