Historical sites in Sivas and Kars drive regional tourism

Historical sites in Eastern Turkey are seeing renewed interest as regional authorities and cultural landmarks drive tourism. In Sivas, the Divriği Ulu Camii and Darüşşifası, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has experienced increased visitor numbers following extensive restoration work.

To further boost local economic activity, the Sivas Governor's Office is discussing a proposal to provide tourism companies with a 1,000 TL incentive for every tourist brought to the Divriği district. The goal is to encourage longer stays and increase spending on accommodation, dining, and shopping.

In Kars, the historic Kars Castle continues to serve as a major cultural hub. Dating back to the 12th-century Saltukid period, the fortress has survived various invasions, including those by Timur and during the Ottoman-Russian War. Following expert restorations, the castle remains a primary destination for travelers seeking panoramic views of the city and its unique architecture.