Old City of Van
Eski Van Şehri
Ruins of the old city south of Van Fortress, destroyed after 1915, now with crumbling walls and restored Ottoman mosques.
The old city of Van was once a prosperous town where Turks, Kurds and Armenians lived side by side. It was destroyed during World War I, after which the city moved to a new site to the east. Today only broken walls remain on the plain south of the fortress, scattered with the restored Kaya Çelebi Mosque (late 16th century), the Hüsrev Pasha mosque complex and bathhouse ruins, in a bleak and atmospheric landscape. The best view of the old town's outline is from the top of the fortress, though you can also walk down the hill to explore. It is free to visit. There is no shade, so bring sun protection.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Van Fortress
- Van Museum
- Van Breakfast Street
- Van Cat House
- Varagavank (Yedi Kilise)
- Çavuştepe Castle (Sardurihinili)
- Ayanis Fortress
- Çarpanak Island (Ktuts Monastery)