Area: 8.933 km²
Population: 513.681 (2000)
Traffic Code: 32
Isparta is a province that placed at the Mediterranean Region, and famous with lakes, roses and rugs. Antic cities, national parks, and caves are places to be seen in province.
Districts: Isparta (center), Aksu, Atabey, Eğridir, Gelendost, Gönen, Keçiborlu, Senirkent, Sütçüler, Şarkikarağaç, Uluborlu, Yalvaç, Yenişarbademli.
Aksu: There are coins come acrossed in the district, that belong to Helenistic era from 1st and 2nd century BC. The most important ruins in the district are; Timbriada, Tynada, Eurymendon holly area and Roman bridge. The Sorgun and Zindan caves and Sorgun plateu which take important place in tourism are remain in the border of the district.
Atabey: The main historic and cultural properties in the distict are: the 41 cubic graves, the ruins of Sidera Bayat, the Madrasa of Ertokus and the mosque of Sinan. The district of Atabey is 23 km away from Isparta.
Population: 513.681 (2000)
Traffic Code: 32
Isparta is a province that placed at the Mediterranean Region, and famous with lakes, roses and rugs. Antic cities, national parks, and caves are places to be seen in province.
Districts: Isparta (center), Aksu, Atabey, Eğridir, Gelendost, Gönen, Keçiborlu, Senirkent, Sütçüler, Şarkikarağaç, Uluborlu, Yalvaç, Yenişarbademli.
Aksu: There are coins come acrossed in the district, that belong to Helenistic era from 1st and 2nd century BC. The most important ruins in the district are; Timbriada, Tynada, Eurymendon holly area and Roman bridge. The Sorgun and Zindan caves and Sorgun plateu which take important place in tourism are remain in the border of the district.
Atabey: The main historic and cultural properties in the distict are: the 41 cubic graves, the ruins of Sidera Bayat, the Madrasa of Ertokus and the mosque of Sinan. The district of Atabey is 23 km away from Isparta.
Gelendost: The district of Gelendost is one the oldest cultural centre since the first eras, located on the lakes region, called the country of Psidya. The most important cultural buildings in the district are, the two historic mosques and the Ertokus Caravanserai which in in the borders of Yesilkoy.
Keciborlu: It is on the junction of all roads. The Ankara-Istanbul and Izmir highway and railway are passes through the district. There some preserved traces remained from old era are in the district such as; Keciborlu tumulus, Kilic tumulus, the remains of Kilic Fari, the remains of Fadilli, the remains of Guneykent city, the mosque of Sinanbey, the mosque of Senir Haci Osman, the tomb of Gumusgun Sinan Dede.
The main picnic and high plateu of touristic places are; Sogut Mt. Plateu, Fadilli plateu, Koru plateu, Tasoluk plateu, the picnic area and pond of Guneydere-Uzundere, Keciborlu pond, Boyranli Sini plateu, Aydogmus Akdag plateu. The villages of Tepecik and Ardicli beaches are located by the Burdur lake.
It is understood from researches and remains that the area of Senirkent has inhabitanted since old era. The Tymandos antique city, Yassioren tumulus, Garip tumulus, Tohumkesen tumulus, Aralik tumulus, Gencali tumulus, and the tomb of Veli Baba are in the district.
Keciborlu: It is on the junction of all roads. The Ankara-Istanbul and Izmir highway and railway are passes through the district. There some preserved traces remained from old era are in the district such as; Keciborlu tumulus, Kilic tumulus, the remains of Kilic Fari, the remains of Fadilli, the remains of Guneykent city, the mosque of Sinanbey, the mosque of Senir Haci Osman, the tomb of Gumusgun Sinan Dede.
The main picnic and high plateu of touristic places are; Sogut Mt. Plateu, Fadilli plateu, Koru plateu, Tasoluk plateu, the picnic area and pond of Guneydere-Uzundere, Keciborlu pond, Boyranli Sini plateu, Aydogmus Akdag plateu. The villages of Tepecik and Ardicli beaches are located by the Burdur lake.
It is understood from researches and remains that the area of Senirkent has inhabitanted since old era. The Tymandos antique city, Yassioren tumulus, Garip tumulus, Tohumkesen tumulus, Aralik tumulus, Gencali tumulus, and the tomb of Veli Baba are in the district.
Districts
Aksu
Aksu is like a folksong sung in the mountains. It is set on the fringes of the mountain. It hides plateaus, canyons, caves, valleys in itslef. The peak of Dedegöl Mountain and Zindan Cave are located within its borders. Aksu is a place where your “lungs” can enjoy the mountain air full of oxygen and your “eyes” can be amazed by the view of colourful plateaus in spring.
Aksu provides you with not only the songs of mountains and the earth but also the echoes of the undergound. The mountainous structure of the area helped the caves to be formed . Aksu is a geological laboratoary for the cave scientists. Besides Aksu Zindan Cave, we can list some others such as Sorgun of 302 m which is 10 km from Aksu, Gümüşini of 201 m., Örsini and Çivini Caves in Yakaafşar, Deliktaş Cave, Mercadeliği (Mercan Hole) on the Kuzukulağı Plateau, Sarıalan on the Sarıalan Plateau, Beldelik, Koyunerek Caves, Kunduz in Katipköy, İnlice in the Yakakapız Canyon, Çivini and Evini Caves in Koçular village. New caves are still waiting for to be discovered in the area.
You can see that many kinds of herbs are spread out on the grounds and dried in the yards of the village hauses. People pick up and use such herbs as thyme, karabaş herb (a kind of buckweat), bovçavla, honeywart for medication. On the tablelands, shepherds and their families stil live in black nomad tents.
One of the most interesting roads in Aksu is the one running from Yakaköy to Çayır Plateau with a length of 18 km. For those who are interested in photography and nature this road takes only a few hours to walk! They see geological formations, cracked mountains and flowers which look like a rain on the earth. They are stopped by the amazement they feel for the snow blocks. Eğricöz Düdens (naturally formed welles) which were formed by the waters of melting snow and rains located in Buğdaylıklı and Eğricöz, sometimes appear and sometimes disappear in the caves and they flow like a puzzle under the ground. Among these caves, Zindan Cave is the only one to be illuminated.
Those rafting on the waters of Köprüçay in Antalya do not know that they owe this joy to Isparta. Because Köprüçay stems from the Sorgun Plateau on the southern slope of the Anamas Mountains which is located 8 km north of Aksu. Creating its own cascades and “kissing rocks”, it continues its flow… Another important formation like the one in Aksu is the Kapız Canyon. The Canyon which is 24 km from the town is 4 km. in lenght. You can enter into this area without any equipment.
Dedegöl Mountain is shared by Aksu and Yenişarbademli towns of Isparta and Beyşehir town of Konya. The most suitable time for climbing up to Karagöl, the glacial lake on the peak can be July- August. Even if you climb on a summer day, remember to take something warm to put on!
The sacred area in front of Zindan Cave belongs to the ancient city of Timbriada. This small city located close to the source of Köprüçay, also has structures dedicated to Eurymedon, the river goddess. The remnants on the Senitli Plateau and Tynada on the Asar Hill give us clues about the history of the town. In front of Zindan Cave there is a Roman bridge which s still used (on the right).
Atabey
How many societies lived on your lands….
Its name has changed as Argos, Agros, Agrae, Agrai, Agpia, Ağras, Agrus but despite all it has continued to exist.
Its name has changed as Argos, Agros, Agrae, Agrai, Agpia, Ağras, Agrus but despite all it has continued to exist.
With walnut trees that make Atabey “green” and the paragliders taking off from the ancient city of Seleukeia Sidera, Atabey waits for its guests.
Those who see the reflections of the reddish snowy mountains upon the small lake should not be deceived by the tanquility. Atabey, located within the circle of the mountains, created a “Gelincik Ana (Poppy Mother)” legend among them. The legend belongs to Barla Mountain and therefore the mountain is also called “Gelinik Ana (Poppy Mother)” or “Poppy Mountain”.
Poppy is trying to make a fire on the cookstone out of the ashes of the previos year. Suddenly Poppy’s hair catches flame and she burns. She was buried there, right by the cookstone. Nomads believe that her soul met with the saints and they come to visit Gelincik Ana’s tomb at the beginnig of each migration and praying for her they get permission.
In Bayat Village located on the south of the town, the ancient city of Seleukeia Sidera can be seen.The acient city whose acropole is surrounded by ramparts needs a wide excavation .It attracts history fans with its theatre, tombs, cistern and sacred area. Agrea , another ancient city, had remained under todays Atabey. Agedness of the settlements in the vallage have been proved by the deaths buried in the earthenware jugs found in Gündürle mound graveland located in Harmanören Village. What was found in this village is exhibited in Isparta Museum.
The most important historical artifact in Ataköy is Ertokuş Madrasah. Feyzullah Pasha Mosque is located right at the opposite. Old columns and woodwork were protected during restoration works. Süleymen Demirel Democracy Museum is also located in İstanköy.
Ataköy is a town where great importance is attached to environmental arrangements. It has a modern outlook with its parks decorated with flowers, pools with fountains, trees on the pavements, picnic and recreation sites by the small lake.
Eğirdir
Eğirdir, the beauty of lakes….
Those who have eaten fish at the restaurants by the lake on days when the sun paints the sky making the artists jealous of it know this beauty very well. The town Eğirdir lays itself down on the lake shore. One arm of it being in the water it reaches out to Yeşilada. This is the usual photograph of the town on its tourism posters. However Eğirdir is a touristic attraction far beyond this picture.
With its castle stuck among the buildings, tea gardens (cafes) on Canada and Yeşilada, legends of “walking across the lake” told among the people, joyful voices of those on Altınkum beach and nomad villages which fall asleep in the mountains, Eğirdir looks at the waters.
Two sisters Canada and Yeşilada on the lake present themselves like fruits on the nature’s table. Yeşilada’s Greek name is Nis. Teagardens (cafes), picnic sites and restaurants on the islands host people coming from long distances at the weekends. When the joy of spring is felt in the hearts of the people couples, grandfathers and grandsons, foreigners and travelers find themselves here.
We know from the tombs and the materials found in the mounds that Eğirdir was a settlement between 8000-5000 B.C. This story came up from the Phrygians to the nun schools at the time of the spread of Christianity ; but not many structures could remain from the cities collapsed. The town conquered by the Anatolian Seljuks in 1204 was used as banlieue for a period of time. It became an important point of the trade road starting from Antalya port. Katip Çelebi writes “Eğirdir is a small but strong and firm castle that touches the lake” in the 17. century. The castle in the town centre which still stands with the Byzantian ramparts needs an immediate restoration. The small authentic Eğirdir House built on a corner of the castle can be visited. The articles in the house stand like the symbols of the nostalgia felt for the past. For those interested in historical artifacts there are many places to see in the town. One of them is Prostanna built on the Eğirdir Sivri. It has a bird’s –eye view of the town. There are remnants of the ancient city Parlais in Barla and of Malos in Sarıidris. The church foundations in Gökçehöyük and Kaltepe, Eğirdir Inn, Aya Stefanos and Aya Geogios Churches can also be listed.
It is told that 3000 people perform namaz in Hızırbey Mosque which is called Ulucami (Ulu Mosque) by the people. One rampart of the castle stands as a joint wall between Dündar Bey Madrasah and the mosque and the minaret heads up on this rampart. Dündar Bey Madrasah was built as an Inn in 1237 at the time of Seljukian Sultan Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev and then transformed into a madrasah. You can see the tourists taking photos in front of the crown gate. Those tourists do not leave without stopping by the fish restaurants on the island. Last year a permanent sculpture exhibition was opened on Canada which rests under the shades of willows. Marble sculptures of the artists who participated in the International Stone Sculptures Symposium embellish the island.
You should see the Pulley Oak Wood (Kasnak Meşesi Ormanı) in Yukarıgökdere Village. Watch terrace in Akpınar Village which is 7 km from the centrum presents you a living map especially in spring and autumn. Drinking your coffee you hear people talking “Look there is Boğaz Ova (Plain), there is Barla, those are the Anamas Mountains…” People having picnic meet in the restoration area which also includes a small zoo and at Çamyol which is an inwood promenade located on the 15. km of the road running t o Sütçüler. And when you say the Plateau; The Mosque, Kurucaoluk, Belova and Belkuyu come to minds.
One of the most beautiful points of Eğirdir is the Bülbül Point on the lake shore. The large circle of willows in the lake is filled with water birds, reeds and water lilies.
Eğirdir is also home for a tradition carried for ages. This is the Pınar Bazaar which opens in Bağlar Mahallesi (Bağlar street) in September and sometimes lasts for almost three months… During this period it is set up on Sundays only and it is just a fair. Many people bringing their animals pulling them from their ropes, grilling lamb (by using Turkish methods), selling calico and making saddles enliven the fair. On the fair which is set up in front of the poplar trees, women sell their handworks (needleworks, clothes, ayas). In September the town is jollified by the Culture and Tourism Festival.
Gelendost
Isparta is a place where silk road carpets, caravansarays sit coss-legged. Once upon a time, camels carried goods to the ships anchored in the Mediterrennan and going through Isparta they climbed over the Taurus. Ertokuş Caravansaray in Gelendost stands by Eğirdir Lake like a memento remaining from those times.
Summer thrones of the Sultans of Anatolian Seljuks were located in Gelendost. As for today, it is one of the “apple cities”!
Boat houses, reebeds and the natural life in the town always presents photographic images. One understands while walking around Gelendost that it worths coming here just for taking the photos of the lake and the fishermen. The most beautiful place of the town is Akbük, the meeting point of Hoyran and Eğirdir Lakes… The small boat house looks like it would join the waters at the end of the reedbeds. When you go down you see that the lake is cuddled by the snowy mountains. For those intrested in historical artifacts, we recommend them to see the Seljukian bridge in Afşar village.
People beleive that the battle of Myriocephalum which opened the gates of Anatolia for Turks had took place in Gelendost and celebrate the victory on 17 September every year.
Gönen
Bağarası small lake is just like a mirror. When looked from a distance, the almond trees in Keçiborlu village reminds of brides with their white and pink flowers. On the upper parts songs of the crocuses start and lambs seperate from their mothers.
Isparta is abundance, it is the tomato red blending with the smell of apple ; it is cherry leaf blending with the taste of apricot. It is the flock of storks flying over the rose field. Gönen is one of the towns having this abundance.
Gönen also made its people abundant like it made its soils. Therefore, the graduates of the village institute, house of the intellectuals, established in 1940 come together in the town every year and celebrate the Bean Festival. On the other hand those who love Yunus Emre commemorate this public sage by the tomb in the grove. By the tomb stands a statue of Yunus Emre. You can enjoy your meal at the restaurant by Bağarası small lake.
Another small lake is Çatak in Kızılcık village. At the weekends in summer it almost always hosts the crowds. Another favorite destination is the park in the centrum. There not many remnants on the earth belonging to the ancient city of Koana located on the east of the town.
Keçiborlu
Keçiborlu means old houses, a gülabdan (rosewater sprinkler) still kept, a censer, a wooden mortar, a coffee grinder, a tobacco case. It means the tyhme seperated in front of the black hair tent, the fresh milk, the ayran (a kind of drink made mixing yoghurt with water) served to the guests. It is sometimes in the taste of helva ( a dessert prepared with sesame oil) and sometimes of the walnut… rose can be smelled but recently lavender scent has also been smelled everywhere.
The name of the town is derived from Kiçiborlu meaning small rocky area (Kiçi: small, Bor: stone) in accordance with its geography. Another claim relating to the roots of the name is that it was derived from the name of Niğde’s town, Bor, as they think people moved here from Bor in the past.
The fate of Keçiborlu was connected to the undergound wealth which was one of the world’s largest sulphur reserves in the past. However, when the mine was closed down due to high production costs, people experienced economic and social problems. The town is one of the leading growers of rose and lavender today. Especially with their purple colour and thorny appearence lavender fields worth seeing in July and August. Planned implementation of organic farming has increased productivity. Keçiborlu is located on the north of Burdur Lake.
Süleyman Demirel Airport is within the borders of the town. If the number of flights increase, more tourists will come to Isparta and the burden on the Antalya Airport will lighten.
Culture and Tomato Festival is organized in the town every year in August. Competetions are held to encourage tomato growers and the festival turns out to be a feast. Tablelends enjoy this festival too. The banks of the stream in Kozluca Taşoluk Plateau is filled with crowds on the feast day. Nomad and Turkoman Feast in Ardıçlı village is another tradition that needs to be seen. In the square around which people make a big circle theatral shows are presented about nomadic life. “Jug camels” in which people hide walk around the area. Horse races are accompanied by drums and horns. Guests tuck in the dishes on the “Feast Menu” which contains pilaf, ayran, grapes and water melon.
In Kaplanlı village, rugs are weaved on the house looms. These rugs with madder wich are the last examples of nomadic handicraft in Isparta have traditional motifs.
The panaromic point of Keçiborlu is where fire watching tower stands on Boyalı hill. The mountains adjacent to Burdur Lake, a few trees which look like green spots on the reddish soil, the villages whose minarets can be seen make this beauty perfect. We should add that all fire watching towers in Isparta are perfect viewing points for wonderful views. However, even in April, snow might not let you climb.
Taşoluk Plateau, the promenade which must be visited in Keçiborlu (at the very buttom). Lvender fels ( below).
Senirkent
Senirkent region was included in Ottoman lands in 1361 and Turks of Kayı branch (Kayı boyu) established the town naming it “the town along the borderline”. The geography it is located on is on the shores of Hoyran which is the northern part of Eğirdir Lake and it has fat soils.
The legend of “Gelincik Ana (Poppy Mother)” told in Ataköy is also arrogated to Senirkent. A group of stones and the surrounding wall located on the north of Barla mountain 10 km from the town is believed to be the tomb of Gelincik Ana (Poppy Mother). We told the first way of telling the story in Atabey section. Let’s tell the second one here: “ In one of the groups of Sarıkeçili nomads going up to the tableland, the father-in-law wants the bride to make a fire. The bride who had put on her first henna at the same point the previous year, brings the three burnt ESİ which she had buried in the earth. However, the faher-in-law does not believe that this fire would burn for a year and thinks that the bride lies at him. The bride, being unfairly accused, throws away the burnt ESİs and prays to God for taking her life and her wish comes true.” Since that time the mountain where the plateau is located has been called Gelincik (Poppy) Mountain and some people come to the point which is believed to be the tomb in order to make wishes and to vow. Maybe because of this, Isparta is the bride lamp which is cleaned as it gets dirty and kept as a memento in the first place in a house although there is electricity in Uluğbey.
Just like its neighbour Uluborlu, Senirkent grows the best cherry. The kind called Napollion Cherry is packed and exported without being earrings on the ears of the girls. Besides cherry, apple, sour cherry, apricot, almond, wheat and barley are grown in the town. In addition, dimrit (a kind of grape) is grown from which raisin is made. Apple, cherry and grape festivals are organized every year.
Tymandos city which is said to have been established in Yassıören in ancient times could not make it to our day. Those going to Yassıören can not find Tymandos but a nice picnic site awaits them there: Değirmenderesi… The 320 year old cedar tree on Barla Mountain still stands today. The tree which is 32 km from the town has a height of 15m and a width of 5.7 m. It was approved to be a Natural Monument in 1994.
Veli Baba Sultan Tomb in Uluğbey is a visitor’s destination having religious and historical importance. While Mustafa Zor Pasha, the commander-in-chief of IV. Murat was assembling troops in Anatolia for the Baghdat Campaign he came to Uluğbey. The point where the tomb is located today was then a graveyard. Upon Veli Baba’s honorings and the miracles he worked Pasha made a command for the construction of a mosque and a tomb on the graveyard. Pasha would die a martyr in front of Baghdat Castle, the construction of the tomb would be completed later, Veli Baba would be buried in here with his ancestors and family. Many stories are told among the people about the saintliness of Veli Baba and a number of people visit the tomb to pray and vow.
Sütçüler
Isparta is the geography blending the heat of the Mediterrennean sun and the cool breezes of the Taurus. It is the women in Güldallı village who are still wearing the belts with sea shells of their nomad ancestors. It is the hope chest opened in Kesme, is the tarhana (a dried food stuff made chiefly of curds and flour used for making soup) laid in front of the doors. It is the girls getting married in 11 –coloured bridal veils. It is the children who call their aunts “gelinbağ”.
Sütçüler covers not only the nature, but also the history and traditions. Dedegöl and the Anamas mountains , Yılanlı plain, and Kovada Lake draw its borders. It promises to satisfy its guests. It shows some around te ancient city of Adada, joins some in a wedding celebration, takes some down to the canyon, hosts some at the dining table and takes some to the waters of the Yazılı Canyon.
The most attractive one of the natural beauties is the Yazılı Canyon, however another canyon, the Köprüçay Canyon can not be ignored. This 20 km part of Turkey’s longest canyon is located between Sütçüler and Serik and it excites the canyon explorers. Wtih its narrowness, hardness to pass and rocks reaching 800 m, it is an adrenaline- increasing canyon trail.
Sanlı plateau on the southeast of the town and Tota plateau in Kasımlar county town are habitats of many endemic plants. It makes you feel more and more happy with its springs and large green lands in spring. The abundent oxygen in the air contributes to this. Karacaören Dome is one of the water sources of Çandır, Melikler and Şeyhler.
Its woods shelter the birds which never stop singing as well as monument trees of hundreds of years. Ulu juniper has celebrated its 1000. age with its periphery of almost 8 m and height of 27 m. It has been approved to be natual monument since 1999. The 700 year-old Çatalçam (a pine) in Belence village is another natural monument. It is set up on a geography by which all nature lovers would be attracted. Sütçüler (meaning “the milkmen”), was named after its inhabitants who moved to big cities and worked as milkmen there. This is for sure affected by the nomadic traditions and the geography. This geography also hosts many historical artifacts and sites. The most significant one of them is the ancient city of Adada which is 2 km from Sağrak Village. Adada is 90 km from Isparta’s centrum. With its view this road attracts every passenger. The name of the town was first used in an agreement signed in the 2.century B.C.; it had its golden agedurin the times of Roman emperors Traianus and Antonius Pius.
There are temples bult in the names of the emperors, an antique road, basilica, monumental fountain, theatre and mausoleums in the city. The excavtions which will be carried out here will reveal the city’s real wealth and strory lying beneath the earth.
Another treasure of history in Sütçüler is the Kocaköy mouments…
The mausoleums located 5 km south of Kesme county town present a breathtaking image while looking at a deep canyon. However, it is sad that they have been destroyed by traesure seekers. Walking the road should be ventured especially when snow falls around. You may prefer to get there on a donkey or a mule or by a tractor. But we recommend you not to set off without a guide from Kesme.
Sülüklü hill in Yeşilyurt village and Taşkapı ruins in the centrum are composed of building remnants. But the ramparts of the structures called Sığırlık castle -one located in Asar street and the other one between Sığırlık village and Çandır- still stand. These structures of early Byzantian time will help you see the geogrphy better. You can take a break and have tea in the cafes under the plane tree in front of Sefer Ağa Mosque in the centrum.
Sanlı plateau on the southeast of the town and Tota plateau in Kasımlar county town are habitats of many endemic plants. It makes you feel more and more happy with its springs and large green lands in spring. The abundent oxygen in the air contributes to this. Karacaören Dome is one of the water sources of Çandır, Melikler and Şeyhler.Its woods shelter the birds which never stop singing as well as monument trees of hundreds of years. Ulu juniper has celebrated its 1000. age with its periphery of almost 8 m and height of 27 m. It has been approved to be natual monument since 1999. The 700 year-old Çatalçam (a pine) in Belence village is another natural monument. It is set up on a geography by which all nature lovers would be attracted. Sütçüler (meaning “the milkmen”), was named after its inhabitants who moved to big cities and worked as milkmen there. This is for sure affected by the nomadic traditions and the geography. This geography also hosts many historical artifacts and sites. The most significant one of them is the ancient city of Adada which is 2 km from Sağrak Village. Adada is 90 km from Isparta’s centrum. With its view this road attracts every passenger. The name of the town was first used in an agreement signed in the 2.century B.C.; it had its golden agedurin the times of Roman emperors Traianus and Antonius Pius.
There are temples bult in the names of the emperors, an antique road, basilica, monumental fountain, theatre and mausoleums in the city. The excavtions which will be carried out here will reveal the city’s real wealth and strory lying beneath the earth.Another treasure of history in Sütçüler is the Kocaköy mouments…
The mausoleums located 5 km south of Kesme county town present a breathtaking image while looking at a deep canyon. However, it is sad that they have been destroyed by traesure seekers. Walking the road should be ventured especially when snow falls around. You may prefer to get there on a donkey or a mule or by a tractor. But we recommend you not to set off without a guide from Kesme.
Sülüklü hill in Yeşilyurt village and Taşkapı ruins in the centrum are composed of building remnants. But the ramparts of the structures called Sığırlık castle -one located in Asar street and the other one between Sığırlık village and Çandır- still stand. These structures of early Byzantian time will help you see the geogrphy better. You can take a break and have tea in the cafes under the plane tree in front of Sefer Ağa Mosque in the centrum.
Traditions are still kept in Sütçüler. The garments of young girls which they wear at the weddings, engagemets and henna nights are amazing. Old women in some villages still wear their caps embellished with gold every day. And every step you make you come across the warmness of the Anatoilan people …
Şakirkaraağaç
Isparta is, to some extend, wishing “long lives for all” of the prostrating old man in Alacamescit Mosque.
Şarkikaraağaç is the nursing home of Isparta. Between spring and autumn wood houses in cedar forest of Kızıldağ host many people having respiratory problems such as asthma and breathing disorders. Tents are put up. Songs of the birds are joine with the joyful voices of the recovering patients. Voices of drums and horns are heard from Kızıldağ in July. “Helva Festival” is celebrated. This celebration is a tradition which brings the people of Şarkikaraağaç together who have the world taste tahin (crushed sesame seeds forming a thick fluid of sesame husks and oil), köpük (foam like dessert), semolina, sesame and flour helvas. Expatriates get back home, hands are kissed (it is a Turkish tradition), the excitement of reuniting covers all.
With the coming of spring, nature gets colourful again in the town. Earth is covered by endemic plants, flowers, storks come to Sarıkaya village, paragliders fly from Büyüksivri. Nomad tents are put up in Sindel plateau in Gedikli village.
There are few historical artifacts in Şarkikaraağaç. Anaburna in Salur village, Neopolis which is thought to have been established in the centrum, Ulu Mosque (Cami-i Kebir) in the centrum was built in 1282 but have undergone many restoration works.
Those visiting the town do not leave without drinking the water of Fele Spring. The spring, located 15 km from the centrum, is a promenade among the trees. Tables are occupied by those who want to taste the local dishes and delicious kebabs. On the roadside, there is an exhibition where of authentic good such as potteries and earthenware jugs part of which are made in the town are sold.
One part of Kızıldağ National Park is within the borders of the town. At the end of summer, rafts set sail towards Mada Island of Gedikli village. They have tractors and hervesting machines on them. Rafts are pulled by boats. After getting in the crop on the island, they turn back in the same way. This voyage can rarely be seen. If you come across full moon falling on the waters in front of the reeds by Beyşehis Lake stop and park your car for a while. You can only rarely see such a unique view.
Uluborlu
Isparta is to some extent, the May (Hıdrellez 5th of May) Festival celebated on the slopes by Cirimbolu acqueduct in Uluborlu. If you ask Alaaddin Mosque in the old neighbourhood, Uluborlu is the castle of Isparta. It is the red lips of the children caught eating cherry giving up them.
If you go up and look down from the hill on which the castle is located you will see the town spread over fat soils. The old town had hidden itself in a small valley on the fringes of Kapıdağı. Whereas today’s Uluborlu is built upon a large plain. The ancient city called Apollonia once upon a time is believed to be buried under the same place. Along with Anthiokheia in Yalvaç, it was one of the two important cities of the Roman Empire. Red wasthe symbol of was and blood in the antique age. As of today, it is the color of the fruit which has become the symbol of the town in 35 years.
Behind the houses whose chimneys begin to smoke in autumn, you realize the trees looking like a fire place with their crimson leaves when they are touched by the sunlight. They are cherry trees which anounces the taste of Uluborlu as well as its name to the world. Golden Cherry Festival is organized in the town every year in the first week of July. While wrestlers are hustling up and down on the field of contest, cherry growers compete by their cherry boxes.
Uluborlu which was included in the lands of the Ottomans in 1361 is one of the towns having the highest numbers of Liberty Medallions with 242 Medallions deserved by the soldiers at the end of the Inependence War. Its castle stands on a big rock and can be seen from everywhere. Next to the castle is Alaaddin Mosque which was made to be built by the grandson of Kılıçarslan and the daughter of Tuğrul Şah. In the valley behind them lays Cirimbolu Aqueduct like a stone necklace. The aqueduct which is 20 m in height was built in order to take the water of Kavil Spring from Kapıdağı to Kale içi in 1872 after a construction work of three years. It did not served not only to bring water but also to walk across as bridge.
The hills looking down Uluborlu are like a botanic garden in spring and are rich working areas for insect scietists. Paragliders can fly from this point .
The hills looking down Uluborlu are like a botanic garden in spring and are rich working areas for insect scietists. Paragliders can fly from this point .
Cherry is the red pearl of Uluborlu. Soils of the town give life to 17 different cherry kinds. This big, tough and sweet cherry which is exported is processed and packed in factories. The fingers of the girls packaging he cherries are so accustomed to this hard task that your eyes can not cacth up with their pace and get tired.
Cirimbolu, both a bridge and an aqueduct (above). Lion statues at the entrance of the park in town’s centrum (opposite). A memory of old Uluborlu: the minaret standing alone (below). Countrysides are full of butterflies in spring (below/right)
Yalvaç
Isparta is, to some extend, being friends with the people we meet while drinking tea in the cafes under the planes in Yalvaç. It is the Eyüpler village where dowries are still exhibited being hung up in the streets and where the bride is still taken away with drums and horns. It is also a place where the bride is set off with best wishes (such as “may God make you rich”).
Yalvaç is the biggest town of Isparta. That it is full of mounds shows that it used to exist even in the very early ages of man. Fossile graves in Tokmacık date back to 8 million years ago. Anthioheia located 1 km north of the town is one of themot important ancient cities in Anatoila. Culture and Artas Festival is organized in the town in May.
On the rocks of Aşağıtartar village of Kumandalı which is 25 km from Yalvaç, rock tombs over which eagles glide look at Hoyran Lake. You can see the partridges jumping from rock to rock, wild pearls and herds of goats proceeding just like a rope. There are wooden restaurants in the willows. The boat house of Aşağıkaşıkara village on the opposite side of the lake is a place photographers can never leave. You can rent a boat here and go to Hoyran islet covered by remanants. Cafes under the planes in Yalva are very famous. They are always crowded. The minarets of Yeni Mosque and Devlethan Mosque look at the planes. After harvest time, voices of drums and horns are heard all the time in the villages. Traditional weddings in Yalvaç are among the most beautiful ceremonies in Anatoila. It is a social meeting during which you can see the dowries of the bride hung up in the gardens and streets and the tradition of “the bridegroom to the night”.
Yenişarbademli
Yenişarbademli is a town between Beyşehir Lake and Anamas Mountains.It stands like a wet blue bead in the intact nature.........
The fishermen make for the lake from the boothouse of Gölkaya Village. The curves on the water give the reflections in the lake a curve and create surrealistic views. However, while going to the town by watching Dedegöl Mountain a few hours ago, it was snowing softly!
The town’s height above the sea level is 1150 meters. Melikler Tableland that is efficient for camping welcomes its guests with natural scenery in spring. The tableland is just the right place for the nature photographers to take the photagraphes of its lake, forest, countryside and river in the same shot. By camping here, you can to go on daily camera safari for a few days. There are not any pansions or hotels in the town but if you can call the office of the Mayor, they may help providing accomodation if you are not crowded.
Although the road of 172 km between Isparta and Yenişarbademli is full of turns, it is worth seeing. You can move in when you see the road sign of Pınargözü Cave that shows 5 km more to arrive the province. When it is 3 km more to arrive the town, you reach Geledos Hill by passing through the dirt road at the end of the highway. When you reach Fire Tower after passing the road of 2 km with its unforgettable view, the wind will welcome you and the blue colour of the lake and the sky will also make your hearth blue. On one side Dedegöl Mountain, on the other side Beyşehir Lake, and the houses of the village that seem small downside.......
Although the road of 172 km between Isparta and Yenişarbademli is full of turns, it is worth seeing. You can move in when you see the road sign of Pınargözü Cave that shows 5 km more to arrive the province. When it is 3 km more to arrive the town, you reach Geledos Hill by passing through the dirt road at the end of the highway. When you reach Fire Tower after passing the road of 2 km with its unforgettable view, the wind will welcome you and the blue colour of the lake and the sky will also make your hearth blue. On one side Dedegöl Mountain, on the other side Beyşehir Lake, and the houses of the village that seem small downside.......
Isparta in History
Concerning the matter of the roots of the name “Isparta”, the word “Sporda” is being widely focused on. In the Arabic sources dating back to XIV. century, the current location of the city is referred to as Saparata. Isparta is located on the meeting point of Central Anatolia, Agean and the Mediterrannean Regions… This region, which is also called “the Lake District” used to be referred to as “Pisidia” in the ancient times.
Excavation works in Kapalıin Cave near Bozanönü Train Staion, revealed a Paleolitic Age ( 35.000- 8.000 B.C) settlement in 1994. Later, in the construction of a railway between Baladız and İğdecik Villages, the mesolitic settlement found under the earth has been another important finding. The settlements found in the excavations in this region have been dated back to 10.000-8.000 B.C.
Excavation works in Kapalıin Cave near Bozanönü Train Staion, revealed a Paleolitic Age ( 35.000- 8.000 B.C) settlement in 1994. Later, in the construction of a railway between Baladız and İğdecik Villages, the mesolitic settlement found under the earth has been another important finding. The settlements found in the excavations in this region have been dated back to 10.000-8.000 B.C.
In the time of Hittits, Isparta and the surrounding region used to be called “Pitaşşa”. Isparta which went under the sovereignity of Phrygians, Persians and Alexander the Great went under the direction of Alexander’s commander Selekuos for a while upon the death of Alexander and then passed into the Romans.
In 1176 Anatolian Seljuks beat Byzantians in the battle of Myriocephalum and conquered the region very soon. Isparta was included in the borders of Karamanoğlu and Ottaman in the following periods. In the Independence War, contributions such as military and civil force, logistic support, services like wounded care made by the people of Isparta were of great significance. Giving an example of heroism with the famous “Demiralay” force in the front, it praised the name of Isparta in country defence.
Isparta Centrum
City of Isparta is located on the west and inner side of the Mediterrennean region. It is somewhat like hiding behind the Taurus Range. It is located in the middle of the Lake District and the neighbours are; Konya’s towns Beyşehir, Doğanhisar, Akşehir to the east, Burdur and its towns Ağlasun, and Bucak to the west; Afyon’s towns Şuhut, Çay, Dinar, Dazkırı to the north and Antalya’s towns Serik and Manavgat to the south. The second largest town after the Centrum is Yalvaç. Aksu, Atabey, Eğirdir, Gelendost, Gönen, Keçiborlu, Senirkent, Sütçüler, Şarkikaraağaç, Uluborlu and Yenişarbademli are the other towns. Isparta of mosques, shrines,
Turkish baths, fountains and old houses leaves it place to modern city. Voices of charming children are heard from Milas promenade. Couples are sailing on the boats on the pond in Gökçay. Cloves which will be exported to Europe are compiled in glasshouses. However, Isparta will never take off its symbol, the rose, from its collar… It is addicted to the rose like a nightingale… The streets are embellished by rose-shaped lamps at nights.
Kapıkaya Ruins which is 5 km from Güneyce village and Baris which has not yet been unearthed due to the lack of excavations take place on the archeological map of Isparta. Aya Baniya (Aya Payana) in Turan Steet and Aya Ishotya (Yorgi) Church whose big bell is exhibited in Isparta museum are the religious structures that are not used today. Among the mosques Ulu ( Kutlu) Mosque, Hacı Abdi (İplik Pazarı) Mosque, Firdevs Pasha ( Mimar Sinan) Mosque and Abdi Pasha (Çinili) Mosque attract attention.
Firdevs Bey Bedesteni (a market where antiques, objects d’arts, jewellery etc. are sold) was built in 1561 with the aim of providing
money for Mimar Sinan Mosque. One side of t is decorated with the Turkish leaders’ busts. Just like the towns, there are saint tombs and shrines in the centrum too. When you go to the Piriefendi Sultan Shrine, do not be surprised if those who are praying there tell you that Piriefendi still lives and wanders among us! However, people believe that seven martyrs are buried in seven different tombs. Many of them think that Kesikbaş Gazi next to Tabakhane Mosque is one of these martyrs.
money for Mimar Sinan Mosque. One side of t is decorated with the Turkish leaders’ busts. Just like the towns, there are saint tombs and shrines in the centrum too. When you go to the Piriefendi Sultan Shrine, do not be surprised if those who are praying there tell you that Piriefendi still lives and wanders among us! However, people believe that seven martyrs are buried in seven different tombs. Many of them think that Kesikbaş Gazi next to Tabakhane Mosque is one of these martyrs.
The main construction material of the old Isparta houses is the stone. Generally two-floored. Those belonging to Turks among these houses can be divided into two: the firt one is called ; Agha houses. Agha’s attendents, grooms and servers used to live ın the place called Tahtani. These are adjacent rooms facing the courtyard. There is anoher part in Agha houses where a large hall called Fevkani is located. Böcüzade Süleyman Efendi House and Tahir Pasha Mansion- house are among these houses.
The second group of Isparta houses is Hanaylı houses. These are the houses in which middle income people lived and under which stables were located. Inside the houses, inset cupboards and in the courtyards food cookstones always existed. Old houses other than those of Turks are Acem houses and Greek Houses.
Ayazmana promenade is famous for its cold waters and the shades of chesnut trees. It is a meeting point whree people come together especially at the weekends. Milas promenade is 10 km fromthe Centrum. The areas surrounding its pools are never empty in summer. Another promenade is Kirazlıdere on the slopes of Hisartepe… One of the modern projects provided to the Isparta people who love promenades is Gökçay… On an
area of 150 acres, there are green grass, and trees, restaurants, picnic sites, hiking courses.
Çayboyu, which has been disfigured by factory and washhouse wastes for years, has been opened to public use with the help of the modern urban projects implemented. With its seats, play garden for children, cafeteria, shops and amphitheatre, it has been much liked by Isparta people.
Gölcük Crater Lake
Isparta is the house of water that brings comfort and joy to man. If you take your breakfast package with you and sit on one of the tables by Gölcük Lake one morning, you can enjoy this feeling. The light looks as if it came to drink some water from the lake. With this beauty and as it is not far from the Centrum, Gölcük hosts cheerful guests especially at the weekends. The lake is surrounded by small hillocks created by the volcano which erupted millions of years ago. The trees on these hillocks and poplars along the lake shore bring this beauty to perfection. The glowing colour of the leaves which turn yellow in autumn provides the visitors of Gölcük with picture-like views. This small lake with a diameter of 1.5 km and depth of 30 m. make people dream when they look at it.
Gölcük, which was approved to be a National Park in 1991 is 5 km from Isparta’s centrum. While you can enjoy the picnic sites for the day, you can also dine yourself at the restaurant by the lake. Milas promenade in Yakaören village which is only a few km from Gölcük is also a very good recration place for families with children.
Beyşehir Lake
Beyşehir Lake is the palace of reflections on the water. If you are in a boat on the lake at dawn then you are experiencing a pastoral poem. Upon the glowing surface of the water you can see the twins of snowy Dedegöl Mountain, flocks of migratory birds flying over the lake, fish in the nets, clouds going down on Büyüksivri Hill of Kızıldağ.The islets on the lake are natural platforms for film shooting. Beyşehir Lake divides its shores within the borders of Isparta into two between Yenişarbademli and Şarkikaraağaç. The lake which was formed by the water filling the large tectonic hollow on the east side of the Anamas Mountains, is not deep. Although the deepest point is known to reach at 12 m., the average depth is 3-4m. It is not deep but with its area of 656km², being the 3. largest lake, it has an important place in Turkey’s geography. It looks like a rectangle, its basin is rather large. Çarıksaraylar Stream, Kabapınar brook, Eflatun (Sarıöz) spring, Temriye Stream and Gürlevik stream sourcing from Pınargözü cave, add to the waters of the lake. The sources within the lake are also added to those. Waters of the lake rise in spring and winter and ebb in summer.
You can go on a cruise on the lake with the fishermen of Gölkonak, the single village of Yenişarbademli. After sailing off the boat house, you come across with rare views. On one side, areas covered with lily pads, on the other side swirling watersnakes… On one side mallards flying over the reedbed on the other side little houses hidden in the poplar grove.
This water treasure which we call Beyşehir Lake, provides every traveller with unprecedented beauties. It therefore must be protected and waters must be used efficiently.
Being one of the most important marshy areas in Turkey, the lake affects the climate of the surrounding area. It welcomes you with cool breezes in summer and, warming the air, it protects you from cold in winter. Little snow falls on the islets and shores and even if it does, it melts quickly. However, frozen reedbeds and the snowflakes on them in winter creates a rare view of nature. This is Isparta’s geography, it presents different beauties in each of the four seasons.
In the past, fish caught in Eğirdir Lake were sold not only in Isparta but also in Konya and Ankara. It is even told that these fish used to be sent to Greece. As for today, fish is not as abundant as it used to be. However, carp, trout, çiçek (flower) fish , gövce, siroz, çamurca and kızılkanat are still found and caught in the lake. Especially pickles of çamurca and kızılkanat are very tasty.
Some islets in the lake belong to Isparta while some belong to Konya. You can get to the islets by the boats from Gölkonak village of Yenişarbademli and Gedikli village of Şarkikaraağaç. Kızkalesi and Mada islets, covered by remnants of the previous ages, are of great interest. Mada islet used to be called Cossacks Islet. Until 1940, Mada was inhabited by Don Cossacks who had migrated from Russia. The church on Kilise (Church) Islet near Mada was built by them. A belief relating the bells of this church still exists among the fishermen of Beyşehir Lake. They believe that the great bell is buried in the depths of the lake and hope that one day they will find it in their nets.
Leaving these beliefs away, we must talk about the language of geography. If you go up to the peak of the Büyüksivri Hill in Şarkikaraağaç, you can see the lake’s panaromic view. This point lays one of Isparta’s most beautiful views before you. On your way back you can have a tea break in Kızıldağ resorts and taste the delicious pide ( a kind of flat bread).
Eğirdir Lake
Eğirdir Lake is located between Beyşehir Lake to the east and Burdur and Acıgöl Lakes to the west. Its width changes between 1.5 and 16 km.The lake is divided into two parts. The smaller part on the north is called Hoyran while the other part is called Eğirdir Lake. These two parts come together in a narrow strait between Akdağ and Barla mountains. The mountains are located as if they are hugging the water in all directions. The lake looks like the letter “S” in sattelite photos. Shores are generally steep but Gelendost and Uluborlu plains and Hoyran shores are rather shallow, and end in reedbeds. Domuz mound on Senirkent side and Kocaçay reedbed on Hoyran side are important points of the ecosystem.
Eğirdir Lake is fed not only by rain and the melting snow. Many fresh water sources also feed the lake. You can even drink water from the “water source in the water” in the rocks on the shores of Aşağı Tırtar village. While you are doing this, you can hear the voice of partrigdes. On your way to Yalvaç from Karatepe, you will see the sign and direction for Aşağı Tırtar village. About 5 km after the sign turn right from the dirt road across the limekilns, after 1 km. you will arrive at the lake shore. A very beautiful excursion spot which appears just like an oasis and a shed -like restaurant where you can eat fish will welcome you. But first, turn left and walk to the lake shore about 500 m. There you will realize a big perforated rock approaching to the lake like a door and the rock tombs on the hills behind that rock. When you get back where you parked your car, who can claim that you didn’t deserve to eat fish? 
One of the most attractive points of the lake whose depth changes between 6-13 m., is the bay called Atatürk in Gelendost Kemer. When you
go up the hill going through the nomad village, you will come across with Akbük which reminds you of a miniature of Dalyan in Köyceğiz. The view of the lake bringing together the reedbeds and the shores is so poetic that you will not hurry up for going down to the fishermen’s shelters.
While 10 kinds of fish were found in the lake in the past, perches thrown into the lake in 1955 have plundered the lake floor. The numbers of Carps, cryfish, herons have decreased. Among these fruitful days, fish over 10 kg can still be caught in the lake.
While the day leaves the earth, the lake looks as if it was painted with a brush that was dipped in gold bath. Watching the boats sail in this golden bowl is so delightful that one can never get enough of it. We must add that the beauty of the full moon rising behind the hills is fascinating. The night which goes from purple to dark blue and from dark blue to black is completed by the light of the silver moon gleaming on the lake.
Kovada Lake National Park
Water changes everything in Isparta… Kovada Lake is added like a little green pocket to the triangle created by Burdur-Eğirdir- Beyşehir Lakes. If you wander around this lake which is located at 30 km south of Eğirdir, coots, wild ducks, and grey herons scared of your voice, will get off from their places under the trees and fly towards to opposite coast of the lake. Isparta is, to some extend, the whispers among the plane trees which surround Kovada Lake like a dark yellow necklace in autumn.
While going to Kovada Lake from Eğirdir town along the channell, apple and cherry trees, colourful poplars, reeds along the water welcome you. Sometimes you go through a mist which covers the road like a white veil. These images are the messengers of a calm lake reminding of a picture painted by an artist called “the Nature”.
Kovada Lake with the surrounding area of 6534 hectares has been one of our National Parks since 1970… It was decared as a 1 level protected area in 1992. The depth of the lake is 6-7 m while the width is 9 km. On the contrary of the other lakes in Isparta, its water is not very clear because of the sediments.
However, thanks to the trees growing among the rocks, it presents beautiful views when looked from the hills around.
The surrounding area of the Kovada Lake is 20.6 km and its height above the sea level is 900 m. There are walking courses around the lake for those who love hiking. Beginning from the small recreational facility of National Parks General Directorate, the short road is a 350 m walking course. Another road beginning at the same point and reaching out to the watch tower is 2.800m. long. Professional travelers can camp by the lake and go for longer walks.
Remember! Be careful that your shoes are proper as the lake shores are rather rocky. Permission of Environent and Forest Direcorate is required for those who wish to camp in groups. Phone: (0246) 228 53 00. Permission is not required for those who camp with a single tent. Bring a sweater even if you will camp in summer.
Kovada National Park is a rich working and recreation place for nature lovers. Many kinds of trees from redpine to juniper; from wild olive to kocayemiş (arbutus unedo) to menengiç (Terebinthina Chia), pırnal meşesi (quercus ilex) constitute the basis of the natural flora. Herbs like wild rose, daphne, blackberry, and boyacı sumağı (rhus cotnus) enrich this structure. The diversity of flora can be observed in wild life, however many animal species have been endangered due to hunting. Yet, you shouldn’t be surprised to see martens, badgers, wild boars, foxes, squirrels or rabbits.
Kovada Lake is an important point for bird watchers as well. Its waters are valuable as it is a watering hole for migratory birds. Wild geese, rudy shelducks, herons, wild ducks, woodcocks come to the lake. If you happen to see bouncing birdson the rocks, know that they are partridges. As for the inhabitants in the water, they are carps, sudak (Lucioperca lucioperca) ,pool fish, eğrez (vimba vimba), velvet fish, eels and fresh water lobsters.
Kızıldağ National Park
In Kızıldağ National Park first lights of the day fall on Beyşehir Lake which lays like a giant mirror between the mountains. Then wake up the carps, watersnakes, swallows, and coots which sleep in the reedbeds. Boats of the fishermen who set off for drawing the nets which they casted at night, spoil the clouds reflections on the lake. Mountain road lovers go for the tablelands for camping.
This region, after which the National Park was named, is 5 km from Şarkikaraağaç and has an area of 59.600 hectares. It also includes some part of Yenişarbademli village and the Anamas Mountains. Transportation is rather easy. Konya- Isparta highway runs from the north of the National Park. In the park, which has a rich ecosystem, there are woods, wetlands, tablelands, fields, canyons, rocky areas and valleys; and there is a wide range of creatures such as thrush, lynx, carp, woodpeckers etc. You can also drive up to the peak of Kızıdağ by a vehicle other than a 4x4, but the curling road and the rocky ground tire the driver.
Prefer the early hours of the day for going up, your car or vehicle might have an increase in temperature. Yet, when you reach at the fire tower on the peak and look down, you will forget about everything. It looks as if it was painted by an artist; the blue beauty lake, the white clouds, the dark blue sky, the fields which meet the shades of yellow, green and brown… Fire watching officers who are on duty between May and October will prepare tea as soon as they se you. It is recommended to take something to eat. Because the beauty of the view will make you stay long and the oxygen will make your apetite whet. Don’t forget to bring something warm to put on even if you go in summer.
In the park, 45% of whose are is wooded, greenand blue cedar trees, blackpine, abies (göknar), juniper, oak and shivery poplars stand up towards the sky. Cedar trees between 1100 and 1800 meters catch the eyes with their cones looking at the sky. The number of medical and aromatic herbs is over 80 in the National Park while, 15% of the flora is endemic. Abundance of oxygen in the air, is a cure for especially those having respiratory problems. Therefore, mountain houses and camp sites on the slopes of Büyüksivri Hill which has a height of 1840 high are crowded with people and tents in summer. If you happen to have such a wish, you can acquire the necessary information from the Municipality of Şarkikaraağaç. Büyüksivri Hill is also a rare gliding point for paragliders.
Among the wood roads and steep rocks in the National Park, there are many pathways that can be “walking line”. One of these is the pathway beginning at the 350 m east of the Melekler plataeu and reaching out to the peak of Dedegöl Mountain. Through this path, you can go to Karagöl which is a glacial lake. It is approved to be a climbing course by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Borders: To the north, centrum of Şarkikaraağaç town of Isparta; to the east, Beyşehir Lake. To the south Beyşehir town of Konya draws the border starting from Kuruocova border goes through Geriş ridge, Gavur hill, Tozan hill, Kuzgun hill, Dedeöl hill. Its border to the east begins with the Üzümkarı ridge and goes through Melikler Plateau, Altınoluk hill, Kızıldağ hill, and other hill and plateaus. Finally it goes down to the road from the east side of Belceğiz village and then leaping over the hills again, reaches to Yeniköy- Çeltek road. Kızıldağ National Park is 120 km from Isparta centrum and 150 km from Konya centrum.
Isparta Museum
Isparta Museum which was enriched with the works founded in such places as Adada, Timbriada, Göndürle Mound, Zindan Cave, being reorganized, was opened to public service.
Throughout history many civilizations like Lydia, Phrygia, Persia, Rome, Byzantine, Seljuks, Hellens, Ottomans existed on the lands of Isparta. This historical heritage has created many works most of which could not reach today or couldn not be found. Some of those which were found are exhibited in Isparta Museum.
The past of the museum dates back to 1933, a time when enlightenment movement spread all over the country in the form of Public Houses. However, upon the closure of Isparta Public House , most of the works were damaged while being carried to the storehouses. Today’s museum has a modern o
utlook thanks to the restoration period that took place between the years 1999-2003.
utlook thanks to the restoration period that took place between the years 1999-2003.
Except for the court, Isparta museum has 4 main rooms. Archeology, Treasure, Ethnography and Carpet rooms… In the enterance of the archeology room, which is the fisrt one of these four, Pisiada tombstone found in Timbriada ancient city, Aksu greets you. Reliefs of man and women on the tombstone stare at you as if they were reminding you of the hairline between life and death. Cube tombs found in the excavations in Göndürle Mound, Eurymedon statue brought from Zindan Cave, statue of Nike, the Roman goddes, bird-eyed and beak-mouthed earthenware jugs, idols, earthenware pots and ornaments are exhibited. The door and the bell of the Aya Yorgi Church and icons of Aya Baniya Church pertaining to the first quarter of the 18. century are also exhibited in this room.
T
reasure room consists of the vitrines in which coins, medallions, and tokens are exhibited. Pisidia region city coins (1.century BC- 3. century A.C), coins of the Roman Empire (30 B.C- 393-423 A.C), coins of Byzatine and Venice (5. cent. B.C.- 15. cent. A.C) are exhibited in one vitrine, while coins of Abbasides, Sasanis, Buveyhoğulları, Seljuks, Memluqs, Ilhanlı, Timur’s Empire, and Ottomans can be seen in another vitrine. In the vitrines which are nicely illuminated, there is also a collection of Ottoman medals and tokens and coin samples published by Sultan Mahmut II. Treasures of Eğirdir which consists of 374 golden Ottoman coins and Karaağaç which consists of 468 silver Ottoman coins are among the significant findings in the collection. The second treasure metioned was found in the construction of a mosque during foundation excavations.
Ethnography room takes you to the times of your grandparents. Being a part of the Anatolian culture, Isparta’s traditions are enlivened with models in this room. While a girl is wanted to be taken away as a bride with “God’s order and the prophet’s agreement” on one side, a henna night is performed on the other side. In front of a black tent, a nomad woman is getting a dough thinner and right outside the room rose oil is produced by old methods. Gülabdans (a small flask for sprinkling rose water), balances, kitchen equipment, guns, edicts, rosaries, and garments belonging to the scond half of the 19. century and to the 20. century can be seen in the vitrines of Ethnogrphy room. Besides Isparta carpets, carpets and rugs of Uşak, Gördes, Bergama, Döşemealtı, Nevşehir, Çanakkale, Kırşehir, Kayseri, Konya and Eastern Anatolia are also exhibited in the Carpet room. In the garden of the museum, there are historical artifacts such as Sidemara sarcophagus, Yassıören tomb steles, Greek epigraphs brought from Isparta and the surrounding area. Among them the faces on the sarcophagus found in the ancient city of Adada will definitely attract your attendence.
Yalvaç Museum
You should spare some time for the museum in which you can see many different constructions such as marble fisherman head and wooden carved doors.
A dog sculpture that was created out of marble by skilled hands staring at you with its widely open-eyes........ A grave stele on which the faces of a couple who wanted to make their love last forever are depicted.........The God of Moon Men which dates back to Mesopotamia ........ The historical Holy Qoran embroided with handwriting..... the Gladiator staying as a relief in the museum garden instead of staying in the gladiator arena.... A golden amphoriscos on which a salamander is embroided....... A lion sculpture seems ready to roar in the entrance.......
All these structures and the others are depicted in Yalvaç Museum. Most of them were found out in the excavations made more than 150 years in Pisidia Antiocheia. The museum open since 1966 has a department of Prehistoric work of art, an Ethnographic Hall in which the works of art belonging to Isparta region are depicted, a Collonade Horseman Exhibition and a garden.
The Department of Prehistoric Works of Art is like the foot steps of Lakes Region in the Antique Age. Along with the earthenware objects(pots, bowls), marble idols, stone axes found out in Çamharman(Köstük) Mount belonging to Bronze Age, the human and animal fossils of 8 million ages found in Tokmacık make contrubition to the the people’s knowledge about the past and the history.
The ruins of the period between the Classical Age and Byzantium Age are depicted in the Big Hall of the museum. The sculptures of the god and goddes, liquor jugs, scent bottles, ornamental fixtures, keresone lamps are all in this mesuem....statuettes depicting mother goddess Cyble who is the Anatolian symbol of power, the idols resembling violin are worth seeing. In addition to goden, silver and bronze coin collections, there are also sculptures and busts in the museum. The crosses thar are the icons of Christianty that was important for a period of time in the region by the influence of St. Paul are depicted in the Big Hall.
The Small Hall is like a ethnographic atlas... Pistols decorated with pearls,.Bindallı (a kind of local cloth) embroided with gilded silver thread, cotton socks, keresone lamps and pistols are shown in the showcases as the memories of the life styles in the past. The armors and helmets are the samples of the war; colourful napkins, uckur, cepken(local waistcoats) and üç etek(local dress) are the samples of elegance. In this section which is enriched with the jewelleries the women, an old house of Yalvaç has been enlivened. Wooden cupboards embroided manually,mantlepieces, brass trays, kitchen utensils and households arouse the feeling that the houseowner will come and sit against you.The under arcade and garden, open sites in which the periods of Roman, Byzans, Seljuk and the Ottoman Empire.....grave steles, altars, epitaphs, relief sculptures, pedestals are arranged in a certain way to be seen easily.
With its blossomed plum trees and roses -if it is spring- and with its structures depicting the Antique Age, Yalvaç Museum is waiting for you to visit it.
Davraz
The snow on Davraz mountain,Lays on the slopes,
Like a white door,
Opening to the sky…
Darkness of the light opens like purple curtain…Then turns into pink, orange, white..Morning in Davraz…Crystalline snow flakes gleam in a great bowl surrounded by trees. A fox is following the foot marks of a rabbit which has just run away. A jeep is climbing up the ramp on the broad snowy road. A rain of light comes and rains upon the mountain, the rocks which are about to be erased by a white eraser, trees which have snow on them, the windows of the hotel from which icicles hang… You narrow your eyes and take your sunglasses out of your pocket. Skiers in colourful clothes are proceeding towards the lifts. Davraz stands under the sun, like a calm, white mumble.
Davraz Ski Resort, 26 km from Isparta’s centrum, hosts large crowds at the wekends. There are those coming from Ankara for skiing and also those coming from Burdur as they hear about the place and wish to see it… Those coming from Isparta for eating Turkish hot dog and also those coming from Antalya for snowboarding… While children scream with joy on the sleights, drinking hot salep (a kind of milky drink) at Kıryaylası Cafe is like a cure for the cold throats. At the hours when fog and mist disperse if you have a look at the horizon from Zirve Cafe you see that Eğirdir Lake is looking at you like a big blue eye.
On the ski rinks with a “lake view” there are ski rinks for both professionals and beginners. There are baby-lifts. Duoble seat chair lift starts at 1674 m and ends at 1961 m. Its capasity is 268 people. This 1211 m.long chair lift carries 1000 people in an hour. The view is so amazing that, not only the skiers but also the guests of Davraz desire to take this short trip. With the 624 m long T Bar, you can go up to 2100 m from 1961 m at the resorts. A carriage system between this upper station and the T Bar has not been built yet. The rinks on Davraz Mountain, whose highest point is 2635 m., are suitable for all kinds of snow activities from the North discipline to Alpine discipline; from tour skiing to snowboard.
There is only one hotel on the mountain but the new resorts to be opened in 2006 are under construction. Hotels in Isparta’s Centrum and on the shores of Eğirdir Lake are also used to host winter guests. It becomes right after Sarıkamış and Palandöken in snow quality. Whiteness is like powder. As you walk towards Keçitepesi at nights, you feel as if somebody is accompanying you. The voice of the smashed snow makes a weird impact. On starry nights, snow crystallites upon which hotel lights fall, look glamorous.
Remember! Snow festivals are organized in Davraz every year in Februrary and March. You can watch skiers carrying torches in their hands, the university students who produce a snow art by building interesting sculptures out of snow, and various ski races. If you go with a group of friends, you can also build a big snow sculpture and become a “Snow Sculptor”. But you should draw and design your sculpture in advance in order to be successful! For information about the festival you can call Isparta Province Culture and Tourism Directorate. Keep it in mind!
Davraz gets very crowded at the weekends (above)
Snow houses are built in the festival (opposite)
Snow quality is high in Davraz (below)
Snow houses are built in the festival (opposite)
Snow quality is high in Davraz (below)
Davraz is one of the the mountain blocks heading up between Eğirdir and Kovada Lakes and encircling Isparta Plain. Its part on the northwest going down on the Eğirdir Lake is called Yürlük Mountain, on the west is called Küçük (Small) Davraz, on the southeast is called Asacak. Ulparçukuru Hill of 2635 m. is the peak of the mountain. Other important mountains in the area are Gelincik Mountain (Barla Mountain) of 2808 m, Dedegöl Mountains Dipoyraz peak 3007., Sultan Mountains Gelincikana Peak 2612 m. The nearest villages to the resort are Çobanisalı (8 km) and Büyükhancılar (20 km).
There are courses ideal for tour skiers on Davraz Mountain. Furthermore, the mountain has trails which allow the climbers in every season of the year. That you can climb up to the peak from three points and that the courses are suitable for both professionals and beginners make Davraz more attractive. Therefore, moutaineers and hikers can camp and exercise on Davraz. The first route of the three routes for climbing up to the peak is the Eastern route which is rather long. This route starts at the resort and going continuously to east, takes you to Küçük (Small) Davraz but it is not used in winter. The starting point of the Western Route is Sav village. Going through the village you arrive at the point where water source is located. It is easy to climb in summer while it requires to have equipment in winter. The Northern Route also starts at the resort. You arrive at Kıryayla first and then Oğlaktaşı. The next point to be reached is the lower part of Ulparçukur Hill. Be careful with the avalanche risk at this route.
Zindan Cave
  Despite its big mouth, Zindan Cave turns into a narrowing long corridor when you go in.
It wouldn’t be wrong to define Zindan Cave as “a stone palace built under the ground by the nature”. To see the cave , you need to take the deep valley road 2 km after Aksu. This great crack is called Aksu Stream Strait and makes you think that there are eagle nests somewhere above your head. When you come across a stone bridge it means that you have arrived at the mouth of the cave. The upper part of the cave mouth looks like a big hole and is jollified between spring and late summer by the songs of the swallows which build their nests out of mud. Babbling of the stream flowing in front of it joins these songs.
 According to St. Paul’s writings, this Christian instructor set off from Perge, followed Aksu and went through the ancient city of Timbriada. The point he reached at was Yalvaç formerly known as Antiokheia. Timpriada’s location is taken as the Asar Hill in Aksu. As the excavations go on, this trip’s stories pertaining to Timbriada will come to earth one by one and many secrets of the history will be enlightened in Zindan Cave.
Zindan Cave is a horizontal cave of 760 m lenght but research have shown that there is another part of 390 m which is not opened to the visitors. There is a world of stalactites and stalagmites in it. It is like a “patience stone” crated by the nature in thousands of years.
In the section called “the bath”, mosaic formed calcit crystals on the floor are very interesting. The voice of the underground water flowing inside and disappearing at a point is echoed in the cave. Located 1300 m above the sea level, the cave implies at the narrowing points of the road inside, that there used to exist an underground river bed.
What differentiates Zindan from other caves is the fact that it used to be used as a place for religius ceremonies.
  It was transformed into a hidden sancturary and temple by closing its mouth in late Roman and early Byzantine times. Excavations carried out in front of the cave unearthed an outdoor worship place, a chapel and a wall. The God sculpture found here is on exhibition in Isparta museum. Köprü Stream goddess Eurymedon was depicted on the mosaic at the enterance. Excavations carried out right opposite to it revealed a monastry as well.
Being a natural and archeological protected area Zindan Cave is open to the visitors with its illuminated corridors.
Atabey Ertokuş Madrasah
  Once, stars, the sun and the moon were studied in the Madrasah. There were scientists studying medicine and besides rigious education mathematics, physics, philosophy and geography were teached as well. In the madrasah which was built upon the command of Seljukian uçbey (ruler) Atabey Ertokuş Gazi in 1224 many university professors were educated during the time of the Ottoman Empire.
When you enter the crown gate of the madrasah which is a typical example of Seljukian architecture, you see an inner court. Around the court are the madrasah rooms and there is a little pool in the middle. The peace of mind created by the voice of the water with the dome’s acoustic was envisaged at the time of planning. Right opposite the enterance gate you will see a tomb room. Madrasah is in the centrum of Atabey town. Walking around the outer court and the garden of the madrasah, you will see “devşirme (folding)” stones pertaining to Roman and Byzantian times and also writings and reliefs on these stones. Columns and capitals brought from the ancient cities of Agrai and Seleukeia Sidera were also used during construction. This building restored by the Directorate of Funds in 1993 is visited as one of the hictorical and important values of Isparta.
 
Pulley Oak Wood
  The soil of Pulley Oak Wood is covered by the leaves and acorns in autumn.
To see the wood you should first go to Yukarıgökdere village which is 27 km from Eğirdir. The village is an apple heaven. If you walk along on the dirt road climbing the hill covered by the woods, you will see that the herds of sheep and the small green lake stays below. The point you will arrive at is Pulley Oak Nature Protection Area. At the same time this place is the home for tousands of squirrels running happily.
Pulley Oak is a tree which grow “as a family”. We call is “as a family” as oaks grow in clusters. Oaks growing very close to each other form groups of fifteen trees. With their height of almost 30 m and log diameters which sometimes go beyond 1.5 m they become monumets. That they grow only in our country makes these trees more valuable. This wood of 1300 hectres was declared as a “Nature Protection Area” in 1987. 218 plant species detected in this area grow between 1300-1900 m. Besides pulley oak, several kinds of trees such as Taurus white fir (köknar), Lebanon cedar, mapple, and mazı meşesi (Quercus infectoria) grow in the area. We should add that it is one of the most beautiful hiking routes in Turkey, especially in autumn…
Epigraphic Canyon
Antiokheia
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One of the places to whic the nature was generous while giving out beaties to the earth Epigraphic Canyon.
“Passenger, get ready and set off but know this; / a free person is the one who is free in himself/ in his nature is the limit of freedom/ and if he is sincere in his decision / if his honesty is within his heart, these make a man noble/ by them is the man glorified, not by the mistakes.”
You can also watch the life circle of the nature in Yazılı Canyon: little yellow spiders spreading to the earth from their webs, rainbow- winged butterflies, taps of woodpeckers accompanied by the songs of the birds, trouts caught in the nets thrown into the waters at the mouth of the canyon, plants whose leaves remind you of a red tiger fur, olanders…and of course the great titmice, hoopoes, European jays….
Pisidia Antiokheia is crowned by the aqueducts looking down at the town.
of the city. Since 1962, the city has started to be famous.
Isparta is in a place where the mountains look at you by fastening their arms. It is the throne of the sultans of rose. It is knowledge of life as well as knowledge of roses,; it is knowledge of imagination as well as knowlegde of life. Therefore there are also legends about the roses in the mountains. It is told that once upon a time a dervish cultivated a rose on the hill of the mountain. Many roses bloomed there making the mountain a rose garden. Since then this mountain has been called Dedegül( which means the rose of the dervish), and the natural place on which a black and a green lake locate has been called “Dedegöl”( which means the lake of the dervish)
Every traveller wants to quaff the water gushing from the mouth of Pınargözü Cave. This water has a charactersic further than its taste and clarity. It comes from the depths of the longest cave ever discovered in Turkey. Pınargözü Cave with its 12 km length is favorite of the researchers. It is on the northern side of Dedegöl Mountain and in Çaydere forests. It is 8 kilometers from Yenişarbademli. The depth of 720 meters between the beginning and the end of Pınargözü which is within the borders of Kızıldağ National Park makes it the third deepest cave in Turkey. As result of the research in the cave since 1965, underground streams, .cascades, lakes and a big waterfall have been found in the cave. The temperature of the water in the cave changes between +4 and –5. Spending even a few hours in the picnic sites surrounded by trees and waterfalls will relax you.
Isparta is a place where you can hear the heartbeats of the mountains when you lean your ears against the places near to the summits. It is a place where the bread is still shared with the unexpected visitors and the people work together for the community. It is the crossroad of Silk Road, King Road and St. Paul’s Road. It is the geography where the skiers and the mountineers, the hikers and the village people still greet each other. In short Isparta is the traveller’s joy of existence.
When the soil warms up, the crocus come out the earth going through the leaves on the land which fell in the autumm.
Isparta is a place where the folksongs are sung in lake shores and harvest fields during Hıdırellez(spring festival 5-6 May) and Henna nights. Some exaples of folksongs: “the buckets of the wells are made of juniper” “where is my 50gr leek?” “Is black tent sooted?”, “Harmandalı”( a kind of folkdance in Aegean Region). While the hope chest of the bride is opened, the bride’s aunt says a ditty: “I have cultivated cabbage in the land/ the wind divieds the leaf/ I can not leave my lover/ only god seperates me from my lover......”
The weddings in which the dowry is shown and the family of the bridegroom comes with drums and ho rns to take the bride become the most beautiful of these festivals with the participation of the girls with their colourful dresses. The weddings in Yalvaçlar and Sütçüler Villages take place when the harvest time ends. While there are no instruments in some weddings , you hear the voice of the drums and the horns, string instruments, clarinet and tabor in others. The wedding ceremonies last three or four days starting on Thursday and ending on Sunday “when the bride leaves her family house”. In Isparta everybody helps each other during the wedding ceremony. The table is set, the dowry is shown all together.When the guests think that the dowry is so little, they joke with the mother of the bride and say like this: “while the daughter is growing up, her mother has slept/ the spiders and spirals/ have walked on the wall!( some kinds of jokes). On Friday the female relatives of the bride and the bridegroom stand on the “Bride Turkish Bath” road. The musicians make music and they all sing songs.
On Friday evening, the Henna Night takes place. The wedding customs change according to the provinces. To give an example, at Henna Night, the henna that was bought by the family of the bridegroom is put into the hand of the bride whose face is covered with a red scarf. However in Senirkent, the henna is put into the hands fifetheen days before the wedding ceremony. In Eğridir, the bride dowry is taken to the bridegroom’s house and shown there. In Sütçüler, the males enjoy themselves around the fire they have made in the public square of the vilage or in the garden. In Eğridir, Yalvaç, Sütçüler and Şarkikaraağaç the bride wears a pink or white silk wedding dress.
The geography of Isparta has an important effect on the cuisine of Isparta. It has such an important effect because the delicious meat of the animals that are raised on open pastures; the vegatables ,fruit and grains of the fertiled lands are served to the same table. The smell of the lake fishes cooked in the ovens mix with the nomads’ gusto. The local sugar used in deserts for example in semolina halva(a kind of Turkish desert) gives an extra delicious taste to the deserts.
The best of cherries, apples, apricots, sour cherries, almonds, grapes, pears are all grown in Isparta. Masses of corn, pea, wheat, grain, sugar beet, potato, tomato are cultivated on the fertiled lands of Isparta. This fertility is also reflected to food. Opening is made with soup after a glass of water in dining tables. Tarhana Soup (crushed wheat soup), milky “Oğmaş”, “Tutmaş”, meaty “Toyha”, “Arpaaşı”(food prepared by using barley, chicken and hot pepper), “Desert stuffed with semolina”, Pirinchli Düğün”(soup of rice), “Yayla”(soup of pastures) are always at the tables in Isparta.
The other famous meat-based dishes are “Tas Kebab”, “Çömlek Kebab”, “Kapama”(lamb steewed in a covered pot with lettuce and fresh onions), “Banak”, “Tirit”. Keshkek(an ancient dish prepared with barley) is cooked in a large pot with beef and suit. Fish dishes of Isparta are also original. The cookers of Eğirdir are specialized in cooking fish dishes. “Balık Doldurması”(fish stuffed with rice) is prepared by stuffing g a big fish with ingrident including rice, onion, parsley, mint, cinnamon, pinenut, mincemeat and olive oil. “Kapama” (lamb steewed in a covered pot with lettuce and fresh onions) also called “Papaz Fricassee”, “Papaz Yahnisi”( carp stuffed with rice) and “Fish Kurması”(a kind of dish of fishes) are other famous dishes..... When it comes to trout, the trout taken from pools in fishing farms or the ones fished in streams with nets are cleaned then cooked in oven with pale yellow cheese. It becomes a very delicious dish.
When it comes to vegetable dishes, “Zucchini” prepared with tomato, oil and onion; “Şalgamaşı ”( a dish made of turnip), “Oturtma” and “Yatırtma”( dish made of ground meat and vegetables), “Sirken Otu” (a kind of vegetable like purslane) “Dolma”(Dolma " is a name applied to such vegetables as grape leaves, cabbage leaves, and green peppers, zucchini,eggplant, tomato stuffed with spiced rice ) come to mind.....
What about the “Böreks” ( Böreks are pies of flaky pastry stuffed with meat, cheese or potatoes) ; “Gatmer “(Sweet filo pastry with walnuts), “Pishi”( frying dough), “Silim Börek”, “Kuyrulu Börek”, “Sac Böreği”(Börek cooked on boiler plate), “Shepit Börek” are some of the delicious pasteries in Turkish cuisine. Each of these pasteries is made by the skilled fingers that can roll out slimm dough very well.
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