Malazgirt Victory’s 953rd anniversary celebrations kick off in Ahlat, Türkiye

The small Turkish town of Malazgirt is hosting a grand celebration to mark the 953rd anniversary of Malazgirt Victory. The festivities, centered at Malazgirt National Park, feature a vibrant display of dozens of traditional yurts. The event kicked off with a colorful ceremony at the 1071 Sultan Alparslan Tent in Carho.

In the Sultan Alparslan Tent, 51 yurts represent various provinces, showcasing their cultures through exhibitions. Over the next two days, visitors can enjoy horseback riding games, performances, exhibitions, and concerts.

In honor of the anniversary, the Turkish Air Forces Command’s aerobatic team SOLOTURK also performed an impressive airshow. Ahlat Mayor Yavuz Gulmez, speaking at the event, emphasized Ahlat’s significant role in history, stating, “Ertugrul Gazi, the father of Osman Gazi, was born here in Ahlat. Throughout history, scholars, sages, and spiritual leaders in Ahlat have played vital roles in establishing the Islamic presence in Anatolia. This event serves to pass on the inspiration we draw from our history to future generations.”

Haydar Ali Yildiz, chairman of the Trustees of the Archers’ Foundation, remarked, “Our ancestors spread justice, peace, harmony, and brotherhood from Ahlat to Anatolia and from Malazgirt to the world. As we build the ‘Century of Türkiye,’ we draw strength from our history, civilization, and faith.”

Bitlis Governor Erol Karaomeroglu also highlighted Ahlat’s importance, saying, “Ahlat is the name of the holy land where the Turkish nation’s progress in Anatolia began. Sultan Alparslan’s courage and our nation’s determination turned Anatolia into our eternal homeland.”

The event also featured traditional games and activities, including horseback performances that captivated the audience. Visitors were able to meet with the Van Gendarmerie Mounted Units, who took photos with them.

What is significance of Malazgirt Victory?

The Battle of Malazgirt, fought on Aug. 26, 1071, between the Great Seljuk Empire under Sultan Alparslan and the Byzantine Empire under Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, is considered a pivotal moment in history.

Alparslan’s decisive victory opened the gates of Anatolia to the Turks, leading to a significant migration into the region. This defeat was disastrous for the Byzantines, triggering internal strife and an economic crisis that weakened their border defenses.

By 1080, the Seljuk Turks had seized a vast 78,000-square-kilometer area, altering the course of history. Malazgirt was the first time a Byzantine emperor became a prisoner of a Muslim commander, marking a turning point in the region’s power dynamics.