History of Erzurum: A Journey from Antiquity to the Republic
Erzurum is one of Anatolia's most historically rooted cities with a history spanning thousands of years. Due to its strategic location between East and West, it has been home to numerous civilizations throughout history.
Ancient Period
Traces of settlement in the Erzurum region date back to the Bronze Age. Coming under the influence of the Urartian Kingdom in the 9th century BC, the region subsequently fell under the control of the Persian, Roman, and Byzantine empires.
Known as "Theodosiopolis" during the Roman period, the city was one of the most important garrison towns on the eastern frontier of the Eastern Roman Empire.
Seljuk and Ilkhanid Period
Following the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, which opened Anatolia to Turkish settlement, Erzurum came under Seljuk rule. During this period, the city experienced great cultural and architectural development.
Important works from this period:
- Twin Minaret Madrasa (1271) — One of the most magnificent Seljuk structures
- Yakutiye Madrasa (1310) — An architectural masterpiece of the Ilkhanid period
- Grand Mosque (1179) — The city's oldest mosque
- Three Tombs (12th-14th c.) — Monumental mausoleums from the Seljuk and Ilkhanid periods
All these structures are open to visitors today and are within walking distance or a short drive from Divan Tower Hotel.
Ottoman Period
Incorporated into Ottoman territory in 1514 during Sultan Selim I's Chaldiran Campaign, Erzurum became the most important fortress on the eastern border. During the Ottoman period, the city maintained its strategic importance both militarily and commercially.
During the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), the city came under Russian occupation but was recovered shortly after.
Erzurum Congress and the War of Independence
One of Erzurum's most important roles in Turkish history is the Erzurum Congress. Convened between July 23 and August 7, 1919, under the chairmanship of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, fundamental decisions of the Turkish War of Independence were made during this congress.
Decisions taken at the Congress included:
- Preservation of the homeland's integrity within national borders
- Rejection of any mandate or protectorate
- Establishment of national sovereignty
The Erzurum Congress building now serves as a museum and is just a 1-minute walk from our hotel.
Modern Era
2011 Universiade
Erzurum hosted the World University Winter Games (Universiade) in 2011. This event greatly contributed to the modernization of the city's infrastructure. New sports facilities, transportation infrastructure, and accommodation options were developed during this period.
Erzurum Today
Today, Erzurum has developed a modern city identity while preserving its historical heritage. With a young and dynamic population thanks to Ataturk University, the city sees growing interest in winter tourism, cultural tourism, and culinary tourism.
Exploring the History
For those who want to discover Erzurum's rich history firsthand, Divan Tower Hotel is the ideal accommodation in the city's historic center. Located just 1 minute from the Erzurum Congress building and 4 minutes from the Twin Minaret Madrasa, our hotel is the perfect base for your historical journey.