Bingöl (Province)

Bingöl is a province located in the East Anatolia Region of Türkiye, covering an area of place and having been under the dominion of various civilizations throughout history. Its geographical structure is largely mountainous and highland, shaped by river valleys and lakes. It is reputed that the name Bingöl derives from the numerous lake and water springs in the region.

History

Bingöl has been home to many civilizations throughout history and due to its house location has been a site of important events and stage conflicts. The city’s history spans a continuous timeline from antiquity through the Islamic period, Ottoman rule, and into the Republican era, encompassing long historical developments.

Antique and Medieval Period

Archaeological research conducted in Bingöl and its surroundings reveals a history extending back to 3000 BCE. The Hattians, Hittites, Urartians, Medes, Persians, Macedonians, and Roman-Byzantine civilizations all established dominance over Bingöl’s territory.

• Urartians (9th century BCE – 6th century BCE): During the Urartian Kingdom period, Bingöl became an agriculturally developed region marked by fortresses and irrigation canals. Structures such as the Kığı Castle found in the vicinity of Bingöl today belong to the Urartian era.
• Persian and Hellenistic Period (6th century BCE – 1st century BCE): The region was administered under the satrapy system during the Persian Empire and later came under the influence of Hellenistic culture following the conquests of Alexander the Great.
• Roman and Byzantine Period (1st century CE – 7th century CE): Bingöl served as a military garrison and frontier zone during the Roman and Byzantine periods and at times became the center of conflicts with the Sassanian Empire.

Turk-Islamic Period

Bingöl began to come under Islamic influence from the 7th century onward through raids by Islamic armies. However, lasting Turk-Islamic dominance was established after the Battle of Manzikert in 1071.

• Danishmends and Seljuks (11th century – 13th century): Bingöl and its surroundings were conquered by commanders of Seljuk Sultan Alp Arslan, and Turkmen tribes were settled in the region.
• Mongol and Ilkhanid Rule (13th century – 14th century): After the Battle of Köse Dağ in 1243, Bingöl fell under Mongol control.
• Akkoyunlu and Safavid Period (14th century – 16th century): Following the withdrawal of the Mongols, Bingöl came under the control of the Akkoyunlus and later the Safavids.

Ottoman Period

In 1514, following Sultan Selim I’s Çaldıran Campaign, Bingöl was incorporated into Ottoman territory and attached to the Diyarbakır Eyalet. During the Ottoman period, Bingöl developed a tribal-based administrative structure and became an important stop node along trade routes.

• 16th and 17th centuries: Although under central Ottoman authority, Bingöl remained a region densely populated by Turkmen and Kurdish tribes.
• 19th century: As part of the Tanzimat reforms, the Ottoman state implemented administrative changes in the region and attached Bingöl to the Bitlis Vilayet.

Republican Period and Present

• Early Republican Years (1923 – 1936): After the founding of the Republic of Türkiye, Bingöl was administered as a district under Elazığ and attained provincial status on 4 January 1936.
• 1950s – 1980s: Agriculture and animal husbandry were encouraged, but large-scale emigration occurred due to economic factors.
• 1990s and Beyond: Although security issues were experienced in the 1990s, development projects accelerated from the 2000s onward. The 2003 Bingöl Earthquake caused extensive destruction, but reconstruction efforts proceeded rapidly.

Geographical Structure

Bingöl is a mountainous and rugged city located in the Upper Euphrates Section of the Eastern Anatolia Region. It is bordered by Muş to the east, Tunceli and Elazığ to the west, Erzurum and Erzincan to the north, and Diyarbakır to the south. The provincial center is situated at an elevation of 1,172 meters and possesses a rich geographical structure characterized by extensive plateaus, mountains, rivers, and lakes.

Landforms

Bingöl has a total area of 8,253 km², approximately 80 percent of which is mountainous, 10 percent plateau, and 10 percent plain. High mountains, broad plateaus, and valleys define the region’s general topography. The Bingöl Mountains, reaching 3,195 meters, are the highest point in the province and remain covered in snow for extended periods, especially during winter months. The Satan Mountains, Karlıova Mountains, and Sülbüs Mountain near Kiğı district are other significant elevations.

The plains of Bingöl are important areas for agriculture and animal husbandry. Genç Plain is the largest plain in the province and holds significant importance for agricultural activity. Muş Plain lies to the east of Bingöl, while Karlıova Plain stands out as a vast flat area primarily used for animal husbandry. In addition to the plains, extensive plateaus shape the natural landscape of the province. Çiçektepe Plateau, Rose hip Plateau, and Kabaçayır Plateau are like areas used by nomadic herders during write months.

Rivers and Lakes

Bingöl is a province rich in water resources, hosting numerous rivers and lakes. The Murat River, one of the main tributaries of the Euphrates, flows from the east of Bingöl and constitutes the region’s most important water source. Peri Stream originates in the Munzur Mountains and flows through Tunceli into the Keban Dam, carrying significant potential for irrigation and hydroelectric production. Göynük Creek is one of the rivers within Bingöl’s boundaries.

Lakes and dams are also important natural features in the province. Karlıova Turna Lake is the largest lake in the region and attracts attention for its natural beauty. Kiğı Dam and Lake is a reservoir created for hydroelectric power generation. Sülbüs Lake lies at the foot of Sülbüs Mountain and is one of the areas attracting visitors for nature tourism.

Climate

The general climate in Bingöl is continental, with cold and snowy winters and hot, dry summers. Winter temperatures can drop as low as -30°C, and especially the district of Karlıova stands out as one of Türkiye’s regions with the longest snow cover. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C, with significant differences between day and night temperatures.

Annual average precipitation ranges between 800 and 1,200 mm, with the highest rainfall occurring in spring and autumn months. Due to the continental climate, summers are dry while winters experience heavy snow precipitation. Because of these climatic conditions, agriculture focuses primarily on hardy cereal crops and animal husbandry.

Vegetation and Natural Life

Bingöl features a combination of steppe and forest ecosystems. Forested areas cover approximately 30 percent of the province, with the densest forests located in Kiğı, Genç, and Karlıova districts. Oak, pine, and fir trees are among the dominant species. In lower elevation areas, steppe vegetation prevails, and during summer months, yellow grasslands and wild herbs spread across vast areas.

Bingöl is also rich in biological diversity biodiversity. Wild species such as vaşak, brown bear, wolf, wild goat, jackal, fox, and pig inhabit the region. Additionally, along the Murat River and Peri Stream, waterfowl such as herons, wild ducks, and various aquatic birds can be observed. The high plateaus in mountainous areas are also suitable for beekeeping, and Bingöl honey is known as one of Türkiye’s highest quality honeys.

Administrative Structure

Bingöl Province consists of 8 districts, 5 towns, and 325 villages.

Districts: Center, Adaklı, Genç, Karlıova, Kiğı, Solhan, Yayladere, Yedisu

Population and Demographics

According to the 2023 Address Based Population Registration System results, Bingöl’s total population is 285,655. Of this, 189,424 reside in urban areas and 96,231 in rural areas. The urban population ratio is 66.31 percent and the rural population ratio is 33.69 percent.

The population of the provincial center is 172,007, and the overall population density of Bingöl is 34 people per km². The largest district by population is the central district, while the smallest is Kiğı. By area, the largest district is the central district and the smallest is Yayladere.

Demographic data shows that the 0–15 age age group constitutes 24.96 percent of the total population, the 15–64 age group constitutes 66.94 percent, and the population aged 65 and over constitutes 8.08 percent.

The annual population growth rate in the province is measured at 10.9 percent, while Bingöl’s net migration rate is calculated at -10.70 percent. This situation indicates high levels of outward migration and that a portion of the population has relocated to other regions. Particularly notable is the migration trend from rural areas to urban centers and environment provinces.

Economy

The Bingöl economy is based on agriculture, animal husbandry, industry, and trade sectors. Traditionally dominated by agriculture and animal husbandry, the province has recently experienced economic building diversification through the growth of industry and trade.

Agriculture and Animal Husbandry

Bingöl possesses significant potential for agriculture and animal husbandry due to its extensive farmland and fertile pastures. Crops such as wheat, barley, maize, and forage plants are cultivated, with alfalfa and silage maize production holding a prominent place in the local economy. Moreover, Bingöl holds the highest share in Türkiye’s TRB1 region for cereal and plant-based production production.

Animal husbandry is one of the foundational pillars of Bingöl’s economy. Large and small livestock farming is widespread, with milk production and livestock breeding serving as major livelihood sources. With the increasing prevalence of Culture breeds and crossbred cattle, productivity in animal husbandry is being targeted for improvement. Bingöl is also notable for its beekeeping activities and contributes significantly to the region’s total honey production.

Industry and Trade

Industry has been one of the fastest-growing sectors in Bingöl in recent years. The number of enterprises showing development in food, textile, furniture, and animal product sectors is increasing. The Organized Industrial Zone (OSB) is undergoing expansion, and production capacity has been enhanced through new investments.

One of the largest investments in Bingöl is the dairy products factory built by SÜTAŞ. This facility supports the animal husbandry sector by providing economic benefits to producers and making a major contribution to regional development. Additionally, small industrial sites operating in the province create important employment opportunities for tradespeople and artisans, injecting vitality into the local economy.

Tourism

Bingöl possesses tourism potential due to its natural beauty and thermal resources.

• Bingöl Floating Islands: This natural wonder located in Solhan district consists of small islands that move on the water surface.
• Kös Thermal Baths: The thermal waters, known as a healing source, are believed to be beneficial for rheumatism and skin diseases.
• Çır Waterfall: A natural attraction that draws visitors during summer months.
• Buban Caves: Known as one of Bingöl’s oldest settlement areas.

Culture

Bingöl stands out for its rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life.

• Folk Dances: Traditional folk dances such as “Bingöl Halayı” and “Kurdish Govend” are performed.
• Handicrafts: Carpet and kilim weaving hold an important place.
• Legends and Folklore: “Bingöl Tales” and “Bingöl Legends” are passed down from generation to generation.

Culinary Culture

Bingöl cuisine is known for its traditional Anatolian flavors based on meat and dough preparations.

• Gömme: A dish similar to stuffed meatballs but cooked by boiling.
• Kete: A pastry commonly consumed during breakfast.
• Lor Dolması: A special type of stuffed dish made with lor cheese and various spices.
• Kaburga Dolması: A dish prepared for special occasions such as weddings and holidays.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Bingöl is located on key routes connecting Eastern Anatolia with other regions.

• Road Network: Road connections link Bingöl to provinces such as Elazığ and Erzurum.
• Air Transport: Since its opening in 2013, Bingöl Airport provides direct connections to major cities such as Istanbul and Ankara.
• Railway: Bingöl is situated near the main railway lines of Eastern Anatolia.