Erzurum Ilıca (Aziziye) Thermal Spas

The natural geothermal spring located in the Aziziye district of Erzurum is formed when underground waters descend along fault lines, heat up, and resurface. Due to its approximate distance of 15 km from the provincial center, the facility includes open and closed restaurants, a mosque, meeting and relaxation lounges, an open parking area, and a hotel section comprising 36 rooms and 5 suites. It covers an area of 11,463 dönüm.

History

Erzurum province is rich in thermal springs. Among the most well-known spas in the region, Aziziye (Ilıca) stands out due to its proximity to the city center. According to historical sources, Ilıca was located west of Theodosiopolis, near Elegeia, during the Byzantine and Armenian periods. During the Seljuk era, some of Ilıca’s thermal springs were opened to public use and operated as bathhouses.

During the Ottoman period, Yavuz Sultan Selim and Kanuni Sultan Süleyman stayed in this area, used the spa, and regarded it as significant. In the 16th century, writers such as Matrakçı Nasuh and Aşık Ahmet mentioned Ilıca’s thermal baths and depicted them in miniature and written works. Evliya Çelebi visited Ilıca during his 1645 journey to Erzurum and described maintenance efforts carried out there. The spa, which underwent periodic maintenance since 1964, was comprehensively renovated in 2005 and began operating as a thermal facility.

Natural and Physical Characteristics

The Erzurum Ilıca (Aziziye) thermal area lies within the high and rugged topography of Eastern Anatolia, with elevations ranging between approximately 1,800 and 2,000 meters. The region has developed along valleys shaped by river erosion and along fault lines. Ilıca and its surroundings are situated on tectonic zones associated with the Eastern Anatolia Fault System. This tectonic structure plays a decisive role in the ascent of thermal waters to the surface. Geologically, the area is dominated by volcanic rocks (andesite, basalt), alongside sedimentary units of varying ages and recent alluvial deposits. These rocks and fault zones enable underground waters to descend to greater depths, become heated, and enrich in minerals, contributing to the characteristic properties of Ilıca’s thermal waters.

Hydrogeochemical Properties

The hot waters emerging at Erzurum Ilıca Thermal Spa are formed as underground waters circulate along regional tectonic fractures and faults, gaining heat and mineral content at depth. The source water temperature is approximately 38°C to 39°C, indicating its thermal characteristics. Ilıca thermal waters are distinguished by their sodium-bicarbonate composition and are classified as mineral waters.

Analyses conducted by the Ministry of Health have shown that these waters provide supportive effects for musculoskeletal disorders such as rheumatic conditions, joint and spinal problems, fibromyalgia, and cervical and lumbar disc herniations. It is also known that they have beneficial effects on skin diseases, digestive system disorders, certain women’s health issues, as well as stress, fatigue, and sleep problems. Ilıca thermal waters can be used both for bathing cures and drinking cures, thereby embodying a significant thermal resource whose hydrogeochemical properties are directly applied for health purposes.

Erzurum Ilıca (Aziziye) Thermal Baths (AA)

Recreational and Touristic Use

Due to its thermal water potential, the Erzurum Ilıca Thermal Baths serve as a major attraction for the region, both in terms of health tourism and recreational use. The thermal pools, baths, and accommodation facilities within the spa area serve domestic visitors for most of the year. Particularly in Erzurum, where cold climatic conditions prevail, the warmth of the thermal waters enables year-round recreational use.

The Ilıca Spa is not only chosen by visitors seeking thermal treatment but also by those seeking rest, stress relief, and escape from daily fatigue. The region’s natural environment and the soothing effects of the thermal waters make the spa an attractive destination for short-term stays and day visits. Moreover, its proximity to the city center of Erzurum enhances accessibility and contributes to the development of thermal tourism. With these features, Ilıca Thermal Baths constitute an important tourist area that integrates health-based tourism with recreational activities.

Warning: The content in this article is provided solely for general encyclopedic informational purposes. The information here must not be used for diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Before making any decisions regarding health matters, you must consult a physician or qualified healthcare professional. The author of this article and KÜRE Encyclopedia accept no responsibility for any consequences arising from the use of this information for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.