Overview
Divriği is a small iron-mining town in the mountainous northeast of Central Anatolia that draws visitors almost exclusively for its Great Mosque and adjoining medieval hospital (Darüşşifa), a UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in 1985 as one of Turkey's first. The complex, built in 1229 by architect Hürrem Şah, features magnificent portals with thousands of unique carved figures in a style dubbed "early Turkish Baroque".
Architecture · Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Museums
Before you go
Connectivity
4G signal is very patchy from Türk Telekom and Vodafone only. Turkcell has no coverage. Prepare for limited connectivity.
Culture
The local population follows Alevi tradition, a Sufi-infused variant of Islam. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Money
Turkey uses Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs available in town. Bring some cash for smaller establishments and tips.
Transport
Divriği railway station connects via daily Doğu Ekspresi trains to Sivas (west) and Kars (east). The D260 highway passes through town. Most sights are walkable from the centre.
Weather
Summers are warm; winters can be cold and snowy in this mountainous region. The red-tinted landscape from iron ore creates striking sunset views.