Sason is a district connected to Batman province, located in a mountainous region with a deep-rooted history. Formerly known as “Kabilceviz,” it was renamed “Sason” by the Republic of Türkiye. Renowned for its walnut, strawberry, and honey production, Sason draws attention with natural beauties like Mereto Mountain and historical structures such as Bozikan Castle. The region’s history stretches back to 1400 BCE, shaped by the influences of various cultures, including the Scythians, Karduks, Arabs, and Ottomans. Currently, situated 65 km from Batman, the district stands out for its tourism potential.
Historical Development
Sason’s history dates back to the Scythians, who migrated from Western Turkestan to Anatolia via the Caucasus around 2700 BCE. The Sakas weakened after the Iranian Shah Kayaksar (633–584 BCE) treacherously killed their leader Alper Tonga and tribal chiefs during a banquet, prompting those who did not retreat north to establish an independent principality in the mountainous area between Lake Van’s southern shore, the Little Zab River, and the tributaries of the Tigris. Herodotus (500 BCE) referred to the tribes in this region as “Bohtlar,” while Xenophon (401 BCE) identified them as “Karduks” (Kurds), noting their independent lifestyle. By 305 CE, as Christianity spread, the region, known as “Kurduk-Elbeyliği,” was divided into districts like Kortu, Kortik, Adrovar, and Motogan.
During the spread of Islam, in the time of Caliph Umar (639 CE), Arab tribes migrating from Basra settled in the region. The origins of Sason’s people are tied to kinship between these Arab tribes and the Karduks. Under the Ottoman Empire, with the transition to the provincial system in 1864, Sason was linked to the Siirt Sanjak and Diyarbakır Province, as confirmed by the 1871 Diyarbakır Yearbook. Later attached to Bitlis and Muş, Sason became a sub-district of Siirt during the Republican era. In 1938, when Kozluk became a district, Sason lost its township status, and on May 16, 1990, with Law No. 3647, it was transferred from Siirt to Batman following Batman’s elevation to provincial status. A municipal organization was established in 1945, and while Arabic and Kurdish were spoken until the 1930s, the Turkish language later became widespread. During World War I, Russians and Armenians pressured the region. Armenians oppressed the Muslim population, while resistance against the Russians was led by Sheikh Said in the Gazi Perperini (Perperin Mountain) area. In 1915, by Ottoman decree, Armenians were relocated to Syria and Russia.
Geographical Situation
Sason lies at an elevation of 908 meters with an area of 706 km², 65 km from Batman. Its population is 30,774, with a density of 44 people per km². Situated in rugged terrain stretching from the Taurus to the Zagros Mountains, the district features wild, water-rich landscapes. Mereto Mountain (2,821 m), the region’s highest peak, is visible from the Diyarbakır basin. As Batman’s most forested district (368,600 decares), Sason’s woodlands—covering 57% of its area—include oak, pistachio, walnut, plane, poplar, and fruit trees. The Zograt Canyon Valley and inverted tulips reflect the district’s rich flora. Though road access exists, the rugged terrain and poor road quality hinder development, especially in winter. While all villages have roads, deficiencies persist.
Economic Situation
First-class agricultural land in Sason is limited. Once famous for tobacco, the district now thrives on walnut, strawberry, honey, blackberry, and silkworm production. Strawberry exports are a key income source, supported by the Dicle Development Agency (DİKA) through geographical indication certification and cold storage projects for strawberries and honey. Walnut and pistachio production are also encouraged, with a need for a honey collection center to boost marketing. The municipality facilitates local product sales with a fixed marketplace. Industrial infrastructure is weak, with no major employment sectors beyond ready-made clothing workshops.
Tourism Potential
Sason holds significant tourism potential with its historical and natural assets. Bozikan Castle, located in Kaleyolu (Bozikân) Village, dates to the Byzantine era (4th century) and played a role in controlling the Silk Road. Mereto Mountain offers opportunities for mountaineering, paragliding, cycling, hiking, and photo safaris. Healing springs like Sevek Çeşmesi, Nabuhan, Hapyenk, and Ağde provide natural allure, with the Sevek Nature Tourism Project planning picnic and sports areas. A mineral water source in Yolüstü Village attracts kidney patients from June to October.
Faith tourism is also notable. At the Şehan Tomb in Erdemli Neighborhood, a celebration with animal sacrifices occurs annually on the last Thursday of July. Two shrines atop Mereto Mountain draw crowds on the same day. The Zograt Canyon Valley and inverted tulips enhance the district’s natural appeal. Projects like a ski resort, cable car, and bungalow facilities could further boost tourism.
