Arguvan (District)

Malatya’s northern region invites you to a place where folk songs compete with the wind and the soil gleams like silver.

This is Arguvan, renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its heartfelt melodies. Have you ever wondered how a town’s name was pronounced thousands of years ago? Let us explore this ancient district together!

^{Arguvan Apple Orchard (Generated by artificial intelligence)}

Arguvan’s name dates back to ancient times. In Byzantine records from approximately 1600 years ago, it was recorded as "Argaous." Later, in Arabic sources it was called "Argaûn," and in Armenian records as "Argawan."

Some researchers believe the name Arguvan may derive from an ancient language meaning "place of silver". Although it was briefly known as "Tahir" during the Ottoman period, it officially adopted its current name and became a district in 1954.^【1】

Arguvan has a remarkable feature that will surprise you: its residents place great value on reading and learning. In fact, the literacy rate in the district ranges between 95% and 98%.

Why? Arguvan’s people believe that due to the mountainous terrain and limited water resources, the only path to a sustainable livelihood and a better future lies in education and reading. For this reason, Arguvan is known as one of Türkiye’s most knowledgeable and curious districts.

When you think of Arguvan, the first thing that comes to mind is folk songs. The region’s melodies are so heartfelt and poignant that their fame has spread across all of Türkiye. Every year in July, the International Arguvan Folk Song Festival is held, bringing together people from around the world to recite poetry and sing folk songs together.

^{Arguvan Music Festival (Generated by artificial intelligence)}

If you ever visit Arguvan, there are wonderful places you must see!

• Balıklı Göl (Kızık): This lake, home to unique fish, is one of visitors’ favorite stops.
• Bemera Çayı: Along this stream flowing through a lush valley, you can enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Delicious Melons: Arguvan’s soil produces not only silver-like minerals but also exceptionally tasty melons.

• 4th Century: The district’s name first appeared in Byzantine records as "Argaous."
• 8th Century: In Arabic sources, the region was recorded as "Argaûn."
• 1954: Arguvan officially became a district under Malatya.