Kahramanmaraş, located in the southeastern part of Turkey, is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and most famously, its Maraş Ice Cream (dondurma). The city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including mountains, rivers, and forests, making it a great destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Places to Visit in Kahramanmaraş:
- Kahramanmaraş Castle: This ancient castle offers panoramic views of the city and has been a strategic location for centuries, dating back to the Roman and Byzantine periods.
- Eshab-ı Kehf Cave: Believed to be linked to the famous story of the Seven Sleepers, this cave is a pilgrimage site and offers a peaceful atmosphere with historical and religious significance.
- Germanicia Mosaics: Discovered in the city center, these Roman-era mosaics are incredibly detailed and depict daily life from ancient times.
- Kaparli Waterfall: A hidden gem for nature enthusiasts, the waterfall offers a scenic escape surrounded by lush greenery.
- Great Mosque (Ulu Cami): Built during the Dulkadir Beylik era, this mosque is an architectural masterpiece with its traditional Islamic design.
Traditional Foods in Kahramanmaraş:
- Maraş Ice Cream (Dondurma): The city’s most famous culinary product, made from goat’s milk and salep, known for its chewy texture.
- Tarhana Soup: A traditional, hearty soup made with fermented grains and yogurt.
- Maraş Kebab: A local favorite, this dish is rich in flavor and is typically grilled to perfection.
City Transportation:
Kahramanmaraş has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and minibusses (dolmuş), making it easy for travelers to navigate the city. Taxis are also readily available, and the city’s relatively compact size allows for easy exploration on foot.
Visiting Kahramanmaraş felt different from the other Turkish cities I had explored. What stood out the most was how deeply rooted the people are in their traditions. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs like Istanbul or Antalya, the pace of life here is slower, more relaxed, yet incredibly warm. The locals were quick to offer a smile or a helping hand, and it wasn’t long before someone pointed me in the direction of the best place to try the famous Maraş Ice Cream.
One thing that sets Kahramanmaraş apart is how authentic everything feels. It’s a city that hasn’t been overly commercialized, and there’s a sense of pride in preserving its cultural heritage. Exploring the old streets and the marketplace, I felt a genuine connection to the past, especially when visiting the Germanicia Mosaics a testament to the city’s rich Roman history.
Another highlight was the Eshab-ı Kehf Cave. While there are many pilgrimage sites throughout Turkey, this one felt particularly serene, nestled away from the chaos of the modern world. It felt like a place where time stood still.
The people of Kahramanmaraş have a distinctive hospitality that makes visitors feel more like family than tourists. I noticed a special attention to detail in every conversation, whether it was about the best tea in town or a casual chat about daily life. It’s a place where you can slow down, take a deep breath, and enjoy the moment something I don’t often find in bigger cities.
