Malatya (Province)

Malatya is an ancient settlement center located in the East Anatolia Region of Türkiye, which has been home to numerous civilizations throughout history. Due to its geographical position, it has experienced continuous habitation since prehistoric times and bears witness to one of the earliest state formation processes in Anatolia, particularly through the Aslantepe Höyüğü. During the Hittite, Urartian, Roman, and Byzantine periods, city served as a transit point and retained its role as a center of administration and commerce during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods.

Today, thanks to its advanced transportation network and direct air and rail connections to major Turkish cities, Malatya has become one of the regional centers of trade and industry. Its rich gastronomic heritage is renowned especially for its apricot production and is recognized on a national scale. Traditional cuisine includes dishes such as Analı Kızlı Köfte, Kağıt Kebabı, and Malatya Kulak Çorbası like original. At the same time, important cultural heritage sites such as the Arslantepe Excavation Site, Günpınar Waterfall, Levent Valley, and the Old Malatya Ulu Cami preserve the city’s historical legacy for the present day. With its historical depth, economic potential, and natural beauty, Malatya stands out as one of Türkiye’s significant cities.

History

Prehistoric and Early Antiquity Period

Malatya is among the cities with the earliest traces of human settlement, with historical roots extending back to the Paleolithic Era. The city’s oldest settlement remains have been identified in the Ansır (Buzluk) and İnderesi caves, where artifacts demonstrate that human communities used the area as a shelter. Cafer Höyük, dated to around 7000 BCE, is one of the most important archaeological sites documenting the transition to settled life and the earliest agricultural activities in the region. Similarly, Aslantepe Höyüğü reveals that Malatya was a major settlement center during the Chalcolithic period from around 5000 BCE. Trade relations with Northern Mesopotamia and Syria via the Euphrates River during this period are evidenced by seals and ceramic found at Aslantepe and Değirmentepe.

Hittite and Late Hittite Period

Malatya came under Hittite control from around 2000 BCE, and during this period Aslantepe became an important administrative center. After the collapse of the Hittite Empire, the city was part of the Late Hittite Kingdoms between 1200 and 700 BCE, known as the Kingdom of Malatya (Melid, Milidia). The Kingdom of Malatya, which resisted the Assyrian and Urartian kingdoms, was captured in 712 BCE by the Assyrian King Sargon II, whose forces deported the local population to Assyrian territories and replaced them with Assyrian settlers.

Median and Persian Period (7th–4th Century BCE)

Following the fall of the Hittite Kingdom, Malatya came under Median rule (circa 612 BCE). After the Persians took control of Anatolia (circa 550 BCE), Malatya became part of the Persian Empire’s Cappadocia Satrapy, preserving its strategic position along trade routes. The road between Mazaka (Kayseri) and Malatya carried significant importance during this period as part of the Persian Royal Road.

Hellenistic and Roman Period (4th Century BCE–4th Century CE)

With Alexander the Great’s conquest of Anatolia (334 BCE), Malatya came under Hellenistic cultural influence. After Alexander’s death, the region changed hands among the Seleucids, the Kingdom of Cappadocia, and the Kingdom of Pontus. In 66 BCE, after Rome defeated the Kingdom of Pontus, Malatya was incorporated into the Roman administration and became an important military center known as Melitene. During the Roman period, the XII Fulminata Legion was stationed in Malatya, making the city a key defensive line on Rome’s eastern frontier. By the 4th century CE, it had become a castle-city safeguarding the eastern borders of the Byzantine Empire.

Byzantine and Islamic Period (5th–11th Century CE)

During the Byzantine era, Malatya served as a crucial defense point against Sasanian attacks. In 575 CE, the Sasanians sacked and destroyed the city, but it was later rebuilt by the Byzantines. From the 7th century onward, Malatya faced Muslim Arab conquest campaigns and became one of the most important bases for expeditions against Byzantium, particularly under the Umayyads and Abbasids. During the Abbasid period, Malatya emerged as one of the most significant frontier cities known as Avasım and became one of the largest Muslim garrison towns in the region. Although briefly occupied by Byzantines in 934, the Hamdanid emirs reclaimed Malatya for Muslim territories.

Seljuk and Beylik Period (11th–16th Century)

After the Battle of Manzikert (1071), Malatya came under Seljuk control and was subsequently governed by the Danişmendids, Anatolian Seljuks, and Ilkhanids. Following Danişmend Gazi’s conquest of Malatya in 1101, the city became one of the key centers of the Danişmendli Beylik. In 1144, Seljuk Sultan I. Mesud captured Malatya and incorporated it into the Anatolian Seljuk realm, after which the city passed under the control of the Ilkhanids, Eretna, and Dulkadiroğulları beyliks.

Ottoman Period (1515–1923)

Yavuz Sultan Selim’s annexation of the Dulkadiroğulları Beylik following the Battle of Turnadağ in 1515 brought Malatya under Ottoman rule. Initially administered as a district under the Maraş Eyalet, the city was later attached to the provinces of Diyarbakır and, in 1892, incorporated into the Mamuret-ül Aziz Vilayet. Throughout the Ottoman period, Malatya continued as a center of agriculture and trade, gaining prominence especially in silk production and cotton manufacturing.

Republican Period (1923–Present)

After the proclamation of the Republic, Malatya gained provincial status in 1924 and became one of Türkiye’s key centers for industry and agriculture. Its connection to the railway network in 1931 enhanced its commercial capacity, and the establishment of the Bez and Tobacco Factories in 1939 marked the first steps toward industrialization. As the world’s leading producer of apricots, Malatya has evolved into a regional hub through its agricultural economy, industry, trade, and cultural heritage. The city has produced two prominent national figures, İsmet İnönü and Turgut Özal, and has made significant contributions to Türkiye’s modernization and development process. Today, Malatya remains one of the most important cities in the Eastern Anatolia Region, distinguished by its historical legacy, rich cultural fabric, and economic potential.

Geographical Structure

Malatya is a city located in the east of Türkiye, within the Upper Euphrates Section of the Eastern Anatolia Region, notable for its historical and geographical characteristics. The city, situated east of the Euphrates River, is distinguished by its fertile lands, mountainous terrain, and continental climate, making it a significant settlement area throughout history. Strategically positioned for agriculture, industry, and transportation networks, Malatya is also known as Türkiye’s apricot production center.

Location and Boundaries

Malatya lies between 37° 45' and 39° 08' north latitudes and 37° 26' and 39° 57' east longitudes. As a province in the Eastern Anatolia Region, it shares borders with the following neighboring provinces:

• North: Sivas and Erzincan
• East: Elazığ
• Southeast: Diyarbakır
• South: Adıyaman
• West: Kahramanmaraş

Due to its position along major land and rail routes connecting eastern and western Türkiye, Malatya has historically served as a crucial intersection of trade and migration routes. The natural boundary formed by the Euphrates River provides a significant advantage for agricultural irrigation and energy production in the eastern part of the province.

Climate

Malatya has a climate characterized by transitional features between continental and Mediterranean climates. Summer months are hot and dry, while winter months are cold and snow rainy.

Seasonal Characteristics

• Summer Months: Temperatures range between 30–40°C. Precipitation is very low and drought is pronounced.
• Winter Months: Cold weather prevails, with temperatures dropping as low as -10°C. Heavy snowfall is common in higher elevations.
• Spring and Autumn: These are the seasons with the highest rainfall. Transition periods are short and marked by sudden temperature fluctuations.

Microclimate Areas

In certain areas of Malatya, microclimate effects caused by the Euphrates River and dam lakes are noticeable. Particularly in regions with intensive apricot cultivation, moderate climatic conditions prevail. This situation reduces frost risk even during winter months, positively influencing agricultural production.

Landforms

Malatya has a complex topography shaped by mountains, plateaus, plains, and rivers.

Mountains and Elevations

Malatya’s terrain is generally rugged, with mountainous areas concentrated in the north and west regions. The main mountains include:

• Beydağı (2,545 m): One of Malatya’s highest peaks, located in the east of the province.
• Mastar Dağı (2,249 m): Located near the city center.
• Akçadağ (2,141 m): Situated in the west near the Kahramanmaraş border.
• Yama Dağı (2,416 m): An important area for winter sports.
• Nurhak Mountains: With an average elevation of approximately 2,500 m, partially within Malatya’s boundaries.

Plains and Plateaus

Malatya’s fertile plains and plateaus are of great importance for agriculture and livestock.

• Malatya Plain: The most extensive area for apricot cultivation and recognized as the agricultural center of the province.
• Doğanşehir Plain: A region with intensive agricultural and livestock activities.
• Yazıhan Plain: Features fertile farmland irrigated by the Euphrates River.
• Hekimhan and Kuluncak Plains: Areas where mining and agricultural activities are interwoven.

Natural Resources and Minerals

Due to its geological structure, Malatya possesses various natural resources and mineral deposits. Major mineral resources include:

• Iron: Significant iron ore reserves are found in the Hekimhan and Kuluncak regions.
• Chromium and Copper: Extracted in limited quantities across the province.
• Marble and Limestone: Widely used in the construction sector.

These natural resources contribute to the development of the mining sector in Malatya’s economic structure.

Rivers and Dams

Malatya is rich in a network of rivers and tributaries connected to the Euphrates River.

Main Rivers

• Euphrates River: The largest water source, forming the eastern boundary of the province and playing a major role in energy production.
• Tohma Creek: An important tributary flowing into the Euphrates River.
• Sultansuyu: One of the most important irrigation sources for agricultural lands.

Dams and Lakes

• Karakaya Dam Lake: One of Türkiye’s largest dams, used for energy generation and irrigation.
• Sürgü Dam Lake: Supplies water for agricultural irrigation and drinking purposes.
• Polat Dam: One of the newer water storage facilities constructed in recent years.

These water resources play a vital role in the development of Malatya’s agricultural and energy sectors.

Seismic Activity and Geological Structure

Malatya lies on the East Anatolian Fault Line and is an active earthquake zone. Throughout history, the province has experienced numerous major earthquakes, particularly along the Kahramanmaraş-Malatya fault line, which exhibits active seismic movement. The city was affected by the major 2023 earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş, prompting reconstruction efforts. Due to seismic risk, new buildings are constructed in compliance with earthquake regulations. Urban transformation projects aim to renovate old and hazardous structures.

• East Anatolian Fault Line: This fault, running through the south and east of Malatya, is the primary source of seismic activity in the region.
• Malatya Fault: Another fault line closer to the city center, capable of causing local earthquakes.

The region’s geological structure, composed of volcanic rocks, limestone, and alluvial soils, provides important resources for both agricultural productivity and the construction industry.

Economic Structure

Throughout history, Malatya has stood out through agricultural, livestock, industrial, and commercial activities, sustaining economic growth due to its strategic location. With fertile soils, water resources, and favorable climate conditions, Malatya possesses significant potential in agriculture and has also demonstrated fast development in industry and trade. Renowned globally for apricot production, the city also draws attention through mining, food processing, and logistics sectors.

Industry and Production

The industrial sector in Malatya experienced significant momentum after the Republican era. Key economic activities include agriculture-based industry, textiles, mining, food production, and construction.

Organized Industrial Zone (OSB)

One of the most important centers of industrialization in Malatya is the Malatya Organized Industrial Zone (OSB). Numerous factories and enterprises representing various sectors operate in this zone:

• Food industry (apricot processing, legumes, flour, and feed production)
• Textile and apparel
• Metal and machinery industry
• Furniture and construction materials production

Food Industry

Malatya is among the cities where industry based on agricultural production has flourished. It hosts major facilities for processing and packaging agricultural products. Key food industry sectors include:

• Apricot Processing and Packaging Plants: Malatya supplies approximately 80% of the world’s dried apricots. Consequently, apricot processing and export-oriented facilities are fundamental pillars of the city’s economy.
• Flour and Feed Mills: Flour and feed production facilities based on agricultural output hold a significant position.
• Legume and Oilseed Processing: Processing of lentils, chickpeas, wheat, and sunflower seeds is a widespread industrial activity in the city.

Mining

Malatya possesses rich mineral deposits and holds considerable potential in the mining sector. The districts of Hekimhan and Kuluncak are particularly notable in this regard.

• Iron: One of Türkiye’s largest iron ore reserves is located in the Hekimhan and Kuluncak districts of Malatya.
• Chromium and Copper: Limited quantities of chromium and copper are also extracted in Malatya.
• Limestone and Marble: These resources, widely used in the construction industry, contribute to Malatya’s economic structure.

Textile and Apparel

Malatya is also prominent for its traditional hand weaving products and apparel production. Textile factories operating in organized industrial zones play a major role in employment.

Trade and Service Sector

Malatya has maintained a strong economic structure in trade due to its historical position at the intersection of trade routes. Marketing of agricultural products and export of industrial goods hold significant importance in the city’s economy.

Local and Regional Trade

• Apricot Trade: Malatya is the central hub for apricot exports and has a substantial trade volume through this product.
• Legume and Flour Trade: Thanks to regional production, legume and flour trade has become a major economic activity.
• Animal Product Trade: Milk, meat, and leather products are among other economic values offered to domestic and international markets.

Tourism

Malatya possesses a rich structure in terms of natural beauty, historical monuments, and religious tourism. In recent years, growth in tourism has spurred expansion in accommodation, food and beverage, and souvenir sectors.

• Arslantepe Höyüğü: This site, listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, is a major attraction for tourists.
• Battalgazi and Arapgir Districts: Contribute to cultural tourism with historical inns, caravanserais, and mosques.
• Nature Tourism: Natural attractions such as Levent Valley and Günpınar Waterfall contribute to the development of ecotourism.

Transportation and Logistics

Malatya is advancing toward becoming the logistics center of Eastern Anatolia. Thanks to its advanced road, rail, and air networks, trade volume continues to grow steadily.

• Malatya-Erhaç Airport: Enhances the city’s transportation capacity with regular flights to major Turkish cities.
• Railway: Located at the intersection of major east-west and north-south rail lines, Malatya enjoys significant logistical advantages.
• Customs Services: The customs directorate in Malatya facilitates faster and more efficient export procedures.

Agriculture and Livestock

Agriculture and livestock hold a major share in Malatya’s economy. Fertile soils and proximity to the Euphrates River enhance the province’s agricultural production potential.

Main Agricultural Products

The most important component of Malatya’s agricultural sector is apricot production. Other products also make significant contributions to the economy:

• Apricot: Malatya supplies a large portion of the world’s apricot production.
• Wheat and Barley: Grain farming is widespread, particularly concentrated in the Yazıhan and Akçadağ plains.
• Sugar Beet: Sugar beet production contributes to the development of agricultural industry in Malatya.
• Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans are cultivated over extensive areas.
• Viticulture: Grape production has developed in the city, although apricot cultivation has overshadowed it.

Livestock

Small and large-scale livestock farming is well-developed in Malatya, making it an important center for meat and milk production.

• Large-Scale Livestock: Milk production is common, especially in the northern districts of Malatya.
• Small-Scale Livestock: Sheep and goat farming serve as an important livelihood source for rural populations.
• Beekeeping: Honey production is widespread in Malatya and holds potential for organic honey production.

Infrastructure

Malatya’s infrastructure features a structure that balances modern urbanization processes with the preservation of traditional urban fabric. Continuous development in basic areas such as transportation, education, health, energy, and water supply has integrated Malatya into major transportation networks due to its strategic location. With urban modernization, significant investments have been made in infrastructure services, particularly in transportation and education projects.

Urban Transportation

Malatya, with its planned urbanization, is among the cities notable for its wide roads, intersections, and transportation networks. Public transit, road, air, and rail systems ensure the city’s internal and external connectivity.

Public Transit

Malatya’s urban transportation is supported by modern public transit systems.

• Bus lines operated by the Malatya Metropolitan Municipality facilitate access to different parts of the city.
• The tram system, integrated into the public transit network, provides an energy-efficient modern transportation system.
• Taxis and minibuses are widely used for short-distance travel within the city center.

Road Network

Malatya is one of the key intersection points of major road routes connecting eastern and western Türkiye.

• Malatya-Elazığ, Malatya-Kayseri, and Malatya-Adıyaman roads are among the busiest in the region.
• City roads have been widened and intersections reorganized.
• The newly constructed Malatya-Adıyaman road has shortened travel distance by 75 km, accelerating connections between Malatya and the GAP region as well as neighboring countries to the south.

Air Transport

Malatya also possesses a developed air transportation infrastructure.

• Erhaç Airport, located 30 km from the city center, serves both domestic and international flights.
• Regular flights to Istanbul and Ankara are operated by Turkish Airlines and private air carriers.
• The airport runway is designed to accommodate large international aircraft in all seasons.

Railway

Malatya is one of Türkiye’s most important logistical centers for railway transportation.

• Malatya lies at the convergence point of east-west and north-south rail lines.
• Direct rail connections are provided to the Central Anatolia, Southeastern Anatolia, and Eastern Anatolia regions.
• TCDD-operated freight and passenger trains schedule services to numerous destinations via Malatya.

Educational Infrastructure

Malatya is among the important academic centers of Eastern Anatolia, with advanced educational institutions.

Inönü University

• Inönü University, established in 1975, is the city’s largest educational institution.
• It offers a broad academic spectrum in medicine, engineering, science and literature, education, health sciences, and social sciences.
• The Liver Transplant Institute within the university is a globally recognized health center.

Malatya Turgut Özal University

Established in 2018, university focuses on vocational and technical education. It conducts academic research in agriculture, livestock, and industry.

Vocational High Schools and Technical Education

Malatya has institutions offering vocational education oriented toward industry and agriculture. Professional training programs are implemented in food industry, textiles, agriculture, and construction sectors.

Research Centers and Libraries

• Malatya Public Library is one of the largest libraries in the region.
• Research centers within Inönü University host scientific studies.

Health Infrastructure

Malatya possesses one of the most advanced health infrastructures in the region.

Hospitals and Health Facilities

• Malatya Education and Research Hospital is one of the largest health institutions in the region.
• The Inönü University Liver Transplant Institute is a globally recognized health center.
• Private and public hospitals provide services across different areas of the city.
• Family health centers, community health centers, and private clinics support primary healthcare services.

Energy and Water Infrastructure

Malatya is also a well-developed city in terms of energy and water resources.

Electricity and Energy

Electricity distribution in Malatya is provided by Türkiye Elektrik İletim A.Ş. (TEİAŞ) and private distribution companies. The city has high potential for sun energy, and renewable energy projects are underway.

Water Resources and Drinking Water

Malatya’s drinking water is supplied by the Karakaya Dam and underground water sources. Water purification projects conducted by Municipality ensure clean drinking water for the city.

Cuisine and Dishes

Malatya cuisine holds an important place within the rich kitchen heritage of Anatolia, distinguished by its unique flavors. Having hosted numerous civilizations throughout history, the city has synthesized culinary traditions from various cultures to create a broad and rich food culture. Cereal products, meat dishes, kebabs, dough products, and desserts form the foundation of Malatya cuisine. Additionally, the region’s geographical structure and climate have directly influenced its culinary culture, with apricot production and cereal-based dishes standing out prominently.

General Characteristics of Malatya Cuisine

• Use of Cereals and Legumes: Wheat, bulgur, barley, lentils, and chickpeas are frequently used in Malatya cuisine.
• Meat Consumption: Lamb, beef, and chicken are commonly used in traditional dishes.
• Köfte Culture: Malatya cuisine is renowned for its variety of köfte. Numerous types exist, including Akıllı köfte, mercimekli çiğ köfte, ıspanaklı ekşili köfte, and kabaklı köfte.
• Dough Products: Börek, çörek, and various types of bread are widely prepared in the region.
• Use of Apricots: Malatya is known as the world capital of apricots, and apricots are widely used in many dishes. Apricot-based meals, desserts, and pestil hold an important place in Malatya cuisine.
• Use of Vegetables and Fruits: Cabbage, squash, eggplant, and grapes are commonly used in cooking.

Notable Dishes of Malatya

Köfte and Meat Dishes

One of the most distinctive features of Malatya cuisine is the abundance of köfte varieties. Köfte are typically prepared with bulgur, meat, and various spices.

• Analı Kızlı Köfte: Similar to içli köfte but made in smaller pieces, this dish consists of bulgur, minced meat, chickpeas, and various spices.
• Mercimekli Çiğ Köfte: A meatless alternative to çiğ köfte, prepared with lentils, fine bulgur, onion, and spices.
• Ispanaklı Ekşili Köfte: A flavorful dish made by cooking bulgur köfte balls with spinach and sour sauce.
• Kabaklı Köfte: A dish prepared by adding squash to bulgur köfte, appreciated for its soft texture and lightness.
• Kağıt Kebabı: A significant meat dish of Malatya, prepared by roasting lamb or beef with vegetables wrapped in paper in an oven.
• İsot Kebabı: A dish made with isot pepper, where meat is mixed with spices and roasted.

Dough Products and Soups

Dough products hold a significant place in Malatya cuisine. Böreks, bread varieties, and grain-based dishes represent the region’s culinary traditions.

• Malatya Böreği: A börek prepared with special spices and filling, made with thin dough and baked in an oven.
• Sırın (Serun): A traditional dish made by rolling thin phyllo sheets and serving with yogurt and butter.
• Kesmece: A traditional Malatya dish made with homemade erişte noodles.
• Yüksük Çorbası: A soup made with small dumpling-like dough pieces and chickpeas, resembling mantı.
• Maş Çorbası: A regional soup prepared with green maş beans, onion, tomato, and spices.
• Paaç (Poğaç): A local type of dough product typically consumed at breakfast.

Vegetable and Legume Dishes

In Malatya cuisine, vegetables are intensively consumed together with meat and legumes.

• Lahana Sarması: A traditional dish made by wrapping rice, spices, and minced meat in cabbage leaves and cooking.
• Soğan Dolması: A dish made by hollowing out onions and filling them with minced meat and spices.
• Borani: A nutritious dish made with spinach, yogurt, and chickpeas.
• Fasulye Kavurması: A dish made by sautéing green beans with onion, tomato, and spices.

Desserts and Sweets

Malatya is especially famous for its apricot and mulberry-based desserts. Desserts commonly use sugar, walnut, pekmez, and flour.

• Delikız Baklava: A regional dessert made with walnuts, syrup, and thinly rolled phyllo.
• Malatya Cheese Helva: A light dessert made with cheese and semolina.
• Dut Pestili and Pekmez: Abundantly produced in Malatya, mulberries are used in pestil and pekmez production.
• Haşıl (Kuymak, Haside): A dessert made with flour, pekmez, and butter.
• Küllü Kömbe: A traditional cookie made with flour, walnuts, and spices.

Regional Beverages

Beverages also hold an important place in Malatya cuisine.

• Ayran: Frequently consumed alongside meat dishes.
• Dut Şerbeti: A refreshing drink made by boiling and cooling mulberries.
• Kayısı Şerbeti: A natural drink made from apricots.

Malatya cuisine is a rich culinary tradition shaped by historical and cultural accumulation, preserving traditional flavors while appealing to modern palates. While bulgur and meat-based dishes form the core, regional products such as apricots and mulberries are fundamental to its culinary identity. With its variety of köfte, dough products, desserts, and vegetable dishes, Malatya possesses one of the most distinctive culinary cultures in Anatolia.

Historical Structures

Malatya has hosted numerous civilizations throughout history and preserved its cultural heritage to the present day, housing significant historical structures. Malatya bears traces of many civilizations—from the Hittites to the Romans, from the Seljuks to the Ottomans—and is rich in historical heritage, particularly in mosques, hans, bridges, and ancient settlements. As one of the oldest settlement areas in Anatolia, the city especially houses a globally significant archaeological site such as Arslantepe Mound.

Archaeological Sites and Ancient Cities

Arslantepe Höyüğü

Arslantepe Höyüğü, listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, is one of Malatya’s most important archaeological sites. The mound contains remains from the Hittite, Assyrian, Persian, Roman, and Byzantine periods and has served as one of the earliest state structures in Anatolia. With a history extending back to 4000 BCE, it bears the earliest traces of state formation in the region. The discovery of a palace complex, frescoes, seals, and nail inscribed tablets demonstrates that the site functioned as an administrative center.

Old Malatya (Battalgazi) Walls

These walls, constructed during the Roman period, were repaired and used during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. The strong walls, built to protect the city from external attacks, still stand today, preserving their historical integrity.

Mosques and Religious Structures

Battalgazi Ulu Cami

This mosque, located in the Battalgazi district of Malatya, is one of the most important works of the Seljuk period. Built in 1224 by I. Alaeddin Keykubat, it is one of the most beautiful examples of Anatolian Seljuk architecture, noted for its stone decorations and large courtyard.

Yeni Cami (Hacı Yusuf Taş Cami)

This mosque in the city center was built to replace the old mosque destroyed in the 1894 earthquake. It is one of the fine examples of Ottoman mosque architecture.

Silahtar Mustafa Paşa Kervansarayı

Constructed in 1637 by Silahtar Mustafa Pasha, vizier of Ottoman Sultan IV. Murad. Located on the historic Silk Road, the caravanserai served as accommodation for merchants and travelers. Today, it functions as a tourist center.

Taşhoron Church

This Armenian church was built during the Ottoman period. The Long years it was open for worship, this church is now preserved as cultural heritage.

Hans and Caravanserais

Taşhan

Taşhan, one of the hans built during the Ottoman period, was used for the accommodation of merchants along trade routes. It is notable for its cut-stone construction and strong architecture. Some sections have been restored and are now used as a tourist area.

Millet Hanı

An important inn from the Ottoman period, it is one of the original examples of caravanserai architecture and played a vital role in the development of commercial life in the city.

Bridges and Water Structures

Köprülü Mehmet Paşa Bridge

This bridge, built during the Ottoman period, served as an important transportation point in Malatya. It is notable for its stone-arch structure and solid architecture.

Gündüzbey Water Channel

This water channel, constructed during the Ottoman period, was built to meet the city’s water to meet. Preserved as cultural heritage due to its architectural and historical significance.

Inns and Traditional Malatya Houses

Beşkonaklar Ethnography Museum and Traditional Malatya Houses

Among Malatya’s historical inns, it holds an important place. It is used as a museum where traditional Malatya houses are preserved and exhibited.

Karakaş Konağı

An Ottoman-era mansion, it is one of the finest examples of traditional Malatya houses. Today, it is used as a museum and for cultural events.

Malatya Inns

Many inns from the Ottoman and Republican periods are found in the city. These inns are generally constructed using stone and wood and exhibit traditional architectural features.

Monuments and Tombs

Atatürk Monument and İnönü Statue

One of the important monuments of Malatya’s modern history. The Atatürk Monument represents the city’s identity during the Republican era, while the İnönü Statue was erected in memory of İsmet İnönü, a native of Malatya.

Somuncu Baba Türbesi

The tomb of Somuncu Baba, who holds an important place in the Islamic world, is one of Malatya’s significant centers for religious tourism and welcomes many visitors annually.

Hasan Basri Türbesi

Located in the historic Battalgazi district, the tomb belongs to Hasan Basri, an important figure in the Islamic world.

Natural and Historical Sites

Levent Valley

One of Malatya’s most important natural and historical heritage sites. It holds significant tourist value due to its rocky formations and natural caves.

Günpınar Waterfall

Günpınar Waterfall, located in the Darende district of Malatya, attracts attention with its natural beauty and historical past. It is an important area for nature walks and tourism.

Tohma Creek Canyon

A natural canyon with settlement traces from ancient times in its surroundings. It is considered an area for nature sports and tourism.

Administration

Malatya’s administrative structure is shaped within the framework of Türkiye’s administrative system and is managed by both central and local authorities. The province is governed by governors appointed by the Ministry of Interior, while local administration is conducted by mayors and provincial council members elected by popular vote. Malatya gained metropolitan municipality status in 2014, resulting in structural changes to its governance.

Governorship

Malatya is administered by governors appointed by the Ministry of Interior within the administrative structure of the Republic of Türkiye. Governors are responsible for overall city management, maintaining public order, implementing central government policies at the local level, and regulating public services.

List of Governors

Many governor have served in Malatya since the proclamation of the Republic. Governors who have served in Malatya since the Republican era include:

• Vehbi Bey (1922–1922)
• Asım Bey (1922–1925)
• Nevzat Tandoğan (1925–1927)
• Nazmi Toker (1927–1930)
• Mehmet Tevfik (1930–1933)
• İbrahim Ethem Akıncı (1933–1939)
• Fahri Özen (1939–1943)
• Ahmet Kınık (1943–1949)
• Sait Koçak (1949–1950)
• Turgut Babaoğlu (1950–1951)
• Şefik San (1951–1953)
• Mustafa Rauf İnan (1953–1954)
• Ahmet Tekeoğlu (1954–1956)
• Nazım Arda (1956–1960)
• Cezmi Kartay (1960–1966)
• Ali Rıza Aydos (1966–1968)
• Hüseyin Sabri Sözer (1968–1970)
• Babür Ünsal (1970–1971)
• Ahmet Sadullah Verel (1971–1975)
• Rafet Küçüktiryaki (1975–1978)
• Cahit Bayar (1978–1978)
• Ferruh Güven (1978–1979)
• Enver Hızlan (1979–1981)
• Aydın Özakın (1981–1982)
• Kurtuluş Şişmantürk (1982–1983)
• Alaettin Hüsnü Özipeker (1983–1984)
• Naim Cömertoğlu (1984–1986)
• Kutlu Aktaş (1986–1990)
• Oğuz Kaan Köksal (1990–1992)
• Saffet Arıkan Bedük (1992–1994)
• Arif Atilla Osmançelebioğlu (1994–1997)
• Atilla Vural (1997–1999)
• Mustafa Yıldırım (1999–2003)
• Osman Derya Kadıoğlu (2003–2006)
• Halil İbrahim Daşöz (2006–2009)
• Mehmet Ulvi Saran (2009–2012)
• Vasip Şahin (2012–2014)
• Süleyman Kamçı (2014–2016)
• Mustafa Toprak (2016–2017)
• Ali Kaban (2017–2018)
• Aydın Baruş (2018–2022)
• Hulusi Şahin (2022–2023)
• Ersin Yazıcı (2023–2024)
• Seddar Yavuz (2024–Present)

Mayors

Malatya’s mayors have played a significant role in the city’s administrative and local governance structure. Mayors have been responsible for urban development, infrastructure projects, social services, and overall city management. Prior to 2014, when Malatya gained metropolitan municipality status, it was administered as a provincial municipality; since then, it has operated as Malatya Metropolitan Municipality.

Mayors (1924–2014)

• İbrahim İpekçi (1924–1928)
• Hasan Derinkök (1928–1930)
• M. Naim Karaköylü (1930–1934)
• Tevfik Temelli (1934–1939)
• Cafer Özelçi (1939–1942)
• Şefik Tugay (1942–1943)
• Hikmet Fırat (1943–1946)
• Sait Fırat (1946–1950)
• Nurettin Akyurt (1951–1957)
• Avni Gebeş (1957–1960)
• Turgut Temelli (1960–1971)
• Mehmet Kırçuval (1971–1973)
• A. Nuri Nebioğlu (1973–1977)
• H. Hamit Fendoğlu (1977–1978)
• Naci Şavata (1978–1979)
• İbrahim Fendoğlu (1980–1980)
• Mehmet Kırçuval (1982–1983)
• E. Seyhan Semercioğlu (1984–1989)
• A. Münir Erkal (1989–1999)
• M. Yaşar Çerçi (1999–2004)
• H. Cemal Akın (2004–2009)
• Ahmet Çakır (2009–2014)
• Ahmet Çakır (2014–2018)
• H. Uğur Polat (2018–2019)
• Selahattin Gürkan (2019–2024)
• Sami Er (2024–Present)