Medieval Muslim cemetery of Ahlat, Medieval Muslim burial ground in Ahlat, Turkey
The cemetery in Ahlat is a large burial ground with thousands of gravestones made from volcanic stone, used from the 12th to 16th century. The stones are arranged at different heights across a wide area near Lake Van.
The burial ground was established during several major empires that ruled the region, including the Seljuks, Mongols, and Safavids. Each period left its own traces in the gravestones and their designs.
Each gravestone displays carefully carved geometric patterns and Arabic inscriptions that reflect the craftsmanship of medieval Islamic culture. The carvings tell stories of the people buried here and show how much beauty and artistry mattered in this place.
The cemetery is easily accessible near the road connecting Bitlis and Van. Visitors will find a museum and other attractions nearby that make a longer stay worthwhile.
Beneath many gravestones are underground burial chambers called Akits, a fascinating feature of this cemetery. These hidden chambers show how elaborate burial practices were during that era.
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