Top Rated Attractions in Erzurum

An architectural masterpiece from the late Seljuk era, the Cifte Minareli Medrese's magnificent twin minarets soar over the city of Erzurum. Originally founded as a center of learning, it assumed many roles through the years; from operating as a gun foundry to armory, before finally being established as a historical museum. it is believed to have been built in the late 13th Century by the daughter of the powerful Sultan Kayqubad I. The symbol of the city's political power and wealth, the madrasa's historic facade showcases extraordinary Islamic and Seljuk-style craftsmanship. The two striking minarets are embellished with uniquely detailed blue tiles, whereas the facade features a double-headed eagle. Regarded as one of Anatolia's largest madrasas, the Çifte Minareli Medrese continues to be revered as a remarkable vestige from a bygone time.

A fascinating structure featuring a towering minaret studded with geometrical patterns, Yakutiye Medresse is a wonderful place to learn about Turkey’s interesting history. Having initially served as a madrasa following its inception in 1310, the building today functions as a museum. The highlight of the museum is its archaic architecture, followed by the neatly staged scenes of the daily life of people from the bygone era. The mystical treasures on display here, which depict Turkish and Islamic culture, are spectacular and quite the sights to behold.

Known for its towering peak and winter sports slopes, Palandöken Mountain boasts Turkey’s longest ski trail. The mountain measures in at 3,271 meters (10,732 feet) high and is located in Turkey’s Erzurum Province. Surprisingly, the city of Erzurum sits high up on the mountain, just 10 kilometers (6 miles) below the mountain’s mighty summit. Between the city and the summit lies the Palandöken ski resort, which has put the mountain on the map as one of Turkey’s best mountains for skiing. It also hosted the 25th Winter Universiade back in 2011. Winter covers the mountain in fine-grained light powder each year, while its steep slopes offer a variety of skiing trails that will challenge even the most seasoned of skiers. The most challenging of these runs is known as the Dragon trail, an extreme track located on the back end of the mountain.

Established in the year 2010, Kiremitliktepe Ski Jump is found at the foot of the scenic Kiremitlik Hill. This cutting-edge ski jump area contains a normal hill as well as a large hill tower apart from small slopes designed for training and practice. This multi-use complex also hosts several events throughout the year. The advanced ice-ceramic skiing tracks and the landing areas covered with plastic matt offer right conditions for some challenging yet fun ski jumping competitions in all weather conditions.