What is Batman famous for? (72)
1. What should be known about Batman?
Batman is considered the cradle of Mesopotamia. It is a city that has witnessed history along the Dicle River in Turkey. Batman became Turkey's 72nd province in 1990 when the districts of Beşiri, Kozluk, and Sason from Siirt, and the districts of Hasankeyf and Gercüş from Mardin, were merged into it.
Batman borders Muş, Diyarbakır, Bitlis, Siirt, and Mardin. It consists of six districts: Merkez, Kozluk, Sason, Beşiri, Gercüş, and Hasankeyf. Its history dates back to the Sumerians. The city is also believed to have sunk underground over time due to its swampy terrain. There is also a belief that Batman's name is derived from the Turkish verb "batmak," which means "to sink.
2. When should you visit Batman?
Batman experiences the characteristics of a continental climate. Winters are harsh and cold, while summers are hot and dry. Therefore, the best times to visit Batman are during the spring and autumn seasons.
3. How to get to Batman?
By Air: For those wishing to travel to Batman by air, Batman Airport is available. The airport is located 7 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights are available almost daily from Istanbul and Ankara.
By Rail: For travelers who enjoy train journeys, it is possible to reach Batman by rail. Batman Train Station is located in the city center. The Haydarpaşa-Kurtalan Railway Line passes through the city.
By Road: It is possible to reach Batman by bus from any city in Turkey.
4. How is urban transportation in Batman?
Batman has a relatively more developed transportation network compared to other southeastern provinces. Public transportation within the city is provided by municipal buses, minibuses, and dolmuş (shared taxis). There are a total of 74 municipal buses operating in the city. These buses also facilitate easy access to districts and villages.
5. What should you eat and drink in Batman?
Batman’s famous dishes include Sham Böreği (a type of pastry), Mumbar Dolması (stuffed intestines), Mehir (a traditional bread), Perde Pilavı (pilaf baked under a pastry crust), Tandır Ekmeği (tandoor-baked bread), Tırşık (a vegetable stew), Batmanzade (a local specialty), and Kurutulmuş Sumaklı Dolma (dried sumac-stuffed vegetables).
So where can you experience these flavors and more?
Çömçe Lokantası: This is the oldest restaurant in Batman, offering many of the region's traditional dishes. It's recommended to try their sac tava (a type of pan-fried meat) and güveç (a traditional stew).
Address: Cumhuriyet, Atatürk Blv. No:32, Batman
Petrol Cafe: With several branches in Batman, the most recommended one is in the city center. It is favored for its green surroundings and can be visited for breakfast or to enjoy local dishes later in the day.
Address: 21 2907. Sokak Site Mahallesi Merkez, 72040 Batman Merkez
İnanoğlu Baklava: Known for its high-quality baklava, this place is renowned for making baklava that lives up to Gaziantep standards. It has been serving for nearly 20 years.
Address: Meydan, Atatürk Blv. No:41, 72050 Batman Merkez
Xalo Hayran Ciğer Salonu: One of the best places in Batman to enjoy liver dishes. You can try their ciğer kebabı (liver kebab), ciğer tava (fried liver), and ciğer şiş (skewered liver).
Address: Yeni, 1008. Sk. No:7, 72050 Batman Merkez/Batman
6. What are the must visit places in Batman?
Hasankeyf: One of Batman's most significant treasures, Hasankeyf holds great importance globally. This ancient city has witnessed historic battles and hosted thousands of years of civilizations. With a history spanning 11,000 years, this heritage, dating from the Neolithic era to the present day, has been protected since 1981.
Hasankeyf
Hasankeyf Castle: Located within Hasankeyf, this castle stands on a 135-meter high hill along the banks of the Tigris River. Notable for its majestic architecture and steps, it is one of the most striking features of the ancient city, adding to its historical charm.
Hasankeyf Castle
Hallan Çemi Mound: This site dates back to the Neolithic period and is one of the oldest historical mounds in the region. Known locally as Çemi Holla, it was discovered by American archaeologists in the 1980s. Excavations at Hallan Çemi have revealed significant Neolithic artifacts.
Bozikan Castle: Located in the Sason district of Batman, this castle does not have an inscription, but its architectural style suggests it was built in the 4th century, according to historians.
Malabadi Bridge: Though located in Diyarbakır, this historic bridge spans the Batman Stream and is situated near the border of Diyarbakır. It was constructed by the Artuqid dynasty in 1147 and is an important historical structure in the region.
Malabadi Bridge
Sason Plateau: The locals in this area make their living through livestock and dairy farming. Expect to encounter animals and local villagers during your visit. Be sure to try the local tulum cheese made by the residents.
Mereto Mountain: One of the most popular trekking routes, with an elevation reaching 3,000 meters above sea level. It's a must-visit spot for panoramic photography.
7. What can you do in Batman?
İmam Abdullah Commemoration Days – June
Walnut, Strawberry, and Honey Festival – October
Hasankeyf Culture and Art Festival – December
Yılmaz Güney Short Film Festival – December
8. What should you buy from Batman?
Sason Honey, Batman Carpets and Kilims, Batman Textiles, Sason Walnuts, Handmade Dolls, Mohair Prayer Rugs, Blankets, Needle Lace, Lacework, and Woolen Socks are local souvenirs you can purchase.
9. Where to stay in Batman?
Batman, though a small city, has a rich list of places to visit. Many of these attractions are located in the districts, with some also in the city center. If you plan to stay in Batman, consider choosing Grand Hasankeyf, Atlıhan Park Hotel, or Hotel Bozooğulları for your accommodation.
10. What to be aware of while traveling in Batman?
In almost every province in Turkey, you can use the Museum Card issued by the Ministry of Culture to gain free entry to museums, castles, and historical sites in Batman.
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