Adiyaman

Adiyaman, in southeastern Turkey, was originally founded in the 7th century A.D. and settled by Omayyads of Damascus, Abbasids of Baghdat, Selcuks, Mongols, Memluks, and Ottoman Turks. Of interest in the city is the Adiyaman Citadel which dates back to the 8th century A.D. and the 16th century Abdulgani Mosque, an Islamic religious building.

Tourists mostly come to Adiyaman to visit the biggest attraction in the region, Nemrut Dagi (or Nemrut Mountain). The site was constructed by the Roman Antiochus I, king of the small Commagene civilization, as his own final resting place. Giant-sized head statues of Apollo, Fortuna, Zeus, Herakles and Antiochus I atop the highest peak of the mountain make an impressive sight. The king traced his descent to the gods through Alexander the Great. There are also eagle and lion statues. Among the numerous reliefs, one of the most striking is the constellation Leo on the west terrace.

Nearby Karakus tumulus, surrounded by carved pillars with animal motifs, is said to be the burial site of the Commagene royal women. One column carries a sculptured black eagle on the top; thus, the name karakus (“black bird” in Turkish) was given to the site.

On the road to Kahta village (ancient Arsameia) is the 300 feet long single-span Roman Era Cendere Bridge over the Kahta Cayi (ancient Nymphaium River).

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