Kemaliye

Kemaliye (formerly known as Eğin) is a town in Turkey's Erzincan Province that feels suspended in time, situated dramatically above the Karasu River, a tributary of the Euphrates. Surrounded by the imposing Munzur Mountains, this captivating destination is a testament to human resilience and a harmonious relationship with a formidable landscape. Its inclusion on UNESCO's Tentative List of World Heritage Sites in 2021 and its designation as a Cittaslow (Slow City) in 2022 underscore its unique cultural and natural significance.

Kemaliye offers a rare blend of historical depth and thrilling natural beauty. Wander through its well-preserved Ottoman-era streets, where traditional stone and wood houses cling to steep hillsides, each telling a story of centuries past. Beyond the town's charming architecture, the formidable Karanlık Canyon beckons adventurers with its sheer cliffs and the winding Karasu River below. This is a place where every turn reveals a new vista, and the echoes of ancient traditions resonate through the narrow alleys and dramatic gorges.

## A Crossroads of Civilizations Kemaliye's strategic location along the Silk Road and ancient caravan routes made it a coveted settlement, leading to a rich and complex history. The region has seen the rise and fall of numerous empires and dynasties, including the Romans, Byzantines, Sassanids, Persians, Seljuks, Ilkhanids, Akkoyunlu, and Ottomans. Originally known as Teucila, it was an important outpost for the Armenian people, particularly after becoming part of the eastern Byzantine Empire. During the reign of Byzantine Emperor Philippikos, Armenians were settled here, and the town remained under Islamic Arab rule for approximately two centuries until the 11th century, when it became part of the Seljuk Empire following Sultan Alparslan's victory at Manzikert.

Under Ottoman rule, Kemaliye, then known as Eğin, flourished as an important commercial center between 1413 and 1421 during the reign of Mehmed I. The town's diverse cultural heritage saw Muslim-Turks, Armenians, Orthodox Christians, and Rums coexisting and sharing social and cultural customs. The name Eğin, derived from the Old Armenian word 'Akn' meaning 'spring', reflects the town's abundant water sources. In 1922, in recognition of its participation in the Turkish National Liberation War, the town was renamed Kemaliye at the suggestion of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Today, Kemaliye's historical streets, mosques, madrasahs, baths, and fountains stand as enduring monuments to its multicultural past and continuous urban identity.

Begin your exploration in the Historic Town Center, where well-preserved Ottoman-era houses with their distinctive stone ground floors and wooden upper levels line the streets. Take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the intricate details and the unique 'hımış' construction technique.

Experience the Karanlık Canyon (Dark Canyon), one of the world's deepest. Take a boat tour along the Karasu River to marvel at the towering rock formations and cascading waterfalls. For the adventurous, the canyon offers opportunities for rock climbing, canyoning, and even base-jumping from a steel cable stretched across the chasm.

Traverse the Kemaliye Stone Road (Taş Yol), an extraordinary feat of engineering carved into the canyon's cliff face. This narrow, unpaved road, with its 38 tunnels, offers a thrilling drive and expansive views of the Euphrates hundreds of meters below.

Visit the Zeyrek Camii, a historical mosque showcasing beautiful Ottoman-style architecture, and enjoy the wide views of Kemaliye and the surrounding mountains from its courtyard. Explore the Ahmet Kutsi Tecer Kültür Evi, a cultural center that offers insights into local traditions. Do not miss the chance to sample the traditional 'lök' dessert at a local 'lökhane'.

The best time to visit Kemaliye is between May and October, when the weather is mild and most outdoor activities, such as exploring Simenit National Park, are accessible. Early July offers a unique spectacle with the rare 10-day sunset phenomenon in Karanlık Canyon. The annual International Erzincan, Kemaliye Culture and Nature Sports Festival, typically held in the first week of July, is another excellent time to experience the town's culture and adrenaline-pumping activities.

Kemaliye is accessible by road, with connections from Erzincan. While the town itself is best explored on foot, a jeep tour is recommended for navigating the challenging Taş Yol. Local 'lokantas' offer traditional Turkish cuisine, including specialties like gözleme and keşkek. For a unique local treat, seek out a 'lökhane' to taste the famed lök dessert. When visiting mosques, dress modestly and remember to remove your shoes. The town's peaceful atmosphere and lack of mass tourism make it a relaxing destination, but be prepared for limited English in some areas.