Tortum (District)

Erzurum district in the northeast of place area, Tortum, is known for its natural landscapes, historical structures, and especially Tortum Falls, recognized as one of Türkiye’s highest waterfalls. The district, characterized by a mountainous and rugged land structure, also holds tourism potential through Tortum Lake and its surrounding recreation areas. Located 52 kilometers from the Erzurum city center, it lies along the Erzurum-Artvin land route, which is divided into asphalt lanes.

History

The history of Tortum and its surroundings extends back to very ancient periods. Research in the region indicates settlement as far back as the Early Bronze Age. Tortum, under the rule of the Urartians, Romans, and Byzantine Empire, came under Turkish control following the 1071 Battle of Manzikert. During the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, it maintained its character as a important settlement. Particularly during the Saltuklular period, Tortum Castle served as an important military and administrative center. Due to its location, the district lies at a transitional and blending point between Black Sea culture and other regional influences, embracing diverse cultural elements from cuisine to people games, as evidenced by house.

Tortum (Source:tortum district governorship)

Geography

Tortum district is situated in the northeast of Erzurum. It borders Uzundere to the east, Erzurum center and Pasinler to the south, İspir to the west, and Yusufeli district of Artvin to the north. Its area is 1,484 km². The district’s terrain is predominantly mountainous and rugged. The southern extensions of the Kaçkar Mountains lie in the northern part of the district, featuring deep valleys and rivers. The most important water source in the district is Tortum Lake. The Tortum River flows out of this lake, forming the Tortum Waterfall—one of Turkey’s best-known waterfalls—before emptying into the Çoruh River. The district’s territory, traversed by the Erzurum-Artvin route, consists of mountainous terrain with deep valleys. Villages along these valleys feature fruit gardens and notable natural features. While the southern and western parts of Tortum, located north of Erzurum, experience a continental climate, the northern and eastern parts exhibit a somewhat Black Sea climate judgment.

Climate

In Tortum, transitional characteristics between Black Sea and continental climates are observed. Summers are mild and rainy, while winters are cold and snow snowy. The annual average temperature is low. Winters are particularly harsh and long in higher-altitude areas. Spring and autumn months may feature variable weather conditions.

Population and Demographics

Tortum district ranks 12th among Erzurum’s districts in terms of Population size. According to 2023 TÜİK data, its total population is 17,418. Of this population, 49.64% (8,699) are male and 50.36% (8,719) are female. According to the 2000 census, the population was approximately 34,100. This equates to about 23 people per km². The district includes four municipalities (Bağbaşı, Pehlivanlı, Şeyyurt, and Yukarı Katıklı) and 47 village. Villages are generally located along small valleys. The literacy rate in the district (according to TÜİK data) is 95%. Tortum has a total of 34 primary and secondary school schools, 136 classrooms, 209 teacher, and 1,469 students. Additionally, the Tortum Vocational School of Higher Education, affiliated with Atatürk University, provides services.

Economy

The economy of Tortum district is based on agriculture, animal husbandry, and tourism. Fruit cultivation (particularly apricot, walnut, grape, mulberry, and mulberry jam produced locally as common), vegetables, and cereals are grown in valley floors. In the southern areas, animal husbandry—especially small livestock—is the primary source of livelihood. Beekeeping is also an important economic activity. Tourism, thanks to natural attractions such as Tortum Lake and the Tortum Waterfall as well as historical structures, is increasingly playing a significant role in the district’s economy.

Tourism – Culture – Cuisine

Tortum is a valuable district for tourism due to its striking natural beauty and historical fabric. Its location in the northern basin grants it a rich and diverse cultural heritage dating back to antiquity.

Tortum Waterfall (Source:Erzurum Governorship)

Tortum Waterfall

The Tortum Waterfall, located in Uzundere district of Erzurum, is considered one of Türkiye’s highest waterfalls. It is situated on the mass of rock between the northern end of Tortum Lake and Tev Valley, measuring 22 meters in width and 48 meters in height. Water flowing over resistant limestone layers forms a striking rock basin above and a notable rock pool below. Picnic areas are located around the waterfall. A hydroelectric power plant constructed between 1952 and 1960 was used for regional energy production.

Uzundere Sudökülen Waterfall

This 15-meter-high waterfall in Uzundere district attracts tourist interest during write months due to its refreshing water. Water levels may occasionally decrease due to irrigation use in nearby agricultural fields.

Tortum Lake

Tortum Lake is a natural dam lake formed by a landslide. It draws attention with its clear waters and surrounding natural structure. Lake is navigable by boat; picnic and camping areas are located around its shores. Trout farming is also practiced in the lake.

Tortum Castle

Tortum Castle, situated on a hill dominating the district center, has an uncertain origin, but its architectural style indicates it belongs to the Ottoman period. Evliya Çelebi’s Seyahatname records that it was built by the Georgian king Mameroz-Mağmeral. It was captured in 1282 during the reign of Alaaddin Keykubat and came under Turkish control.

Other Historical and Natural Sites

• Kireçli Bridge: A stone bridge of unknown construction date, whose architectural style is characteristic of the Ottoman period.
• Church of the Virgin Mary (Haho/Hahuli Monastery): This monastery, located in the Bağbaşı municipality, was built in the 10th century by King David III of Bagrat.
• Nihah Castle: This small medieval castle, located 5 kilometers from the district center in the Kalealtı neighborhood, now retains only its interior structure.

Cuisine

Tortum cuisine reflects the interaction between Erzurum and Black Sea culinary traditions. Dishes prepared with locally grown fruits and vegetables are prominent. Apricot and mulberry are among the region’s key products. Mulberry jam is widely consumed locally. Other regional delicacies include mıhlama, karalahana sarması, hıngel, and cağ kebab, a specialty of Erzurum also enjoyed in Tortum.