Why Visit Sivas?
Sitting at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Anatolia, Sivas is a city that rewards curious travellers. It blends layers of Hittite, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman history with a warm, authentic hospitality that larger tourist cities often lack. If you're planning a trip, here's where to start.
Must-See Landmarks
Divriği Ulu Camii & Darüşşifası (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
About 175 km southeast of the city centre, the Great Mosque and Hospital of Divriği is one of Turkey's most extraordinary buildings. Built in 1228–29 during the Mengüjekids era, its stone-carved portals are considered among the finest examples of medieval Islamic architecture anywhere in the world. The intricate floral and geometric reliefs covering every surface are breathtaking. Plan a half-day trip and combine it with the scenic drive through the Euphrates valley.
Gök Medrese (Blue Seminary)
Right in the heart of Sivas city centre, the Gök Medrese was built in 1271 under the Seljuk vizier Sahip Ata Fahreddin Ali. Its twin minarets and ornately carved entrance portal are iconic. The building now houses the Sivas Archaeological Museum, making it a double attraction — great architecture and a fine collection of regional artefacts under one roof.
Şifaiye Medresesi (Darüşşifa)
Also dating from the Seljuk period (1217 AD), this former hospital-school complex was commissioned by Sultan İzzeddin Keykâvus I, who is actually buried here. The courtyard is open to the sky, and the proportions of the arched iwans create a serene, timeless atmosphere. It is one of the earliest known hospitals in Anatolia.
Buruciye Medresesi
A short walk from Gök Medrese, the Buruciye Medresesi (1271 AD) offers another fine example of Seljuk craftsmanship. It now functions as a small café and cultural space inside — a lovely spot to sit with a tea and soak in centuries of history.
Day Trips from Sivas
- Kangal Fish Springs (Balıklı Kaplıca): Famous worldwide for the small Garra rufa fish that nibble dead skin — a natural therapy experience set in thermal spring pools about 90 km from the city.
- Hafik Lake: A peaceful natural lake surrounded by rolling hills, ideal for picnics and birdwatching in spring and early summer.
- Zara District: A quieter rural area with traditional villages, Ottoman-era bridges, and beautiful highland scenery.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Best time to visit: Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer mild temperatures and clear skies.
- Getting there: Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport connects to Istanbul and Ankara. The city is also a major stop on Turkey's high-speed rail (YHT) network.
- Getting around: The city centre is walkable. For Divriği and other day trips, renting a car or joining a local tour is recommended.
- Language: English is limited outside hotels. A translation app and a few basic Turkish phrases go a long way.
Final Thoughts
Sivas is not a city of crowds and souvenir shops — it is a city of genuine depth. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history lover, or simply someone who wants to experience authentic Turkish Anatolian life, Sivas delivers in a way few cities can match.