Overview
Darende is a small mountain town in Eastern Anatolia, primarily a transit stop between Sivas and Malatya on Highway D300. Its appeal lies in the dramatic Shrine of Somuncu Baba perched in Tohma Canyon, Hittite-era Lion Rocks 20 km southwest, and a cluster of Ottoman-era monuments.
Architecture · Day Trips · History · Transit Hub
Before you go
Connectivity
4G available from Türk Telekom and Vodafone with many dead spots; no Turkcell signal. Internet cafe open 09:00-00:00 north of bus station.
Culture
Agriculture-based economy: barley, wheat, sugar beet, chickpeas, potatoes, orchards of mulberries, apricots, grapes. Cattle, sheep, and Angora goats are raised.
Money
Use Turkish Lira. Supermarkets and some cafes present; carry cash for smaller establishments.
Transport
Dolmuş run frequently from Malatya (80 min) and less often from Sivas. Highway D300 is the main route. The bus terminal is a dusty open square on the main highway south edge of town.
Weather
At 958 m altitude with scorching summers and bitter winters. Spring and autumn are best for sightseeing.