Kahramanmaraş (Province)

Kahramanmaraş is one of the historic and culturally rich important cities in Türkiye’s Mediterranean Region, covering an area of approximately 14,525 square kilometers and ranking among the country’s medium-sized provinces. Kahramanmaraş has been home to various civilizations throughout history and consequently hosts diverse cultural elements. City is particularly known for its ice cream, copper smithing art and rich cuisine.

Etimology

There are differing views regarding the origin and meaning of the name Maraş. According to the ancient historian Herodotus, the city was founded by the Hittite commander Maraj, after whom it was named “Maraj.” In antiquity, the city was known as “Markasi”; when the Roman Empire took control of the region in the 1st century AD, it was renamed “Germanikeia” in honor of Emperor Caligula. During the Byzantine period, it was referred to as “Marasion.”

After the Muslim conquest of the region, the city began to be called “Mer’aş,” a version adapted to the Arabic alphabet to conform with its orthographic rules. Since the Arabic alphabet lacks the letter “J,” the name underwent this transformation. Others claim that the name “Maraş” derives from the verb “Re’aşa,” meaning “to tremble.”

During the Ottoman period, following the establishment of the Dulkadiroğulları Beylik, the city was also known as “Zülkadir.” In the Republican era, due to its heroic resistance during the War of Independence, the city’s name was officially changed to “Kahramanmaraş” on 7 February 1973.

History

Prehistoric Period and Early Settlements

Research conducted in the Döngel Caves indicates that human settlement in the region began in the Upper Paleolithic Era and continued through the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age. During the Middle Bronze Age (2000–1500 BC), the region lay at a crucial caravan junction connecting Syria and Mesopotamia with other parts of Anatolia.

Hittites and Antiquity

Markasi (Maraş) was the center of Gurgum, one of the Hittite states established during the decline of the Hittite Empire. Gurgum remained under the influence of Urartu and Assyria during the period period. In the 7th century BC, Markasi suffered invasions by the Cimmerians and Scythians, later falling under Median and Persian rule, and finally coming under Macedonian control in 333 BC. The region changed hands repeatedly between the Kingdom of Pontus and Rome, ultimately becoming part of the Roman Empire, where its name was changed to Germanikeia.

Roman and Byzantine Periods

Following the establishment of a long-lasting kingdom in the region by the Roman general Lucullus, Pompey reincorporated Markasi into Roman territory in 64 BC. The city was renamed Germanikeia in honor of Emperor Caligula and was known as Marasion during the Byzantine era. The region, frequently subjected to Arab raids, changed hands often due to conflicts between the Byzantines and Arab forces.

Seljuk, Crusader, and Mamluk Periods

Anatolia became Turkified during the 11th and 12th centuries under Seljuks influence and came to be known by Westerners as “Türkiye” (Turcia). Maraş came under Seljuk control in 1079 and was subsequently ruled by the Danişmendids, Crusaders, the Kingdom of Cilician Armenia, the Ayyubids, and Mamluks.

In 1335, Dulkadiroğlu Bey Karaca, who seized Maraş, founded a large beylik with his son Halil Bey, encompassing Maraş, Besni, Malatya, Harput, and Elbistan. Maraş came under Dulkadiroğulları administration in 1339 and remained under their rule until 1515. In 1515, the Ottomans ended the Dulkadiroğulları Beylik and incorporated Maraş into their territories, linking it to the Zulkadiriye Eyalet in 1522.

Ottoman Period

After the beylik was annexed by the Ottomans in 1515, Maraş became a beylerbeylik encompassing the sanjaks of Malatya, Gaziantep, Zülkadriye, and Sümeysat, remaining an important province center. In the late Ottoman period, from 1866 onward, Maraş was attached to the Aleppo vilayet and reorganized as the Maraş sanjak, including the kazas of Elbistan, Göksün, Pazarcık, and Andırın. This district was bordered by the Sivas eyalet to the north, the Malatya sanjak to the east, the Aleppo center sanjak to the south, and the Adana vilayet to the southwest. The sanjak center was established at the foot of Ahır Dağı, 154 kilometers from the Aleppo provincial capital. The region consisted of a partially flat and mostly mountainous terrain.

In 1915, Maraş became an independent sanjak and from 1920 onward was elevated to a province with the districts of Andırın, Göksün, Elbistan, and Pazarcık. The districts of Afşin and Türkoğlu were added in 1944 and 1960 respectively.

National Struggle Period

After the Armistice of Mudros, Maraş was occupied by the British on 22 February 1919, but they soon withdrew and handed control to the French. The resistance against the French, initiated on 31 October 1919 under the leadership of Sütçü İmam, received widespread public support.

The Flag Incident on 27 November 1919 intensified opposition to the occupation. By 21 January 1920, the struggle in the city intensified with clashes between Arabs and Ruins. After a 22-day and 22-night resistance, the people of Maraş achieved a major victory, forcing the French to withdraw from the city on 11 February 1920.

Republican Period and Present Day

On 5 April 1925, the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye awarded Maraş the Independence Medal, and on 7 February 1973, the city’s name was officially changed to Kahramanmaraş. Throughout the 20th century, Kahramanmaraş underwent significant development in industry and agriculture, and today it has become one of the region’s most important industrial and trade centers.

Geography

Location and Boundaries

Kahramanmaraş is located in the northeastern part of Türkiye’s Mediterranean Region. It borders Sivas and Malatya to the north, Kayseri and Adana to the west, Osmaniye and Gaziantep to the south, and Adıyaman to the east. The city, situated at an elevation of 610 meters above Sea sea level, has historically served as a vital transportation hub. Its position at the intersection of roads connecting Kayseri, Sivas, Malatya, Besni, Gaziantep, Antakya and Adana strengthens its strategic significance.

Climate

The region exhibits characteristics of both Mediterranean and continental climates. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are cold and rainy. High temperatures are recorded during Summer months, and snowfall is particularly prevalent in higher elevations during winter.

Natural Resources

The Afşin-Elbistan lignite deposits are among Türkiye’s largest lignite reserves and play a critical role in energy production. Additionally, copper craftsmanship and wood artistry are well-developed traditional handicrafts, drawing on the region’s natural resources.

Demographic Structure

The population of Kahramanmaraş has varied over the years. According to the 2025 estimated Adress-Based Population Registration System (ADNKS) data, the province’s total population is projected at 1,134,105. This figure is calculated based on previous years’ population growth rates. With an area of 14,525 km², the population density is 78 persons per square kilometer.

Educational levels differ between rural and urban areas. Literacy rates are lower in rural areas, while education levels are higher in the city center. This situation is considered one of the factors encouraging migration from rural areas to the urban center.

Onikişubat is the most populous district of Kahramanmaraş, with a population of 436,385. Dulkadiroğlu district ranks second with 217,530 residents. Elbistan, with a population of 130,246, is the third most populous district. These three districts account for a significant portion of the city’s total population.

Finally, the 7.8 magnitude earthquake on 6 February 2023 caused extensive destruction in Kahramanmaraş and significantly affected population mobility. After the earthquake, many residents were forced to migration to other provinces and regions.

Districts and Populations

Kahramanmaraş consists of 11 districts. According to 2024 population data, the districts’ populations are as follows:

• Onikişubat: 436,385
• Dulkadiroğlu: 217,530
• Elbistan: 130,246
• Afşin: 78,836
• Türkoğlu: 78,047
• Pazarcık: 67,057
• Göksun: 49,576
• Andırın: 32,059
• Çağlayancerit: 22,498
• Nurhak: 11,824
• Ekinözü: 10,047

The city’s total population is recorded as 1,134,105.

Economy

Main Industries: Textile, food, metal processing, and energy sectors form the foundation of Kahramanmaraş’s economy.

Trade and Industry: Organized industrial zones and industrial facilities known for yarn and fabric production play a major role in the city’s economic structure.

Tourism: Kapıcam Nature Park, the ancient city mosaics of Germanicia, and historic inns attract tourists.

Culture, Art, and Tourism

Kahramanmaraş is one of Türkiye’s important cultural centers, known for its rich historical heritage, kitchen culture, and handicrafts. The city preserves its cultural values across generations through its traditional handicrafts, geographically distinctive products, and original flavors.

Geographical Indications and Regional Cuisine

Geographical indications are official certifications that define a product’s unique qualities, reputation, and origin. These certifications ensure the protection, promotion, and transmission of products produced according to specific production criteria. Kahramanmaraş’s rich culinary culture and traditional handicrafts include 30 products registered with geographical indications. Some of the most representative values reflecting Kahramanmaraş’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship are:

• Maraş Ice Cream: A famous ice cream with a distinctive firm texture, made with goat’s milk.
• Maraş Pepper: A geographically indicated pepper known for its unique aroma and spiciness.
• Maraş Tarhana: A traditional dish made from dried yogurt and wheat.
• Maraş Burma Bileziği: A delicate and elegant gold bracelet made by hand.
• Kahramanmaraş Yemenisi: Traditional footwear made from handmade leather.
• Kahramanmaraş Carved Walnut Box: Walnut boxes decorated with intricate carved motifs, crafted by master artisans.
• Çağlayancerit Walnut: A variety of walnut known for its thin shell and delicious flavor.
• Maraş File Embroidery: A traditional art of fine lace embroidery.
• Maraş Sumak Sour Extract: A concentrated sour-sweet sauce made from sumac.
• Maraş İşi (Maraş Sim Sırma): Traditional embroidery work using gold and silver threads.
• Maraş Kelle Paçası: A nourishing soup prepared with bone marrow and spices.
• Maraş Copperwork: Kitchen utensils and decorative objects made of copper and adorned with fine craftsmanship.

Places to Visit

Historical and Cultural Sites

• Kahramanmaraş Castle: Located in the city center, this castle is a significant structure testifying to Kahramanmaraş’s history and offers panoramic views of the city to visitors.

• Taş Han: Built in the 17th century, this historic caravanserai stands out for its traditional architecture and currently hosts various events.

• Germanicia Ancient City Mosaics: Discovered in the city center, these mosaics reveal a rich cultural heritage from the Roman period.

• Covered Bazaar: The Covered Bazaar in the center of Kahramanmaraş is one of the most concentrated centers in Türkiye for the practice of traditional handicrafts. Numerous traditional crafts such as coppersmithing, leatherworking, felt-making, wood carving, saddle-making, jewelry-making, knife-making, goldsmithing, and blacksmithing are exhibited here. The bazaar, one of the earliest examples from the Ottoman period, was constructed using rubble and cut stone.

• Eshab-ı Kehf Külliyesi: Located in the Afşin district, this külliye holds great significance for faith tourism. According to legend, it is believed that the Seven Sleepers rested here.

• Ulu Camii: Built in 1496 by Alaüddevle Bey of the Dulkadiroğulları Beylik, the Ulu Camii retains many characteristics of Seljuk architecture. Its mihrab is triangular in shape, its minaret is independent from the mosque, and it was constructed with a wooden roof.

• Yedi Güzel Adam Literature Museum: Established to preserve Kahramanmaraş’s literary heritage, the museum is dedicated to prominent writers from the city including Cahit Zarifoğlu, Erdem Bayazıt, Rasim Özdenören, Alaeddin Özdenören, Mehmet Akif İnan, Ali Kutlay, and Nuri Pakdil. Personal belongings, manuscripts, literary works, and period documents of the poets are exhibited. Interactive areas allow visitors to engage more closely with the literary world. It is an essential destination for those wishing to appreciate Kahramanmaraş’s contributions to literature.

• Kahramanmaraş Museum: Relocated to its new building in 1975, the Kahramanmaraş Museum consists of four exhibition halls: Archaeology, Stone Artifacts, Ethnography, and Garden-Porch. Artifacts from the Hellenistic, Urartian, Roman, and Byzantine periods are displayed. Particularly, altars, tombstones, columns, and the stone lion statue in the garden and porch section attract visitors’ attention.

• Elbistan Ulu Camii: Believed to have been constructed during the Ottoman period in the 16th century, the Elbistan Ulu Camii has undergone several restorations over time. The building incorporates cut stone, marble, and brick, and its interior walls feature calligraphic inscriptions and floral motifs.

• Taş Medrese: A rectangular-plan structure located near the Ulu Camii in Kahramanmaraş, the Taş Medrese is thought to have been built in the early 14th century by Alaüddevle of the Dulkadiroğulları for his daughter. It was constructed using cut and rubble stone, with rooms arranged around its courtyard. A tomb and a small mosque are also located beside the medrese.

Natural Attractions

• Başkonuş Yaylası: Located at approximately 2,000 meters above sea level, this plateau is an ideal destination for nature lovers due to its clean air and natural beauty. Visitors can hike and spend time in picnic areas.

• Yeşilgöz Obruğu: This natural formation in Tekir Village offers a tranquil environment with its clear waters and surrounding pine forests.

• Döngel Caves: This complex of three interconnected caves attracts attention for both its natural beauty and historical significance. Picnic areas at the cave entrances are ideal for visitors.

• Yedikuyular Ski Center: Located on Ahır Dağı, this center serves winter sports enthusiasts with ski slopes of varying difficulty levels.

Spas and Mineral Springs

• Ilıca Spas: Located approximately 70 kilometers from the city center, these thermal spas are significant for health tourism due to their mineral-rich waters.

• Ekinözü Mineral Springs: Located in the Ekinözü district, these springs are known for mineral waters believed to be beneficial for stomach and kidney ailments. Comprising three sections—Yukarı İçme, Orta İçme, and Aşağı İçme—Orta İçme allows for mud baths. These waters, recognized as healing sources since the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, are an important center for health tourism.

Literature and Music

Literature

Kahramanmaraş is known as the “City of Poets.” Many important poets and author who shaped Turkish literature were born here and reflected the city’s cultural fabric and social structure in their works. Kahramanmaraş’s literary identity is rooted in both council poetry and people literature.

Yedi Güzel Adam: Kahramanmaraş has hosted the literary figures known as the “Seven Good Men.” These writers gathered around the magazine “Mavera” in the 1970s and produced significant works that shaped Turkish thought and literature. The poets and writers known as “Yedi Güzel Adam” are:

• Cahit Zarifoğlu (1940–1987): Left deep marks on Turkish literature through his literary personality and mystical expression. Produced important works in poetry, novels, and children’s literature.
• Erdem Bayazıt (1939–2008): A literary figure whose poetry emphasized Islamic sensitivity and had a profound impact on emotional and intellectual life.
• Mehmet Akif İnan (1940–2000): Known not only as a poet but also as a unionist and journalist. Famous for poems such as “Hicret” and “Mescid-i Aksa.”
• Nuri Pakdil (1934–2019): Generated significant resonance in Turkish literature through essays, theater, and philosophical writings. Known for works such as “Edebiyat Dergisi” and “Batı Notları.”
• Rasim Özdenören (1940–2022): Produced important works in short stories and essays, noted for his exploration of individual-society relationships.
• Ali Kutlay and Alaeddin Özdenören: These two figures among the Yedi Güzel Adam made significant contributions to Turkish literature’s intellectual landscape.

These writers opened an important trail in literature and intellectual life through their writings in journals such as Mavera, Edebiyat, and Diriliş from the 1970s onward.

Folk Literature and Aşık Tradition in Maraş

Kahramanmaraş is also a significant center for folk literature. The aşık tradition has remained vibrant in the city for centuries. Aşıks have preserved oral literature by transforming the people’s emotion and thoughts into verse and addressing social events.

Abdurrahim Karakoç (1932–2012): His poem “Mihriban,” rooted in the folk poetry tradition, has become one of the most famous pieces of Turkish folk music and has been composed and performed by numerous artist.

His poems, rich in social critique and satire, merged the folk literature tradition with a modern poetic sensibility. Works such as “Vur Emri,” “Hasan’a Mektuplar,” and “İsyanlı Silence” reached wide audiences.

Aşık Mahzuni Şerif (1940–2002): One of the most important ozans produced by Kahramanmaraş, he left deep imprints on folk music, particularly known for his critical poems addressing social issues. Works such as “Dostum Dostum,” “Dom Dom Kurşunu,” and “Yuh Yuh” stirred great echo.

Folk Music: Maraş folk songs typically address themes of love, love, heroism, and melancholy. Notable regional songs include “Fadime’nin Düğünü,” “Maraş’tan Bir News Geldi,” “Gelin Oldun Gidiyorsun,” and “Zülüf Dökülmüş Yüze.”

Regional Instruments and Musical Culture: The most commonly used instruments in Kahramanmaraş music are:

• Bağlama: A fundamental instrument in folk music, frequently used in Maraş’s aşık and ozan tradition.
• Darbuka and Davul-Zurna: Rhythmic instruments commonly played at weddings, festivals, and holidays.
• Kaval and Mey: Wind instruments used in regional folk songs.

Music Culture and Festivals: The music culture of Kahramanmaraş manifests in many aspects of life, from weddings and holidays to festivals. The annual International Kahramanmaraş Poetry and Literature Days is a major event bringing together poets and folk music artists.

Infrastructure

Transportation

Access to Kahramanmaraş is possible by land road, air, and rail. Kahramanmaraş Airport provides service to the city through domestic hat flights. The city also has strong road connections to neighboring provinces. Rail transport plays a significant role in load logistics.

Health and Education

The city has a well-developed healthcare infrastructure with numerous state and private hospitals. Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University serves as the city’s most important higher education institution, contributing significantly to academic and healthcare fields through its various faculties and research hospital. Additionally, the educational infrastructure has been strengthened by numerous private and public schools.