Adıyaman is a city located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Türkiye that has hosted 16 different civilizations throughout history, including the Hittites, Assyrians, Persians, the Kingdom of Commagene, Romans, and Byzantines. It borders Malatya to the north, Kahramanmaraş to the west, Gaziantep to the southwest, Şanlıurfa to the southeast, and Diyarbakır to the east. Situated on the northern edge of the Fertile Crescent, Adıyaman is home to Mount Nemrut and the monumental statues of the Commagene Civilization, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making the city a major center of international cultural tourism. In addition to its historical heritage, the city is rich in water resources such as the Euphrates River and Atatürk Dam, contributing to the national economy through energy, agriculture, and petroleum production. Due to its transitional location between the Mediterranean, Eastern, and Southeastern Anatolia regions, Adıyaman exhibits diverse climatic and vegetative characteristics and serves as a settlement where history, culture, and nature converge.
History
Ancient Period
Adıyaman is one of the oldest inhabited areas of Anatolia and has been under the rule of various civilizations throughout history. Archaeological evidence indicates continuous human settlement since the Paleolithic Age. Excavations in regions such as Pirin, Zey, Haydaran, Palanlı, and Gümüşkaya have uncovered remnants of prehistoric civilizations.
The region remained under the control of the Hittites until the collapse of the Hittite Empire around 1200 BCE, after which it was governed by the Hurrian and Mitanni kingdoms. Later, the Kingdom of Kummuh, the Urartians, and the Assyrians dominated the area. During the reign of Assyrian King Shalmaneser III, Adıyaman and its surroundings were annexed into the Assyrian territories. In the 6th century BCE, the area came under the
rule of the Persian Empire and was later annexed by the Macedonian Kingdom following Alexander the Great’s victory over the Persians.
After Alexander’s death, the region came under the control of the Seleucid Empire. In the 1st century BCE, the weakening of the Seleucids led to the establishment of the independent Kingdom of Commagene, marking a significant period in Adıyaman’s history. Monumental statues and tumuli were constructed on Mount Nemrut during this time, reflecting the region’s architectural and artistic development. The most notable ruler of Commagene, Antiochus I (69–36 BCE), is known for commissioning the construction of these statues and temples.
In 72 CE, the Kingdom of Commagene was annexed by the Roman Empire and governed as a Roman province. During this time, Adıyaman became an important center along major trade routes.
Medieval Period
Following the division of the Roman Empire, Adıyaman came under the rule of the Byzantine Empire. The Byzantines fortified the region against Sasanian and Arab invasions. In the 7th century, Muslim Arabs launched expeditions during the Umayyad period, and the city was conquered during the reign of Muawiyah in 670 CE. At that time, the settlement began to be known as Hısnımansûr, a name thought to derive from the Umayyad commander Mansur bin Cavane or Abbasid Caliph Abu Ja'far al-Mansur.
The region fell under the control of the Abbasids in 758 and was later ruled by the Hamdanids between 926 and 958 before being recaptured by the Byzantines. In the 11th century, Turkish incursions began, and the city was conquered by the Seljuk commander Gümüştegin in 1066. Over time, the region changed hands between the Artuqids, Ayyubids, and Seljuks, and was later invaded by the Mongols.
Beyliks and the Ottoman Period
During the 13th and 14th centuries, Adıyaman frequently changed hands among Turkic-Islamic states such as the Ilkhanids, Aq Qoyunlu, and the Dulkadirids. In 1515, Sultan Selim I annexed the Dulkadirid Beylik into the Ottoman Empire, bringing the region under Ottoman rule.
Under the Ottomans, Hısnımansûr was administered as a sanjak (district) of the Maraş Eyalet and was later attached to the Elbistan Sanjak in 1531. In 1563, it was reattached to Maraş. During the Tanzimat period, it was designated as a kaza (sub-district) in 1841 and became a sanjak under the Diyarbekir Vilayet in 1849. It was later affiliated with the Malatya Sanjak in 1859 and the Mamuretülaziz (Elazığ) Vilayet in 1883.
Republican Era
After the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Adıyaman was governed as a district of Malatya Province between 1923 and 1954 under the Republic of Türkiye. On June 22, 1954, it was granted provincial status, forming the Adıyaman Province together with the districts of Besni, Gerger, and Kahta. Çelikhan (1958), Gölbaşı, and Samsat (1960) were later added as districts of Adıyaman.
From the second half of the 20th century onward, Adıyaman underwent rapid development, especially in agriculture, industry, and tourism. In 1987, Mount Nemrut was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming a major tourist attraction. The construction of the Atatürk Dam also brought significant economic and social changes to the region.
21st Century and the Present Day
Today, Adıyaman continues to be an important city in Türkiye’s Southeastern Anatolia Region. It stands out with its historical and cultural heritage, including Mount Nemrut, the Cendere Bridge, the ancient city of Perre, Arsemia, and the Karakuş Tumulus. The city holds a significant place in the region’s economy through developments in tourism, agriculture, industry, and energy.
In summary, Adıyaman is a vital settlement that preserves the traces of numerous civilizations from antiquity to the present and maintains its historical and cultural fabric.
Beyliks and the Ottoman Period
During the 13th and 14th centuries, Adıyaman frequently changed hands among Turkic-Islamic states such as the Ilkhanids, Aq Qoyunlu, and the Dulkadirids. In 1515, Sultan Selim I annexed the Dulkadirid Beylik into the Ottoman Empire, bringing the region under Ottoman rule.
Under the Ottomans, Hısnımansûr was administered as a sanjak (district) of the Maraş Eyalet and was later attached to the Elbistan Sanjak in 1531. In 1563, it was reattached to Maraş. During the Tanzimat period, it was designated as a kaza (sub-district) in 1841 and became a sanjak under the Diyarbekir Vilayet in 1849. It was later affiliated with the Malatya Sanjak in 1859 and the Mamuretülaziz (Elazığ) Vilayet in 1883.
Republican Era
After the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Adıyaman was governed as a district of Malatya Province between 1923 and 1954 under the Republic of Türkiye. On June 22, 1954, it was granted provincial status, forming the Adıyaman Province together with the districts of Besni, Gerger, and Kahta. Çelikhan (1958), Gölbaşı, and Samsat (1960) were later added as districts of Adıyaman.
From the second half of the 20th century onward, Adıyaman underwent rapid development, especially in agriculture, industry, and tourism. In 1987, Mount Nemrut was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming a major tourist attraction. The construction of the Atatürk Dam also brought significant economic and social changes to the region.
21st Century and the Present Day
Today, Adıyaman continues to be an important city in Türkiye’s Southeastern Anatolia Region. It stands out with its historical and cultural heritage, including Mount Nemrut, the Cendere Bridge, the ancient city of Perre, Arsemia, and the Karakuş Tumulus. The city holds a significant place in the region’s economy through developments in tourism, agriculture, industry, and energy.
In summary, Adıyaman is a vital settlement that preserves the traces of numerous civilizations from antiquity to the present and maintains its historical and cultural fabric.
Geography
Adıyaman is located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Türkiye. It shares borders with Diyarbakır to the east, Kahramanmaraş to the west, Malatya to the north, Şanlıurfa to the southeast, and Gaziantep to the southwest. The province lies south of the Southeastern Taurus Mountains, west of the Zagros Mountains, and north of the Persian Gulf, situated along the upper boundary of the Fertile Crescent.
The total area of the province is 7,614 square kilometers, and it generally features a rugged terrain. The northern part is surrounded by the Malatya Mountains, which are an extension of the Taurus Mountains. Districts such as Çelikhan, Gerger, and Tut are largely mountainous. Prominent mountains in the province include Akdağ, Dibek, Ulubaba, Gördük, Nemrut, Bozdağ, and Karadağ. As one moves southward, flat areas with plain characteristics become more prevalent. The Kahta, Samsat, Keysun, and Pınarbaşı plains are the main flatlands of the province.
Adıyaman is rich in rivers fed by the Euphrates River and its tributaries. The Euphrates is the most important water source for the province and forms part of its border with Şanlıurfa and Diyarbakır. Within Adıyaman, the river stretches for 180 kilometers and is joined by major tributaries such as the Kahta Stream, Kalburcu Stream, and Göksu Stream. Located in the south of the province, the Atatürk Dam spans the Euphrates and is one of Türkiye’s largest hydroelectric power plants, playing a vital role in the regional economy.
Due to its geographical location, Adıyaman serves as a bridge between the Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia Regions and also exhibits partial influence from the Mediterranean climate. As a result, its vegetation includes characteristics of all three regions. Oak trees are widespread in mountainous areas, while steppe and maquis vegetation dominate the lower elevations. Meadows and pastures are commonly found around water sources.
Climate
Adıyaman has a transitional climate between continental and Mediterranean climates. While winters are cold and rainy, summers are characterized by prolonged periods of drought and heat.
The average annual temperature is around 16–17°C. In the summer months, temperatures can rise up to 40°C, while in the winter they can drop to as low as –10°C. The hottest months are July and August, while the coldest are January and February.
Precipitation in the region is typically concentrated in the winter and spring months. The annual average rainfall ranges from 600 to 900 mm, and this amount can be significantly higher in mountainous areas. Most precipitation falls in the form of rain and snow.
Winds in the region generally blow from the west and northwest. In winter, cold air waves can bring strong winds, while milder breezes prevail during spring and autumn.
In the mountainous parts of the province, snow cover may persist throughout the winter, while the southern regions experience milder winters. The microclimatic effect around the Atatürk Dam and the Euphrates River contributes to temperature variations and higher humidity in certain areas.
Population
With a population of 611,037, Adıyaman is one of the prominent cities in the Southeastern Anatolia Region. The population is distributed relatively evenly between the provincial center and its districts. The central district is home to 290,883 people, while the most populous district is Kahta, with 134,524 residents.
Population by District
- Central: 290,883
- Kahta: 134,524
- Besni: 75,849
- Gölbaşı: 47,983
- Sincik: 16,016
- Gerger: 15,052
- Çelikhan: 14,641
- Tut: 9,333
- Samsat: 6,756
Kahta, the largest district, has a high population due to its historical and cultural significance, agricultural production, and trade activities. Besni and Gölbaşı are also important districts in terms of commercial and agricultural operations. On the other hand, Samsat, Çelikhan, Gerger, Sincik, and Tut have smaller populations and are predominantly rural in character.
Population Dynamics and Migration
The majority of Adıyaman’s population is concentrated in the city center and larger districts like Kahta. A portion of the rural population migrates to major cities or abroad for economic reasons. The rate of population growth varies across districts depending on the development of agriculture, industry, and services.
Age and Gender Distribution
Adıyaman has a relatively young population, and the working population is primarily employed in the agriculture and industrial sectors. The male-to-female ratio is balanced, with a significant portion of the rural population engaged in farming and livestock activities.
Overall, Adıyaman is a city that is growing through agriculture and industry, holds significance in terms of tourism due to its historical and cultural assets, and has the majority of its population centered in the provincial capital and Kahta district.
Economy
Adıyaman’s economy is largely based on agriculture, industry, mining, energy, and trade sectors. In recent years, significant progress has been made particularly in the textile and food industries, and state incentives have strengthened the investment environment.
Agriculture and Livestock
The foundation of Adıyaman's economy lies in agriculture. A large portion of the province’s land is used for agricultural purposes. Major crops include wheat, barley, lentils, chickpeas, cotton, pistachios, grapes, and tobacco.
Tobacco has historically been one of the most important commercial crops in Adıyaman, though its production has declined due to state policies and quota restrictions. Cotton farming is also well-developed, especially around Kahta and Samsat.
Viticulture and fruit cultivation are also key economic activities. Besni district is one of Türkiye’s leading grape production centers. Adıyaman pistachios have also seen increased production and high commercial value in recent years.
The livestock sector is another important component of the local economy. Sheep, goats, and cattle are commonly raised. Small-scale livestock farming is prevalent in mountainous and rural areas, while large-scale livestock farming is more common in the plains. Beekeeping is also widespread, and Adıyaman honey is marketed as a notable local product.
Industry and Manufacturing Sector
Adıyaman is among the developing provinces in terms of industrialization, with textile, food, and marble sectors leading its industrial production.
The province’s industrial businesses are mostly composed of small and medium-sized enterprises. Thanks to Organized Industrial Zones (OIZ), industrial investments have increased. There are 731 businesses registered with Industrial Registry Certificates across the province, employing a total of 22,700 people.
An Industrial Zone in Adıyaman
The primary investment areas in the industrial sector include:
- Textile and ready-wear clothing (25.38%)
- Food production (14.44%)
- Electricity, gas, steam, and ventilation systems (14.29%)
The textile industry holds a significant place in Adıyaman’s economy, particularly in yarn and fabric production. Locally grown cotton is used directly in the yarn and textile sector and processed in large factories. Products manufactured in these factories are supplied to both domestic and international markets.
In the food industry, there are flour mills, fruit juice production facilities, and dairy product enterprises. Adıyaman is particularly known for its grape juice and fruit leather (pestil) production.
Mining also plays a significant role in the economy. Marble quarries represent one of the largest investments in this sector. The extracted marble is both used domestically and exported to various countries.
Energy and Mining
Adıyaman is one of Türkiye’s major petroleum production centers, accounting for approximately 20% of the country’s crude oil output. The region hosts oil fields operated by the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO). In addition, Adıyaman continues to develop in terms of renewable energy investments. Hydroelectric power plants significantly contribute to the province’s energy production. The Atatürk Dam, one of Türkiye’s largest hydroelectric plants, provides substantial economic benefits to the region.
Trade and Foreign Trade
Trade in Adıyaman mainly revolves around agricultural and industrial products. Agricultural goods, raw materials for industry, and food products are especially prominent in trade activities. The main commercial hubs within the province include the city center, Kahta, Besni, and Gölbaşı. Proximity to major trade centers like Gaziantep and Malatya enables strong economic ties with these cities. Adıyaman’s foreign trade volume varies by year. As of 2021, the province's total export value stood at $75.9 million, while imports totaled $66.5 million.
Main export items from Adıyaman include:
- Pharmaceutical products (23.05%)
- Knitted garments (18.05%)
- Cotton and cotton yarn (6.58%)
- Cereals and legumes (5.66%)
- Vegetables and root crops (5.27%)
- Tobacco and tobacco products (3.42%)
Adıyaman’s imports are largely composed of raw materials used in industry and manufacturing. The most imported items include cotton, textile raw materials, machinery, and plastic products.
Tourism
With its historical and cultural heritage, Adıyaman is one of Türkiye’s major tourism centers. Monumental structures from the Kingdom of Commagene, Mount Nemrut, and Roman-era ruins make the city attractive for cultural tourism. Mount Nemrut, included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, has transformed Adıyaman into an international tourism destination.
Additionally, nature tourism around the Euphrates River and Atatürk Dam, along with water sports, highland tourism, hunting, and health tourism, has been gaining popularity in recent years.
Having hosted numerous civilizations throughout history, Adıyaman is rich in ancient cities, tumuli, bridges, and castles. Notable places to visit in the city include:
1. Mount Nemrut and Monumental Statues
Mount Nemrut is the most famous tourist attraction in Adıyaman. The massive statues of gods and kings were built by King Antiochus I of Commagene in the 1st century BCE and are located at an altitude of 2,206 meters. Sunrise and sunset views are among the most captivating experiences for visitors. Mount Nemrut was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987.
2. Arsemia Ancient City
Located in the Kahta district, Arsemia served as the summer administrative center of the Kingdom of Commagene. The site features large rock reliefs, Greek inscriptions, and monumental tombs.
3. Cendere Bridge (Septimius Severus Bridge)
Built during the reign of Roman Emperor Septimius Severus, the Cendere Bridge is one of the oldest stone bridges in the world. It spans the Cendere Stream, a tributary of the Euphrates, within the borders of Kahta.
4. Perre Ancient City
Situated 5 km from Adıyaman city center, the ancient city of Perre was a commercial hub during the Commagene period. The site includes rock-cut tombs, ancient roads, and water channels.
5. Karakuş Tumulus
A royal women’s tomb from the Kingdom of Commagene, the Karakuş Tumulus is named after the eagle sculpture that stands on one of its columns.
6. Old Kahta Castle (New Castle)
Built during the Mamluk period, Old Kahta Castle was also used during Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman times. Inside the castle are cisterns, secret water channels, a mosque, and the remains of a bathhouse.
7. Gerger Castle
Located on a cliff overlooking the Euphrates River, Gerger Castle was originally built during the Roman era and remained in use during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods.
8. Gölbaşı Nature Park
Ideal for nature lovers, Gölbaşı Nature Park is located in the Gölbaşı district of Adıyaman. It offers opportunities for camping, picnicking, fishing, and hiking by the lake.
9. Atatürk Dam and Water Sports
The Atatürk Dam, one of Türkiye’s largest hydroelectric power plants, is also a key center for water sports and fishing. Sailing races, boat tours, and nature activities are organized around the dam.
10. Zey Caves
Located 7 km from Adıyaman city center, the Zey Caves have been inhabited since prehistoric times. Rock-carved rooms and water cisterns reveal traces of early life in the region.
