Turkey’s Santa Harabeleri attracts tourists as summer season opens

The historic Santa Harabeleri settlement in Dumanlı village, Gümüşhane Province, has reopened for visitors after the winter closure. The site, comprising seven neighbourhoods of stone houses, churches, schools, fountains and a historic stone bridge, dates back to the 17th century or earlier. With the arrival of warmer weather and recent heavy rains, waterfalls and streams have swelled, enhancing the scenery that was initially hidden by dense fog. Visitors such as Mehmet Kaçan described the mist clearing to reveal “mountain‑side flowers, valleys, rivers and the impressive stone bridge,” while retired guide Ruhi Yıldırım praised the “magnificent valleys, ramps and abundant water.” Local authorities note that the access road is clear and the area will remain open through autumn, expecting increased footfall from nature lovers, photographers and cultural‑tourism enthusiasts. The renewed season is seen as a boost for regional tourism and the preservation of the cultural heritage site.