Zigana Pass, Mountain pass at 2032 meters in Pontic Mountains, Turkey.
Zigana Pass sits at 2032 meters (6667 feet) in the Pontic Mountains and connects Gümüşhane Province to Trabzon Province. Below the mountaintop runs a tunnel built in 1988 at 1795 meters (5889 feet), providing an alternative route for year-round travel.
The pass served as a key route on the Silk Road, with merchants traveling to Trabzon's port to trade goods between Eastern Anatolia and Iran. This trade connection shaped regional commerce for many centuries.
Local stories speak of merchants and travelers who journeyed through this passage centuries ago, shaping how people today view this mountain crossing. The pass remains a symbol of connection between the coastal and inland regions of the country.
The pass experiences heavy snow for five months each year, making the tunnel a more reliable option during winter travel. Visitors should prepare for changing weather and bring appropriate clothing for mountain conditions.
Beyond serving as a transport route, the pass has become increasingly popular for winter sports activities in recent years. Its location near Zigana village makes it an accessible destination for those seeking mountain recreation.
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