Van
Country: Turkey
Region: Middle East
Period: 9th c.BCE-6th c.BCE
Location: 38.494167°N, 43.38°E
Description
Van is a scenic city located in eastern Turkey, nestled beside the vast Lake Van. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Van has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Urartu, a powerful kingdom that dominated the region between the 9th and 6th centuries BCE. Today, Van is known for its historical sites, beautiful landscapes, and as a center for Kurdish culture.
Modern Remains
Modern-day Van is home to several remarkable remnants from its ancient past. The Van Castle (Van Kalesi), which sits on a hill overlooking the city and Lake Van, is one of the most impressive landmarks, offering stunning views and ancient inscriptions from the Urartian period. Ahtamar Island, located on Lake Van, houses the Church of the Holy Cross, a beautiful example of medieval Armenian architecture. Other sites include the Urartian Rock Tombs, The Van Archaeology Museum, which displays artifacts from the Urartian and Seljuk periods, and the remains of Kavalan Fortress, which further showcase the grandeur of the ancient kingdom.