Refahiye (District)

Refahiye is a district of Erzincan Province, notable for its natural beauty and historical fabric. East Anatolia, situated at the intersection of the Black Sea and Central Anatolia regions, place has endowed the district with both geographical and cultural diversity. Located 71 km from the provincial center, Refahiye covers an area of 1,744 km².

History

The history of Refahiye dates back to its former name, Gercanis. From 1566 to 1871, Gercanis was subordinate to the Sancağı'na. Due to its mountainous and steep terrain, it was relocated to its present location in 1872. Established as a district center in 1882, Refahiye was named by Erzincan Mutasarrıf Şerif Pasha in 1884, with “Refahiye” meaning “abundance”.

Geography and Climate

Refahiye features a mountainous landscape and encompasses natural attractions such as Kızıldağ and Gülendağı. such as The northern part of the district is influenced by the Black Sea climate, while the southern part is dominated by the continental climate of Eastern Anatolia. This situation manifests in harsh winters and cool summers. short

Population and Demographics

According to 2024 data, the population of Refahiye is 11,609, of whom 6,094 are male and 5,515 are female. The district includes 121 village and 73 mezras.

Economy

The economy of Refahiye is based on agriculture and animal husbandry. Crops such as Wheat, barley, legumes, walnut, watermelon and watermelon are cultivated. Additionally, honey production serves as another source of income. The annual honey festival held in August contributes significantly to the district’s economic and cultural life.

Tourism

Refahiye possesses rich tourism potential due to its natural beauty and historical structures. Dumanlı Yaylaları, located between Soğukgöze and Karaçam, offers summer-winter tourism opportunity.

Historical structures in the district include the Kutlutepe Ruins, Kadıköy Church, Center Mosque and Köroğlu Cave. Local kitchen reflects the characteristics of Erzincan cuisine, with specialties such as leaf döner, kesme çorba and water börek.

Kadıköy Church

Kadıköy Church has survived to the present day strong. The entrance door, crafted from cut stone, is notable for its decorative elements. On the threshold stone above the door, a cross motif is carved in the form of relief. Inside the church, traces of wall paintings remain. In front of the apse, there is a finely crafted wooden panel with ornamental details.

Kadıköy Church (Cultural Inventory)

Central Mosque

The Central Mosque in Refahiye District of Erzincan was constructed in the second half of the 19th century. As its inscription has not survived, the patron and exact construction date remain unknown.

The mosque, built entirely from local cut stone, exhibits clear west architectural influence. This is evident from the entrance door and the pointed-arch windows, which reflect the church architectural tradition. It follows a Rectangle plan and is covered by a broken roof roof.

Above the entrance door, the continuation of the roof is supported by a triangular pediment. The minaret, with a rounded shaft made of cut stone and a single balcony, stands on a square base. The mosque’s cemetery, located in the center of a wide courtyard, also contains the Bahattin Paşa Martyrdom Memorial.

Dumanlı Plateau

Dumanlı Plateau is located in the western part of Refahiye District, between the Soğukgöze and Karaçam areas. It extends southward directly from the district center. At an elevation of 2,000 meters above sea level, the Dumanlı Plateau is predominantly covered by pine forests meadow and vegetation. With its natural beauty, clean air, abundant cold water springs, av wildlife and camping facilities, it is open for both summer and winter tourism.



Dumanlı Plateau (Republic of Türkiye, Refahiye District Governorship)