Hiking at Mount Nemrut
Discover the history of Mount Nemrut Mountain, where the remnants of the past are a treat for your curious mind. Witnessing this mountain's incredible sunrise and sunset is one of the best things to do in Turkey. Here you will find magnificent sculptures, including giant heads built in the 1st century B.C. under the Commagene Kingdom. (Commagene is an ancient Greco-Iranian kingdom, which is led by a Hellenized branch of the Iranian Orontid dynasty.) Mount Nemrut statues are iconic highlights that reflect the spirituality, history, and artskills at the same time. Tourists from all over the world take Mount Nemrut tours to experience a unique blend of history and mystery.
These are marks of history, and numerous mysteries revolve around them. Questions like why they were made and the purpose behind the building still amaze tourists. However, it is said that this mountain is a temple tomb and house of the gods, which was built by late Hellenistic King Antiochos. The Royal tomb has various erected structures, including the Goddess's head, lion's head, king's head, Persian eagle head, and many more. It is believed by the Archeologists that Mount Nemrut was a sacred site for the people of Commagene.
These structures are around 6 tons in weight, and their height is approximately 10 m. Mount Nemrut is considered one of the iconic ancient sites known as the Mountaintop Tomb. Apart from discovering the statues and structures, you can behold the fantastic view from here as it is around 7,000 feet above sea level. And from knowing the fascinating history to clicking beautiful pictures with such incredible backgrounds (head structures), a trip to this mountain is eventful. In short, Mount Nemrut is a fantastic tourist spot in Turkey that will stun you from every side.
Overview
| Location | Southeast region of Anatolia, Turkey |
| Official Name | Nemrut Dağ |
| Area | 11 Ha |
| Built in | 1st century BC. |
| Elevation | 2,134 m |
Highlights
- Get a spectacular sunrise and sunset.
- Enjoy photography with unique backgrounds (giant stone heads).
- Know about the fascinating history of Mount Nemrut.
- Discover the stone ruins and heads of the deities and much more.
- Visit Arsameia, a summer residence of the rulers of the Commagene.
- Explore the nearby historical landmark and burial site - Karakus.
About Mount Nemrut
Mount Nemrut is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated at a height of around 7,000 ft. in southeastern Turkey. It was assumed as the royal tomb of King Antiochus I, who was known to support the cult as a propagator of salvation and happiness. Therefore the ruins and structures at Mount Nemrut are the monuments related to the imperial cult. However, the highlight of Mount Nemrut is the tomb of Antiochus I. And the grave is decorated with colossal statues that are made of limestone. For a better travel experience, it is advised to carry a Mount Nemrut Map that helps you a lot in figuring out the sites perfectly.
The Site of Mount Nemrut
Ancient history, civilization, and religions are believed to be heavily connected with these statues. Multiple structures and statues are found here apart from the giant heads. And you can find out that the heads of the figures were separated from the body. Most of them are scattered all over the sites. You can find here two lions, two eagles, and various composite Greek and Iranian gods. In addition, these gods are Heracles, Artagnes, Ares, Zeus, Oromasdes, Apollo, Helios, and Hermes.
Apart from structures, the site is home to slabs with bas-relief figures (sculptures with less depth to the faces and figures). For example, on the Western terrace of this mountain, you will find a large slab with a lion and an arrangement of stars. Besides that, three big stars can be seen on the back of the animals, which are interpreted as an illustration of three planets: Jupiter, Mercury, and Mars. Moreover, you can find many Mount Nemrut facts which depict its historical significance and connection to mythology.
Interesting Facts about Hiking at Mount Nemrut
- This last resting spot of King Antiochus I is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- The archeologists accepted that Mount Nemrut was a holy site for individuals of Commagene.
- Being the highest-ranked God, Zeus is the largest structure in the central position.
- There are many heads of Greek gods, kings, Persian eagles, and lions.
- Sunset and sunrise are considered the best time to visit Mount Nemrut.
- Mount Nemrut is a massive site with a 49-meter-tall tumulus (mound of earth and stones raised over graves).
Popular Turkey Tour Packages
FAQS of Mount Nemrut
Ans: Mount Nemrut is situated around 70 km from Adiyaman, the nearest major city. The city has its airport, and you can take a flight from Istanbul to Adiyaman. After reaching Adiyaman, you can hire a taxi from the Adiyaman airport to reach Mount Nemrut. You will cover Karakus Tomb, Cendere Bridge, and Arsameia before going to the site.
Ans: The ideal time to plan your trip to Mount Nemrut is between April to October. During this time, the roads are free from snow, and the weather is pleasant for exploring the site.
Ans: There are numerous attractions that you can explore along with your Mount Nemrut tour. Arsameia, Castle Viewpoint, Severan Bridge, and Karakuş Tumulus.
Ans: Hiking boots, comfortable clothes, water bottles, a head torch, and a camera are essential things to carry for Mount Nemrut. If you plan your visit to Mount Nemrut in autumn and spring, the morning and evening are cold. Therefore, it is advised to carry a hoodie and some warm layers of clothes.