Understand

Battalgazi, formerly known as Eski Malatya or "Old Malatya," was the original location of Malatya. This settlement dates back to the 4th millennium BCE, with its roots traced to the Hittites from Central Anatolia. The Hittites named the area Malidiya, possibly derived from the Hittite word "melid" meaning "honey." Throughout history, Battalgazi has been ruled by various civilizations, including Assyrians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Armenians, Crusaders, Seljuk Turks, Mamluk Turks, and Ottoman Turks. In 1838, during a war between the Ottoman Empire and Egypt, the town was seized, leading the local population to relocate to Aspuzu. They eventually settled permanently in Aspuzu, renaming it Malatya. The abandoned old town was later repopulated and officially renamed Battalgazi in 1987, after a legendary warrior associated with the region. Today, Battalgazi is a vibrant Turkish provincial town with a population of approximately 14,000.

Get in

If you're craving a visit to the enchanting town of Battalgazi, prepare for a delightful journey. Picture this: a scenic avenue, nestled among lush apricot groves, connects Battalgazi to the vibrant city of Malatya. To reach Battalgazi, you have the option of catching a public bus or a minibus, both of which operate at frequent intervals. Pro tip: to avoid unnecessary detours, wait for these convenient modes of transport at the stop just off the roundabout where the road to Battalgazi diverges from the main highway. Simply follow the directions from the central square, and in no time, you'll arrive at your destination. For a small fare, you can enjoy a comfortable ride through the charming streets of Battalgazi. So hop aboard and be prepared to make unforgettable memories in this splendid town!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish 1: Köfte - Köfte is a traditional Turkish dish consisting of seasoned minced meat, typically beef or lamb, formed into patties or torpedo shapes and grilled or fried. It's often served with flatbread, vegetables, and a yogurt-based sauce called cacık.

Dish 2: Kebap - Kebap refers to a variety of grilled meat dishes in Turkish cuisine, typically featuring marinated cubes or thin slices of beef, lamb, or chicken, skewered and grilled over an open flame. They can be served plain or with a side of rice, bulgur, or flatbread, and often accompanied by a range of sauces and condiments.

Dish 3: Baklava - Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, chopped nuts (usually walnuts or pistachios), and butter, then cut into diamond or square-shaped portions and held together with honey or sugar syrup. This rich, crunchy dessert is a staple in Turkish cuisine and often enjoyed during special occasions or as a treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing