Burdur (Province)

Burdur is a city located in the southwestern part of Türkiye, within the inland areas of the Mediterranean Region, place and situated within the Lakes Region. city is distinguished by its natural beauty, historical heritage, and cultural richness, covering an area of 6,883 km² and situated at an average elevation of 950 meters. Its position as a transitional zone between the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Central Anatolia Regions has endowed Burdur with strategic a location. Natural boundaries encircle the city: the Burdur Lake and Karakuş Mountains to the north, Kuyucak and Dedegöl Mountains to the east, Acıgöl and Eşeler Mountains to the west, such as giving it a distinctive city rugged land topography.

Throughout history, Burdur has been home to numerous civilizations, with its history extending back to 7000 BCE. Archaeological excavations at the Hacılar, Kuruçay, and Höyücek mounds demonstrate continuous human settlement in the region since the Neolithic period. During antiquity, the city was part of the Pisidia region and became one of the significant settlements during the Roman and Byzantine eras. Strategically located along trade routes during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, Burdur attained provincial status in 1923 with the proclamation of the Republic.

Burdur holds significant potential for natural tourism due to its lakes, highland pastures, and mountains. Water sources such as Burdur Lake and Salda Lake stand out for their ecological diversity and tourist appeal. The city experiences a blend of continental and Mediterranean climatic characteristics, with hot and dry summers and cold, rainy winters. Burdur’s economy is based on agriculture, animal husbandry, and industry, and it is particularly known for the production of marble, rose, and lavender cultivation.

History

Burdur’s history spans back to the 7000s BCE. Archaeological excavations have shown that the region has been continuously inhabited since the Neolithic Age. Particularly, excavations at the Hacılar, Kuruçay, and Höyücek mounds have revealed the presence of an advanced agricultural community during this period. Hacılar Höyüğü is recognized as one of the most important Neolithic centers, known for its pot pot production and main goddess cult.

Throughout history, Burdur and its surroundings have come under the dominion of many civilizations. In the 2000s BCE, the region is believed to have been controlled by the Hittites. Following the decline of the Hittite Empire, the Phrygians and Lydians gained control over the area; after the Persian conquest of the Lydian Kingdom in the 6th century BCE, the region became part of the Persian Empire. During Alexander the Great’s campaign in Anatolia in 334 BCE, Burdur and its surroundings came under Macedonian rule, but after Alexander’s death, it passed under the control of the Seleucids and later the Bergama Kingdom.

With the annexation of the Kingdom of Pergamon to Rome in 133 BCE, Burdur became part of the Roman Empire and was included within the region of Pisidia. During the Roman period, ancient cities such as Sagalassos, Kremna, and Olbasa became major settlement centers. Urban development progressed, roads and aqueducts were constructed, and the region’s commercial and agricultural capacity expanded. After the Roman Empire’s division in 395 CE, Burdur remained under Roman (Byzantine) authority, during which numerous church churches and religious building were built under the influence of Christianity.

Antonine Fountain, Ancient City of Sagalassos (https://www.kulturportali.gov.tr/turkiye/burdur/gezilecekyer/sagalassos-antik-kenti)

Following the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, the Seljuk Turks began spreading across Anatolia, and Burdur was incorporated into Seljuk territories around 1075. After the decline of the Seljuk state, the region came under the administration of the Hamitoğulları Beylik and was annexed to Ottoman lands in 1391 during the reign of Bayezid. During the Ottoman period, Burdur became an important center along trade routes and developed economically through leatherworking and textile production.

In the late Ottoman period, Burdur became a district center in the 19th century and was attached to the Konya Vilayet. The city was severely damaged by a major earthquake in 1914 and suffered an Italian occupation from 1919 to 1921, but after the War of Independence, it was reintegrated into the territory of the Republic of Türkiye. With the proclamation of the Republic in 1923, Burdur attained provincial status and has since emerged as a city noted for its developing industry, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.

Geography

Burdur is located in southwestern Türkiye, within the inland areas of the Mediterranean Region. Situated within the area known as the Lakes Region, Burdur forms a transitional zone between the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Central Anatolia Regions. The city is bordered by Isparta and Afyon to the east, Antalya to the south, and Denizli and Muğla provinces to the west. Burdur covers an area of 6,883 km² with an average elevation of 950 meters.

Landforms

Burdur’s surface features consist of distinct areas: mountains, plains, and highland pastures. Of the province’s land area, 60.6% is mountainous, 19% consists of plains, 17.6% is rugged terrain, and 2.7% comprises highland pastures. The city is surrounded by extensions of the Taurus Mountains, with the Boncuk Mountains, Elmalı Mountain, and Katrancık Mountain to the south, the Kuyucak and Dedegöl Mountains to the east, the Burdur Lake and Karakuş Mountain to the north, and the Acıgöl and Eşeler Mountains to the west forming its boundaries.

The highest point in Burdur is Kızılca Mountain at an elevation of 2,598 meters. Other significant elevations include Akdağ at 2,276 meters, Kestel Mountain at 2,336 meters, and Eşeler Mountain at 2,254 meters.

Burdur’s flat areas are primarily located along the edges of valleys and plains. The agriculturally significant Bucak, Tefenni, Gölhisar, and Yeşilova plains are notable for their fertile soil soils.

Highland pastures occupy extensive areas in the province. Pastures with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,200 meters serve as vital areas for animal husbandry. Areas such as Aziziye, Akdağ, Kırkpınar, Koca Yayla, and Eşeler Yaylası are known for their active pastoral culture.

Rivers

Burdur has no major rivers, but it is rich in numerous small streams and tea watercourses. The majority of these feed the region’s lakes. The most important rivers are:

• Alakır Creek: Originating from the Eşeler Mountains, it flows through the valley between Tefenni and Yeşilova districts and continues into Antalya’s boundaries.
• Burdur Creek: A 25-kilometer-long river fed by the İnsuyu and Gökpınar springs, which empties into Burdur Lake.
• Kıravgaz Creek: One of the largest rivers in the central district, emerging from beneath the Kıravgaz Mountain and nourishing agricultural lands along its 45-kilometer course.
• Dalaman Creek: An important water source originating in the Gölhisar basin and flowing toward the Muğla-Fethiye border before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea.
• Onaç Creek: One of the key rivers for Burdur’s irrigation systems, flowing into Kestel Lake.

In addition to these, numerous smaller streams such as Askeriye Creek, Çeltikçi Creek, Salda Creek, Armut Creek, and Tefenni Karamanlı Creek play significant roles in the region’s irrigation network.

Lakes

Burdur, due to its location within the Lakes Region, is home to numerous natural lakes. These lakes enhance ecological diversity and form the backbone of the region’s natural beauty. Burdur’s most important lakes include:

• Burdur Lake: Covering an area of 180–186 km², Burdur Lake is the province’s largest water source. Of tectonic origin, it contains saline water and is rich in bird species, serving as a habitat for the endangered white-headed duck.
• Salda Lake: Located in the Yeşilova district, Salda Lake is one of Turkey’s cleanest and deepest lakes. With a surface area of 44 km², its freshwater and white sandy shores attract considerable attention.

Salda Lake (https://saldagolu.gov.tr/saldagolu/galeri.html)

• Yarışlı Lake: Located within the boundaries of Yeşilova district, this lake covers an area of 2,000 decares and is significant for birdwatching.
• Karataş Lake: Situated near Tefenni district, this lake is surrounded by agricultural lands and reed beds, supporting various aquatic birds and fish species.
• Gölhisar Lake: Located in Gölhisar district at an elevation of 1,000 meters above sea level, surrounding areas are used for agricultural activities.
• Kestel Lake: Once a lake, this area has largely been drained and is now used as agricultural land.
• Ambahan Lake: A marshland-type lake privately owned by an individual.

Burdur’s lakes not only serve as vital water resources but also play a crucial role in the region’s ecosystem ecological balance and tourism potential. Particularly, Burdur and Salda Lakes serve as central attractions for both local people and tourists.

Climate

Although located within the Mediterranean Region, Burdur exhibits transitional climatic characteristics between Mediterranean and continental climates due to its elevation and location. Generally, summers are hot and dry, while winters are cold and rainy.

Burdur’s high elevation results in lower temperatures compared to coastal areas nearby. During Summer months, temperatures can reach 30–35°C, while during winter months, temperatures often fall below 0°C. In winter, time periods are accompanied by snow snowfall.

Precipitation patterns are irregular, with annual averages ranging between 400–600 mm. The highest rainfall occurs in winter and spring, while summer months are typically dry. Burdur Lake and other water sources play a vital role in maintaining the region’s climatic balance. Additionally, due to its mountainous topography, local microclimates are observed, with higher elevations experiencing lower temperatures and greater precipitation.

Vegetation

Burdur lies in the transition zone between Mediterranean and continental climates, and its plant vegetation reflects characteristics of both. Generally, the province features forested areas, maquis communities, and steppe steppe vegetation.

Forested Areas

Burdur’s topography and climatic conditions have allowed the development of forested areas in certain regions. Forests are concentrated primarily in higher elevations, where rugged and mountainous terrain dominates. Approximately 30% of the province’s land is covered by forests. The following tree species are common in these forested areas:

• Stone Pine (Pinus brutia): Commonly found between 700–1,000 meters elevation.
• Austrian Pine (Pinus nigra): Predominant at higher elevations, especially above 1,000 meters.
• Juniper (Juniperus spp.): Juniper species thrive on limestone soils and rocky areas and are widespread in Burdur’s highlands.
• Oak (Quercus spp.): Oak species, which spread across dry and stony terrain, contribute significantly to forested areas throughout the province.

Maquis and Steppe Vegetation

In lowland areas and around lakes, maquis communities are shaped by Mediterranean influences. These areas feature low shrubs and bushes. Common maquis species include:

• Christ’s Thorn (Paliurus spina-christi)
• Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo)
• Oleander (Nerium oleander)
• Carob Tree (Ceratonia siliqua)
• Strawberry Tree (Arbutus andrachne)

Steppe vegetation dominates Burdur’s plains and plateaus. Due to irregular rainfall and summer droughts, drought-resistant herbaceous plants and low shrubs are prevalent. Common species in these areas include geven (Astragalus spp.), oregano (Thymus spp.), yavşan otu (Artemisia spp.), and sütleğen (Euphorbia spp.).

Endemic and Rare Plants

Burdur hosts several endemic and rare plant species due to its diverse ecological conditions. Particularly in Tefenni, Altınyayla (Dirmil), and the Lakes Region, important plant species for the global flora are found. Some include:

• Tefenni Purple Vetch (Lathyrus tefennicus)
• Pisidian Nonea (Nonea pisidica)
• Pisidian Sage (Salvia pisidica)
• Astragalus dirmilensis (in the Altınyayla region)
• Cephalaria dirmilensis
• Cirsium dirmilense

Burdur’s vegetation, shaped by its lakes and mountains, exhibits great diversity. The natural vegetation, intertwined with agriculture and animal husbandry, significantly influences the province’s economic and ecological structure.

Fauna

Burdur supports a rich natural habitat due to its lakes, mountains, and forested areas. Its geographical position, forming a transition between the Mediterranean and Central Anatolia Regions, enables the coexistence of diverse ecosystems. This diversity has fostered a wide range of wildlife in Burdur.

Bird Species

Burdur is particularly significant for birdwatching. Wetland areas such as Burdur Lake, Salda Lake, and Yarışlı Lake serve as vital resting and nutrition sites for migratory birds. Burdur Lake, home to the endangered white-headed duck (Oxyura leucocephala), is internationally recognized as an important bird area.

Main bird species observed in Burdur include:

• White-headed Duck (Oxyura leucocephala)
• Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus)
• Ferruginous Duck (Aythya ferina)
• Common Coot (Fulica atra)
• Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)
• Ruddy Shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea)
• Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis)
• Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)
• Great Egret (Ardea alba)
• Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)

These bird species are primarily observed around wetlands, with some residing year-round and others visiting during migration migration periods.

Mammals

Various mammal animals inhabit Burdur’s forested and mountainous areas, particularly in highland and rural zones where wildlife is abundant. Major mammal species in the province include:

• Wolf (Canis lupus)
• Jackal (Canis aureus)
• Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
• Stone Marten (Martes foina)
• Red Squirrel (Sciurus anomalus)
• European Hare (Lepus europaeus)
• Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)

These species primarily inhabit forested and mountainous areas. Predators such as wolf, jackal, and fox play essential roles in maintaining wildlife balance.

Reptiles and Amphibians

Reptile species are common in Burdur’s hot and dry areas, particularly in rocky and shrubland zones. Common species include:

• Steppe Lizard (Lacerta strigata)
• Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis)
• Greek Tortoise (Testudo graeca)
• Levantine Viper (Vipera lebetina)
• Montpellier Snake (Malpolon monspessulanus)

Around wetlands, various frog and newt species are found. Species such as the grass snake (Natrix natrix) are also present around Salda Lake and Burdur Lake.

Protected Areas and Wildlife

Several areas have been designated as protected zones to conserve Burdur’s rich fauna. These areas play a critical importance in maintaining ecological balance and protecting endangered species. Major wildlife protection areas include:

• Ağlasun-Çamova Wildlife Protection Area
• Burdur Lake Wildlife Protection Area
• Karakaş Lake Wildlife Protection Area

These areas are specifically designated to protect habitats of wild goats, raptors, and waterfowl.

Burdur’s fauna, supported by wetlands from its lakes and natural habitats formed by mountains and forests, exhibits significant biological diversity. This richness enhances the region’s ecological importance and makes it an attractive destination for wildlife observers.

Population

Burdur’s population has change fluctuated over time due to various factors within historical process. According to 2024 data, the province’s total population is 275,826. The majority of the population resides in urban centers and districts, while the rural population continues to decline.

Population Distribution and Density

Burdur covers an area of 6,883 km² with a population density of approximately 40 people/km², lower than the national average. The population is relatively evenly distributed across districts, though Bucak district holds the largest population.

Main districts of Burdur and their approximate populations are:

• Burdur Center: 100,000
• Bucak: 65,000
• Gölhisar: 25,000
• Yeşilova: 15,000
• Tefenni: 12,000
• Ağlasun: 10,000
• Çavdır: 9,000
• Karamanlı: 8,000
• Altınyayla: 7,000
• Kemer: 6,000
• Çeltikçi: 5,000

Demographic Structure

Regarding migration, it is known that migrants from The Balkans and Caucasus settled in the region especially in the early 20th century.

Burdur is among the provinces with higher education levels, and its youth population ratio is slightly below the national average. While rural areas dependent on agriculture and animal husbandry show low population growth, greater population concentration is observed in districts and the provincial center where industry and service sectors have developed.

Migration Patterns

In recent years, Burdur has been among the provinces with net population outflow. Particularly, the youth migrate to large cities for education and employment opportunities. Burdur residents migrating to Istanbul, Antalya, İzmir, and Ankara have caused demographic shifts in the province. However, during summer months and holiday seasons, temporary population increases occur due to the tourist appeal of areas such as Salda Lake.

Burdur’s population structure continues to evolve under the influence of economic, geographic, and sociocultural factors. Developments in industry and education will be key factors determining future population distribution and growth rates.

Economy

Burdur’s economy is based on agriculture, animal husbandry, industry, and mining. Its geographical location and climatic conditions are key factors shaping its economic structure. Burdur is a city with economic diversity, combining traditional agriculture and animal husbandry with a growing industrial sector.

Agriculture and Animal Husbandry

Although Burdur does not have vast agricultural lands, irrigated plains provide an important source of livelihood. Major agricultural products in the province include:

• Cereals: Wheat, barley, maize
• Legumes: Chickpeas, beans
• Industrial Crops: Sugar beet, sunflower
• Vegetables and Fruits: Tomato, pepper, grape, apple, pear

Burdur is one of Turkey’s most important centers for rose and lavender production. Together with Isparta, the region’s rose cultivation and rose oil industry hold significant economic importance.

Animal husbandry plays a vital role in Burdur’s economy. Both small and large livestock farming are widespread, making the region one of the country’s key centers for milk and meat production. Burdur is among Turkey’s provinces with the highest milk yield, thanks to its dairy production and processing facilities. Additionally, Burdur cheese and dairy products hold an important place in the regional economy.

Industry and Mining

The industrial sector is one of Burdur’s developing economic areas. Particularly, the marble and stone processing industry is among the province’s most significant industrial activities. Burdur is one of Turkey’s largest marble production centers, with numerous marble quarries across the province. Marble extracted from Burdur is exported both domestically and internationally.

Main industrial sectors in Burdur include:

• Marble and stone processing industry
• Dairy and dairy products industry
• Food processing plants
• Textile and leather industry
• Agricultural machinery production

The Burdur Sugar Factory is one of the province’s largest industrial establishments. Additionally, flour mills, animal feed plants, and food processing facilities are present in the province.

Trade and Service Sector

Burdur’s trade sector has developed in relation to industry and agricultural production. Particularly, trade in animal feed and dairy products is widespread. Burdur expands its economic activities by establishing commercial links with neighboring large provinces. close with Antalya, Isparta, and Denizli contributes to increasing Burdur’s trade volume.

The tourism sector is also gaining increasing importance in Burdur’s economy. Salda Lake, Sagalassos Ancient City, and the Burdur Archaeology Museum are key drivers of tourism revenue. Particularly, with growing emphasis on nature and cultural tourism, Burdur is attracting increasing interest from both domestic and foreign tourists.

Economic Development and Future Projections

Burdur’s economy, while rooted in industry and agriculture, is diversifying through the growth of tourism and service sectors. Organized industrial zones and marble processing facilities are among the main factors supporting economic growth. In the coming years, modernization of agricultural production, increased industrial investment, and developments in tourism are expected to further strengthen Burdur’s economy.

Culture and Tourism

Burdur possesses significant tourism potential due to its natural beauty, historical heritage, and cultural values. Its location within the Lakes Region, its hosting of ancient cities, and its suitability for nature tourism make it an attractive tourist destination. In recent years, tourism has rapidly expanded, particularly due to attractions such as Salda Lake and Sagalassos Ancient City.

Nature and Ecotourism

Burdur stands out for its natural beauty. With its lakes, highland pastures, and mountains, it is a major center for nature tourism. Particularly due to its location in the lake region, activities such as birdwatching and nature hiking are common.

• Salda Lake: One of Turkey’s cleanest and deepest lakes, Salda Lake attracts attention with its turquoise waters and white sandy shores. Its geological structure and mineral-rich waters, resembling features of Mars’s surface, have drawn scientific interest. It is a popular destination for camping, photography, and nature walks.
• Burdur Lake: As a habitat for the endangered white-headed duck, Burdur Lake is an internationally significant wetland of great importance for birdwatching.
• Yarışlı Lake and Karataş Lake: Important areas for nature lovers due to their role as stopover points for migratory birds.
• İnsuyu Cave: One of Turkey’s first caves opened to tourism, this cave near Burdur city center is notable for its stalactites and stalagmites.

İnsuyu Cave (Photo: Meryem Şentürk Çoban)

Historical and Cultural Tourism

Burdur has been home to numerous civilizations from antiquity to the present. The ancient cities in the region make Burdur a rich destination for historical and culture tourism.

• Sagalassos Ancient City: Located in Ağlasun district and one of the most important cities of Pisidia, Sagalassos features magnificent structures from the Roman period. The Antonine Fountain, theater, and agora are among its most notable remains.
• Kremna Ancient City: Located within the boundaries of Bucak district, Kremna is an ancient city known for its Roman-era ruins.
• Kibyra Ancient City: Located in Gölhisar district, Kibyra is known for its massive theater and mosaics. It is listed on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List.
• Burdur Archaeology Museum: This museum displays artifacts excavated from Hacılar, Kuruçay, and Höyücek sites and is among Turkey’s most important archaeology museums. Particularly, Neolithic-era artifacts attract significant attention.

Cultural and Traditional Tourism

Burdur also draws attention through its unique cultural values. Regional folk dances, handicrafts, and kitchen culture enhance the province’s tourist appeal.

• Burdur Regional Folk Dances: As part of the Teke Region, Burdur is known for folk dances such as “Teke Zortlatması.”
• Regional Handicrafts: Traditional crafts such as kilim weaving, goat-hair felt making, and coppersmithing are part of Burdur’s cultural heritage.
• Burdur Cuisine: Burdur kebab, walnut paste, Burdur pide, and poppy-seed desserts are among the flavors reflecting the province’s culinary culture.

Administrative Structure

Burdur’s Governor is Ali Orkun ERCENGİZ and Burdur’s Provincial Governor is Tülay BAYDAR BİLGİHAN.

Districts

Burdur’s districts are:

• Ağlasun
• Altınyayla
• Bucak
• Çavdır
• Çeltikçi
• Gölhisar
• Karamanlı
• Kemer
• Tefenni
• Yeşilova