Akçadağ (District)

Have you ever imagined a city that could be home to vast valleys millions of years old and horses that run as fast as the wind? Akçadağ, the beautiful district of Malatya, is precisely such an exciting and mysterious place!

Akçadağ is located west of the city center of Malatya, 37 kilometers from the center. This picturesque district, situated at an elevation of 925 meters above sea level, features both expansive plains and high mountainous areas. A continental climate prevails here, with hot summers and very cold winters. Most of the local population engages in agriculture and earns their livelihood from farming. Additionally, the literacy rate in the district is remarkably high at 98 percent.^【1】

^{Malatya-Akçadağ(Generated by Artificial Intelligence)}

The history of Akçadağ stretches back to ancient times. Research conducted at sites such as Ören and İkinciler Höyük indicates that the first human settlements in the region date back to the Early Bronze Age. Later, the Hittites, Romans, and Byzantines also lived on these lands. During the Ottoman period, this area became a crucial location for supplying the army with horses and provisions. In the 1850s, Akçadağ was a township within Levent; in 1858, its administrative center was moved to Arga, its current location.

Imagine that Ferik Castle, dating back to the Hittite period, stands in this district. Knowing that ancient people lived in this fortress and in stone caves thousands of years ago is not only fascinating but deeply compelling.

In Akçadağ lies a vast farm where some of the country’s most famous racehorses are bred. Established in 1865 and later named Sultansuyu Harası, this enterprise spans an enormous area of 25,000 decares.^【2】 Here, purebred Arabian horses are lovingly and carefully raised. The beautiful foals born and raised in Sultansuyu grow into champion racehorses that gallop across hippodromes like the wind.

^{Sultansuyu Harası(Generated by Artificial Intelligence)}

One of Akçadağ’s most captivating sites is undoubtedly Levent Valley. Stretching 28 kilometers in length, this valley leaves visitors awestruck with its steep cliffs, deep gorges, and mysterious caves. At a height of 240 meters above the valley floor, a viewing platform made of steel and glass offers panoramic views. Standing on this glass terrace and gazing over the landscape gives one the sensation of flying through the sky. With its clean air and magnificent natural beauty, the valley is one of the most favored destinations for camping and outdoor sports enthusiasts.^【3】