Balgusan Tomb Preserving History Amidst Time
Located in the village of Balgusan, 18 km from Ermenek, the Balgusan Tomb stands as a testament to the region’s rich history. Originally constructed as part of a complex comprising a tomb, mosque, charity, and medrese, only the tomb remains today. Made of shear stones, the tomb features a domed section for graves and a barrel-vaulted area for prayer. Inside lie Karaman Bey and his relatives, offering a glimpse into the past.
Imaret Bath A Relic of the Past
Situated in the center of Karaman, in the Imaret district, the Imaret Bath is a historical site believed to have been built in the mid-14th century. Donated to the dervish lodging of Mevlana’s mother by Suleyman Pasha, the bath comprises a central domed entrance hall leading to a cooling space, warm room, and washing rooms. It serves as a reminder of traditional bathing practices in the region Ottoman Empire From Tribe to State.
Gazi Dukkan Bath Reflecting Karamanoglu Legacy
Constructed during the Karamanoglu Period, the Gazi Dukkan Bath in the city center offers insights into historical bathing customs. Accessed through a low arch, the warm room features a stone fountain and is covered with vaults. The bath includes both closed and open washing rooms, each adorned with domes and vaults, showcasing the architectural prowess of the era Customized Guided Turkey Tours.
Ottoman Period Bath A Testament to the Past
Despite its current state of disrepair, this bath from the Ottoman period stands as a reminder of historical bathing traditions. Originally divided into sections for men and women, the bath features stone walls and brick ceilings. Although the original domed roof has collapsed, the structure offers insights into Ottoman-era architecture.
Goksu Bridge Connecting History and Nature
Spanning the Goksu River on the Ermenek-Anamur-Gulnar main road, the Goksu Bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering. Constructed entirely of shear stones, the bridge features two arches—one small and one large—supported by surrounding rocks. Its construction reflects the ingenuity of ancient builders in harmonizing infrastructure with the natural landscape.
Imaret Fountain A Source of Refreshment
Crafted from shear stone, the fountains of Karaman are iconic landmarks in the cityscape. With pointed or round arches, these fountains often feature deep niches containing dates of construction and water basins. Serving as vital sources of water in the Ottoman period, these fountains are a testament to the city’s historical importance.
Traditional Houses Echoes of the Past
Reflecting the architectural heritage of Karaman, traditional houses are typically built on stone foundations with adobe walls. Most houses consist of one or two floors and are clustered in the old town, preserving the city’s historic character amidst modern development.
