Hafik Lake

Hafik Lake, one of the karstic areas in Türkiye’s Central Anatolia Region, is a natural freshwater lake located within the boundaries of Sivas Province. The lake is the subject of research and study due to its geomorphological features, archaeological findings, ecological diversity, and its status as a wetland.

Among the settlement examples shaped by water resources, Hafik Lake has yielded artifacts dating back to prehistoric periods at the Pılır Höyük site. This settlement has been documented as one of the earliest examples of above-water habitation within Türkiye’s borders. The lake is also classified as a wetland under national protection and nominated for international conservation programs.

Hafik Lake (

Geographical Location and Physical Characteristics

Hafik Lake is situated 3 kilometers northwest of the Hafik district in Sivas Province, within Türkiye’s Central Anatolia Region. The lake lies approximately 36–40 kilometers from the provincial center and is located along the Sivas-Erzincan E-88 highway. With an average elevation of 1,290 meters and a surface area of about 1 km², it is one of the largest natural lakes in the region. The lake formed in a depression zone containing soluble gypsum rocks of karstic origin. Locally, it is also known as “Büyük Göl” (Big Lake).

Hydrographic Structure and Water Sources

The water of Hafik Lake is fed by surface sources such as Sultanpınarı and Kapaklı, as well as groundwater emerging from the lakebed. Excess water drains into the Kızılırmak River via the Köy Irmağı stream, classifying the lake as part of an open basin system. Its average depth is 6 meters, with a maximum depth of approximately 7 meters.

The lake reaches its highest water level in spring; significant declines in water level are observed by late summer due to reduced rainfall. The lake consists of three distinct basins, which, during dry years, separate into distinct water bodies. In spring, these basins reunite into a single water mass.

Geological and Ecological Features

The lakebed is covered with mud and surrounded by extensive reed beds. Rich in sulfate salts, the lake supports a diverse freshwater ecosystem. Due to its natural structure, it is one of the areas where biological diversity has been preserved. Around the lake, tree species such as pine, oak, and poplar grow alongside shrubs including rosehip and barberry (Berberis vulgaris). This vegetation provides a natural habitat and breeding ground for birds.

Pılır Höyük Settlement

Pılır Höyük, located within Hafik Lake, demonstrates that the region was inhabited during prehistoric times. Archaeological excavations at the site have uncovered remains of lake dwellings built on wooden piles. This structural system represents the first and only known example in Türkiye of the “palafitte” type of above-water settlement, previously identified in Swiss lakes such as Lake Zurich and the Alpine lakes.

Among the findings are pottery fragments from the Neolithic, Chalcolithic, and Early Bronze Age periods; small flint arrowheads; obsidian (volcanic glass) microliths; hand mills; mallets; stone idols carved from sandstone; and animal bones.

Biological Diversity

Aquatic Life

The lake attracts attention for the diversity of life it supports within its freshwater ecosystem. Fish species found in the lake include carp, grass carp, crucian carp, tench, freshwater bream, pike perch, bleak, gudgeon, and crayfish.

Bird Species and Wetland Status

Hafik Lake is among Türkiye’s 135 wetlands of international importance and is designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Approximately 150–200 bird species inhabit the lake and its surroundings. The principal bird species recorded in and around the lake include:

Aquatic Birds Flying Over Hafik Lake (Republic of Türkiye Sivas Governorship)

Recreational and Tourist Use

Hafik Lake is one of Sivas Province’s leading nature-based recreational areas. The lake’s surroundings feature picnic zones, camping areas, and facilities suitable for water sports. Visitors can engage in nature-integrated activities such as sea biking, camping while reading, birdwatching, and nature walks accompanied by the region’s native vegetation.

Visitors Walking (Republic of Türkiye Sivas Governorate)

Conservation Status and Projects

In 2020, Hafik Lake was officially registered by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change as a “Natural Site – Qualified Natural Conservation Area” and a “Sustainable Conservation and Controlled Use Area.” The registration process for its designation as a “Strictly Protected Sensitive Area” is ongoing. It is also expected to be designated under the Ramsar Convention for international protection.

Under a project led by the Sivas Provincial Special Administration, nature-compatible walking trails, landscape arrangements, picnic areas, rest zones, and visitor-restricted areas are being constructed around the lake. The project aims to ensure controlled and conscious use of the area without damaging its natural structure.

Planned Project Details (Republic of Türkiye Sivas Governorate)