Erzurum

Erzurum is a historic city in eastern Turkey, set on a high plateau at around 1,900 metres above sea level. Known for its long, snowy winters and the nearby Palandöken ski slopes, it is one of the highest major cities in the country and a gateway to Eastern Anatolia.

The city has deep historical roots, once known as Theodosiopolis in antiquity and later as Arz-e Rum, meaning 'Land of the Romans.' As a stop on the Silk Road and an Ottoman provincial capital, Erzurum accumulated layers of Seljuk, Mongol, Ottoman and modern Turkish heritage. In 1919, the Erzurum Congress convened here under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, making the city a landmark in the founding of the Turkish Republic.

Its landmarks include the hilltop Erzurum Castle, the Çifte Minareli Medrese with its twin minarets, the Yakutiye Medrese, the Üç Kümbetler tombs and several historic mosques. The Rüstem Pasha Caravanserai, now known as Taşhan, still functions as a bazaar selling local crafts, Oltu stone jewellery and regional products.

Around the compact city centre, visitors find university life from Atatürk University, busy food streets and winter sports culture. Palandöken and Konaklı ski resorts lie just south of the city, while day trips lead to the Tortum Waterfall, Lake Tortum and the red rock formations of the Narman Fairy Chimneys.

For travellers, Erzurum pairs outdoor winter recreation with a rich cultural itinerary, and it serves as a practical base for exploring eastern Turkey. Business visitors also find conference venues, university ties and year-round air connections through Erzurum Airport.