Keban is a district of Elazığ province in Türkiye's Eastern Anatolia Region. It is located approximately 46 kilometers from Elazığ city center, built on the Euphrates River. The district has a strategic location on a regional scale due to its dam and water resources.
Keban Dam Lake (Elazığ Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism)
Geography
Keban district is located to the west of Elazığ province, bordered by Elazığ Central to the east, Malatya’s Arapgir district to the west, Ağın and Baskil to the north, and Sivrice districts to the south. The district covers an area of 641 square kilometers, and its topography is generally mountainous and rugged. Extensions of the Palu Mountains and various elevations are found in the region. The Euphrates River forms an important part of Keban district's natural boundaries. Keban Dam Lake, located to the west of the district, is Türkiye's second-largest artificial lake. In terms of climate characteristics, a continental climate prevails; summers are hot and dry, while winters are cold and snowy.
History
The history of settlement in Keban and its surroundings can be traced back to the Chalcolithic Age. Archaeological studies conducted in the region show that there has been settlement since prehistoric times. Many civilizations such as the Hittites, Urartians, Persians, Romans, and Byzantines dominated the region. During the Ottoman period, Keban was recorded as a settlement unit affiliated with the Harput Sanjak.
In the Republican period, Keban, which had the status of a sub-district attached to Elazığ, became a district in 1967.
Population and Administrative Structure
Keban district administratively consists of a central municipality, one town (Zırki/Altınoluk), and 30 villages. According to data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), the district's population has fluctuated over the years. Especially since the 1980s, economic and social migration movements have led to a decrease in population. In the district, the rural population density is higher compared to the city center. Within the administrative structure, the district governorship and the mayor's office constitute the basic administrative units.
Economy
Keban's economy is mainly based on agriculture, animal husbandry, fishing, and the service sector. Although there are no large-scale industrial activities in the district, some local manufacturing and service sectors are active. Keban Dam Lake offers significant potential for freshwater fishing. Especially trout production forms the center of aquaculture in the district.
In agricultural production, fruit and vegetable cultivation and viticulture stand out. Livestock activities are mostly concentrated on small ruminant animals.
Keban Fish Farm (Elazığ Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism)
Transportation
Access to the district is provided by road, with a connection to the city center via the Elazığ-Keban road. Additionally, transportation to settlements on the opposite bank of the river is provided through the bridge and ferry systems located on the Keban Dam. The district does not have any other transportation infrastructure apart from land transportation. In rural areas, transportation is largely carried out via village roads.
Education and Health
In Keban district, there are public schools providing education at various levels. Primary and secondary education institutions operate in the district center and some villages. Vocational schools are also available in the district. As a higher education institution, a vocational school affiliated with Fırat University conducts educational activities in the district.
Health services are provided through the district state hospital and some health centers. There are no private health institutions. In terms of health personnel and technical infrastructure, limitations can sometimes be experienced.
Cultural Structure and Tourism
Keban district hosts various cultural heritage elements. Keban Stone Bridge, Kalecik Cave, Rock Tombs, Sırçalı Cave, and ancient period ruins constitute the cultural and archaeological structure of the district. These areas serve as sources for history and archaeology research.
The area around Keban Dam Lake attracts attention with its picnic areas, natural observation points, and fishing activities. These areas with touristic potential are used for various recreational activities. Some local events and festivals held annually in the district contribute to the preservation of regional cultural values.
Murat River (Elazığ Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism)
