Kahramanmaraş Province

Kahramanmaraş is a province in southeastern Turkey comprising eleven districts spread across mountains, plateaus, and plains. The Southeastern Taurus Mountain range dominates much of the landscape and shapes the terrain significantly.

The area served as the capital of the Hittite kingdom of Gurgum in the 12th century BCE, known to Assyrians as Markasi. Over subsequent centuries it passed through various ruling periods before becoming an important region in southern Turkey.

The province is known for its carpet and textile craftsmanship, with workshops and markets displaying these traditional skills throughout towns and villages. These practices shape the daily rhythm of local commerce and community life.

Visiting is best during spring or fall months when temperatures are comfortable and mountain roads are easiest to navigate. The province is well-connected by road, and local markets offer good opportunities to shop for food and handcrafted items.

The region is a major center for pistachio cultivation, with the local cuisine making heavy use of this nut in both sweet and savory dishes. Visitors can purchase fresh pistachios in the bazaars and taste traditional recipes that highlight this ingredient prominently.

Location: Turkey

Capital city: Kahramanmaraş

Part of: Hatay Subregion

Shares border with: Sivas Province, Malatya Province, Adıyaman Province, Gaziantep Province, Osmaniye Province, Adana Province, Kayseri Province

Website: http://kahramanmaras.gov.tr

GPS coordinates: 37.89833,36.97111

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:01