The Abdurrahman Gazi Tomb is a historical structure located southeast of the city center of Erzurum. The tomb, visited by the local people, is an important site within the region's religious practices and cultural heritage areas.

^{The Abdurrahman Gazi Tomb (Erzurum Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism)}

Location and Accessibility

The Abdurrahman Gazi Tomb is located to the southeast of the city center of Erzurum, at the foothills of Mount Palandöken. The tomb is approximately 2.5 kilometers from the city center. Its location integrates both historical and natural landscapes, making it a unique structure. The area where the tomb is situated is also known as "Şiğveler" or "Eğerlidağ." Its proximity to the settlement center enhances the accessibility of the tomb and influences the volume of visitors.

Historical Identity and Legends

There are various legends surrounding the identity of Abdurrahman Gazi. Some accounts mention that he was the standard bearer of the Prophet Muhammad and participated in the conquest of Anatolia with Islamic armies. However, these claims cannot be fully verified by historical documents. While no definitive biographical information is available, the first written reference to his name is found in the 1529 Ottoman tahrir register. Furthermore, in Evliya Çelebi’s Seyahatnâme (Book of Travels), it is stated that Abdurrahman Gazi was buried at the foot of Mount Eğerlidağ. Such narratives have contributed to Abdurrahman Gazi’s status as a sacred figure in the collective memory of the local people.

Construction Process and Architectural Features

The current structure of the tomb was built in 1796 by Ayşe Hanım, the wife of Erzurum Governor Yusuf Ziya Paşa. The inscription on the entrance door was written by calligrapher Salim. Architecturally, the tomb features an octagonal plan, reflecting traditional Ottoman tomb architecture. The use of finely cut stone is prominent in the construction. Inside the tomb, there is a sarcophagus measuring 4.85 meters in length, which is symbolically constructed to reflect the grandeur of the individual. This practice is commonly observed in many tombs throughout Anatolia.

Visitation Culture and Religious Tourism

The Abdurrahman Gazi Tomb is considered an important center of religious tourism in Erzurum. It is particularly visited by the local community on Fridays, during religious candlelight nights, and on religious holidays. Some visitors come to the tomb to offer vows, pray, or find spiritual peace. Over time, the surrounding area of the tomb has been developed with landscaping, seating areas, and green spaces, transforming it into a social recreation area. This has made the tomb not only a religious site but also a social space for the community.

Interior of the Abdurrahman Gazi Tomb (Erzurum Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism)

Conservation Status and Cultural Heritage Context

The tomb has been officially registered as an immovable cultural asset requiring protection by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The surrounding area has been planned to ensure the preservation of both the natural and historical landscape, and the structure holds a special place on Erzurum’s cultural heritage map.