Discover Horasan

Horasan lies on the road between Kars and Erzurum; a railway line runs through the town. Horasan was founded on the banks of the Aras River. Its transport links and riverside location give this destination distinct geographical reference points.

Location and landscape

Wide plains stretch along the Aras River in the district. Broad, barren ridges rise gently to the north and south. The Aras River, Zars Creek and Serküllü Creek also cross Horasan district.

History and culture

Horasan lies on the historic Silk Road, which connected east and west. Its history dates back to around 4000 BC. The Silk Road places the town within a link between east and west, while its long local history forms a distinct historical focus of its own.

Turkish communities from Khorasan in Iran settled in the place then known as Üskühat and gave it the name Horasan. The town has also long been closely associated with the culture of the Horasan Erenleri. Its history of naming and cultural ties add local dimensions to its broader historical significance.

Archaeological sites and historic structures

Nearby are the rock tombs and rock churches of Aliceyrek, in the village area of the village of the same name in Horasan district. The site is registered as a first-degree archaeological site. Hasanbey Castle in Hasanbey and Eğertaş, also in Horasan district, has the same designation. The registration decision for the castle is dated October 21, 2024.

Hasanbey Castle includes a stepped water tunnel carved into the rock. It is 2 m high and approximately 2.5 m wide inside. A total of 65 steps have been identified; the full number could not be determined because of soil deposits.

Gökçe Watchtower dates from the Middle Ages and is 19 km from the center of Horasan district. Sections of its walls, 1.5 to 2 m high, remain. In the context of Horasan’s history, which dates back to around 4000 BC, the tower represents a much later period.

A Urartian inscription is located near the village of Yazılıtaş in Horasan district. Güreşken Baba, Horasan Baba and Kubbeli are among the places of visitation and worship named in the district.

Plan your stay in Horasan

The Hızırilyas thermal springs are in the village of Hızırilyas, about 10 km from Horasan district. If the springs are important to your plans, check ahead before visiting.

When looking for a hotel in Horasan, start by considering the focus of your stay: are you mainly interested in the town’s history and its location on the Aras River, or would you also like to include archaeological and cultural sites in the district? The attractions and springs mentioned are in different locations and village areas. These geographical references can help you decide what to focus on when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Çirişli, Duatepe Köyü, Gümüşlük, Gözalan Köyü, Oltu, Erzurum.

Go to the main travel overview: Erzurum.