Hasankeyf,Turkey

Hasankeyf is an ancient town on the Tigris River in Batman Province, southeastern Turkey. Occupied for millennia (archaeological evidence suggests habitation going back thousands of years), it was an important river crossing and regional stronghold with layers of Roman, Byzantine, Artuqid and Ottoman history. Its limestone cliffs contain rock-cut dwellings, tombs and cave complexes, while the citadel, mosques and mausoleums reflect significant medieval Islamic architecture. The site’s rich stratigraphy and dramatic river gorge made it both an archaeological treasure and a striking natural landscape. In recent years Hasankeyf has become widely known because of the Ilısu Dam project, which led to the flooding of large parts of the historic town and a major international heritage debate.

Places to visit

Hasankeyf Castle (Citadel)
Zeynel Bey Mausoleum (14th-century Artuqid monument)
Rock-cut dwellings and tombs (cliff houses)
Hasankeyf Bridge remains (historic crossing over the Tigris)
El-Rızk Mosque and minaret
Great Cave Complex and cliff-face terraces
Tigris river gorge viewpoints and scenic cliffs

Unique Aspects

Limestone cliffs carved with ancient caves and tombs
Layered archaeological deposits spanning Roman, Byzantine, Artuqid and Ottoman periods
Dramatic Tigris river gorge scenery and panoramic cliff-top views
Cultural landscape that combined riverine economy, cave habitation and fortified citadel
Biodiversity corridors along the Tigris supporting migratory birds and riverine species

Things to do

Sightseeing and photography of cliff architecture and river views
Exploring rock-cut caves and historic tombs (where safely accessible)
Guided archaeological and historical tours
Visiting relocated monuments and local exhibitions about Hasankeyf’s history
Boat trips on the Tigris (seasonal/limited) and riverside walks
Engaging with local vendors and sampling regional cuisine
Birdwatching and enjoying panoramic viewpoints

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) — mild temperatures, clearer skies and more comfortable walking conditions. Summers are very hot and winters can be cold.

Weather Conditions

Continental climate: hot, dry summers (often very hot in July–August), cool to cold winters with occasional frost or snow; spring and autumn are generally mild.

Entry Fees & Permits

Most historic features are open-air and historically accessible without a major national-entry fee, though museums, visitor centres or relocated-exhibit areas may charge a small entrance fee. Opening hours are typically daylight hours; always check the latest local information because access and ticketing changed after the Ilısu Dam works.

Accessibility

Nearest airport: Batman Airport (E90) — about 30–40 km by road. Hasankeyf is reachable by road from Batman city, Diyarbakır and Mardin. Local minibuses (dolmuş) and regional buses serve the area; a private car or guided tour provides the most flexible access. Important: access routes, parking and site layouts changed following the Ilısu Dam and reservoir filling; check current access points (including new visitor areas and relocated monuments) before travel.

Recommended Duration

A half-day to a full day will cover the main viewpoints and a walk through the primary sites; 1–2 days recommended if you want to explore caves, take boat trips and visit nearby attractions in the Batman region.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Sturdy walking shoes for uneven and rocky terrain, sun protection (hat, sunscreen) in summer, light layers for temperature swings between day and night, a small flashlight for darker cave areas, and modest clothing when visiting mosques or local conservative communities.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Try regional Kurdish/Turkish dishes in nearby markets and eateries — kebabs, mezes and local sweets. Souvenirs include woven textiles, local handicrafts, copperware and postcards/photobooks documenting Hasankeyf’s archaeology. When possible, buy from local vendors to support displaced families and communities.