Work on Türkiye’s Hasankeyf Archaeopark, Shahap Valley nears completion
Work on Archeopark and Shahap Valley in Batman's historic Hasankeyf district reaches final stage, Türkiye, August 8, 2024 (AA Photo)
The projects for the Archaeopark and Shahap Valley in the historic district of Hasankeyf in Batman are approaching their final stages.
These initiatives, led by the State Hydraulic Works (DSI), have involved relocating historical artifacts from the Veysel Eroglu Dam’s reservoir area to the Archaeopark and enhancing Shahap Valley for tourism.
Within the scope of the project, extensive environmental and landscaping work has been carried out in the Archaeopark, including the illumination of historical artifacts, the construction of a port and the replication of Kale Street from old Hasankeyf between Er-Rizk Mosque and Kizlar Mosque.
Additionally, social areas such as cafes, shops, mosques, bridges and seating areas have been developed in Shahap Valley.
DSI Ilisu Project Regional Director Cihan Aksoy stated, “We are striving to turn the Archaeopark into an open-air museum.”
He noted that the transportation of these artifacts is one of the largest monument-moving operations globally.
The process began in 2017 with the relocation of the 550-year-old Zeynel Bey Tomb and has continued with the transfer of other historical artifacts and the preservation and restoration of the Yamac Complex.
Aksoy emphasized that social and cultural spaces, including terrace cafes and an amphitheater, are also nearing completion.
“We are recreating old Hasankeyf within the Archaeopark area. With these efforts, Hasankeyf will become a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists,” he said.
Additionally, the area known as “Upper Hasankeyf,” including the Little Palace, Great Mosque, Big Palace, and various other structures, has been placed under protection.
A 95-meter-long bridge has been constructed between Shahap Valley and the Yamac Complex. Aksoy reported that over 40,000 tourists visited the site in the first four months of the year, with numbers expected to continue growing.
With these projects, Hasankeyf aims to revive its historical and cultural richness and offer visitors a unique experience.
