Muş is one of the most beautiful cities of the Eastern Anatolia Region, where you will take a nostalgic journey into the past with its historical mosques, bridges, castles and houses. You can explore both the central and surrounding districts to your heart’s content by devoting at least 2-3 days to your visit to Muş, which you can reach by air and rail as well as by road. Places to Visit in Muş If you want to start your Muş trip from the city center, we recommend that you first visit Muş Castle, Muş Grand Mosque and Yıldızlı Inn. You will often come across traditional Muş houses during your trip, which will take you on a journey back to the past with their historical texture. Many places to visit around Muş are waiting for you. After visiting Arak Monastery, Murat Bridge, Victory Monument, Manzikert Castle, you can relax in the fascinating view of Akdoğan Lake. If you are interested in history, you should not leave Muş without seeing Kayalıdere Ancient City. Information about the places mentioned in the list is available below. Muş Castle, located in the city center of Muş, is known as the oldest settlement in Muş. Although it is not clear by whom and when Muş Castle was built, the name of the castle is mentioned in the wars during the Mongol Invasion in the city. Muş Castle’s Hz. It is known that it came under Muslim rule during the reign of Omar. Muş Castle was heavily damaged as a result of many wars, especially the wars waged by the Arabs to settle in Anatolia. Next to Muş Castle, there are cemeteries belonging to many civilizations, including Arab, Seljuk and Ottoman. Muş Castle is one of the places to visit in Muş because it bears the traces of different cultures. A park was opened in the region by Muş Municipality to bring Muş Castle into tourism. Muş Ulu Mosque, located in Kale District in the center of Muş, is located to the west of Hacı Şeref and Alaeddin Bey mosques. Unfortunately, the Muş Grand Mosque, which is made of rubble stone, does not have an inscription. Although it is not known exactly by whom and when the Great Mosque was built, according to rumors, it was built in 979 by Sheikh Muhammadi Maghribi, whose tomb is in its courtyard. When the architectural features of the Grand Mosque, which has a rectangular plan, are examined, it is understood that it bears traces of the period in the second half of the 19th century. The mihrab of the mosque, which is considered one of the pioneers of religious tourism in Muş, is simple. The main space of the mosque is covered with a dome in the middle and a barrel vault on the sides. Its minaret was destroyed as a result of the great earthquake in 1966, and the current minaret of the mosque was built in 1968. Yıldızlı Han, which is among the places to visit in Muş, is located in the upper bazaar in the city center, on Demirciler Street. Yıldızlı Inn was built by Miralay Seyfi Bey in 1307. Built on two floors, the lower floor of Yıldızlı Inn was made of cut stone, while the upper floor was made of adobe. When we look at the architecture of Yıldızlı Inn, it is clearly seen that it bears the traces of the Seljuk period architecture. Yıldızlı Inn, which is on the Silk Road, had an important place in terms of trade and accommodation along the Erzurum-Muş-Bitlis route. Yıldızlı Han, one of the trade centers of the period and built on a very large area of ​​613 square meters, consists of 52 shops, including jewelers, coppersmiths and draperies on the ground floor, and a hotel on the upper floor. Restoration works are carried out from time to time by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Yıldızlı Inn, which was completely destroyed after the Russian Occupation of the region in 1916. Traditional Muş houses are undoubtedly among the most beautiful structures of Muş. The two-storey houses in the narrow streets of Muş are made of stone. Houses bearing the characteristics of typical Turkish architecture were built according to the basic needs of the people living in the region and the traditional lifestyle arising from their customs and traditions. The wall thickness of traditional Muş houses is approximately 60-70 cm. Clay soil was used for the floor coverings and wood material was used for the upper floor. Muş houses, which are very aesthetically pleasing in appearance, are decorated with helmet-like windows bearing traces of the Seljuk period. Windows are usually surrounded by railings. Almost all of the houses, which have become the symbols of Muş, have a large courtyard and food storage, and many of them also have a barn. The two-storey houses have a toilet, kitchen and bathroom on the first floor, while the upper floor has a large living room and rooms arranged around it. Although it is not known exactly by whom and when the Arak Monastery, located in the village of Kepenez, approximately 12 kilometers from the city center of Muş, was built, according to rumors, it was built by St. Grigor the Enlightener in the 4th century. When we look at its architectural structure, it can be seen that it bears traces of the Roman period. Arak Monastery, also known as the Monastery of the Holy Apostles, was established on the plateau just below the village of Kepenek. The name Arak, which means wine in Persian, indicates that there were grape warehouses in the region in the past. Arak Monastery, built on a wide plain, was used as the most important monastery in the region where Armenians worshiped until the “Armenian Deportation” in 1915. Arak Monastery, which was used for various purposes until 1960, was blown up using dynamite by the Muş Governorship in 1960. The ruins of two churches from Arak Monastery have survived to the present day. The historical Murat Bridge, located on the Murat River, is approximately 12 kilometers away from the city center of Muş. Although it is not known exactly by whom and when it was built, it is estimated that it was built in the 13th century during the Seljuk period. Although the date 1871 is written on a marble on the bridge, it has been determined that this date indicates the date when the bridge was restored during the Ottoman period. The bridge, which has a length of 143 meters from one end to the other and a width of 5 meters, has a total of 12 grooves. Murat Bridge, which is as solid as the first day it was built, is actively used by the people of Muş. The bridge has a wonderful view with its lighting during the day as well as at night. There is a recreation area right next to the Murat Bridge. You can taste the local flavors of Muş, accompanied by the Murat River and the Murat Bridge, on the shore of the bridge and have a pleasant day. Malazgirt Castle is located in the Mengüçgazi District of the Malazgirt district, approximately 137 kilometers away from the city center of Muş. It is estimated that Manzikert Castle is a castle from the Urartian period. The castle, which was once known as Berber Castle, began to be known as Manzikert Castle after the Manzikert Victory. Manzikert Castle, where Khorasan mortar and special black stones were used in its construction, was affected by the wars in the early years of Islam and the Byzantine period and was severely damaged. Manzikert Castle, which was repaired in various periods and has an important place in history, was occupied by Fatih Sultan Mehmet against the Akkoyunlular and came under Ottoman rule. Even though Manzikert Castle has experienced major earthquakes, it still has an impressive appearance today. Be sure to add Manzikert Castle, one of the most important historical buildings to see in Muş, to your list. Akdoğan Lake is located within the borders of Varto district, approximately 80 kilometers away from Muş city center. Akdoğan Lake is also known as Hamurpet Lake because of the Hamurpet mountains. Akdoğan Lake, which has an altitude of 2,173 meters, is surrounded by steep rocks. Akdoğan Lake, whose deepest point is 47 meters, appears green in color due to its low depth. The lake is fed by snow water from the Hamurpet mountains and many spring waters. The lake water level is almost the same throughout the year. Iskender Stream, flowing next to the lake, is fed by the waters flowing from Akdogan Lake. Akdoğan Lake, which has a magnificent nature, is frequently used as a recreation area by the local people. The lake and its surroundings are also home to animals such as carp, geese, ducks, cranes and beavers. The Muş Victory Monument, located in the Mengüçgazi District of the Malazgirt district, approximately 132 kilometers away from the city center of Muş, was built in memory of the Malazgirt Victory by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism between 1985 and 1989. The monument is known as the 26 August 1071 Manzikert Victory Monument. The Victory Monument consists of 2 columns facing each other, 42 meters high. While the columns with a height of 42 meters represent the gate of Anatolia, the space between the two columns symbolizes the transition of the Turks to Anatolia. Manzikert Victory Monument was restored in 1999. On August 26, the anniversary of the Manzikert Victory, victory celebrations are held at the place where the monument is located. If you are planning to come to Muş during that period, we recommend that you attend the victory celebrations. You can easily reach the Victory Monument, which you can reach by Muş-Malazgirt minibuses, in approximately 1.5-2 hours by following the Ahlat-Malazgirt road with your private vehicle. Kayalıdere Ancient City is located 40 kilometers from Muş district center and 20 kilometers from Varto district. Kayalıdere Ancient City, the settlement of the Urartians, is also known as the Urartian Rock Tomb. Although it is not known exactly when the Kayalıdere Ancient City was built, it was built between 756-730 BC. It is estimated that it was built during the Sarduri period. II. It is thought that the city was used as a military settlement during the Sarduri period. Kayalıdere Ancient City stands out as one of the most intact historical structures in Muş. Archaeological excavations continue in Kayalıdere Ancient City, which is one of the most visited places by tourists in Muş. As a result of the excavations, many historical ruins and artifacts, especially bronze lion statues, belts with lion depictions and arrowheads, were unearthed from the region. Artifacts unearthed from Kayalıdere Ancient City are exhibited in Ankara Anatolian Civilizations Museum. If you are interested in history, be sure to add Kayalıdere Ancient City to your list. Mavimore Turizm is a travel agency registered with TÜRSAB. Document number: A-8307 Muş Castle Located in the city center of Muş, Muş Castle is known as the oldest settlement in Muş. Although it is not clear by whom and when Muş Castle was built, the name of the castle is mentioned in the wars during the Mongol Invasion in the city. Muş Castle’s Hz. It is known that it came under Muslim rule during the reign of Omar. Muş Castle was heavily damaged as a result of many wars, especially the wars waged by the Arabs to settle in Anatolia. Next to Muş Castle, there are cemeteries belonging to many civilizations, including Arab, Seljuk and Ottoman. Muş Castle is one of the places to visit in Muş because it bears the traces of different cultures. A park was opened in the region by Muş Municipality to bring Muş Castle into tourism. 1 view Muş Ulu Mosque Located in the Kale District of Muş city center, Muş Ulu Mosque is located to the west of Hacı Şeref and Alaeddin Bey mosques. Unfortunately, the Muş Grand Mosque, which is made of rubble stone, does not have an inscription. Although it is not known exactly by whom and when the Great Mosque was built, according to rumors, it was built in 979 by Sheikh Muhammadi Maghribi, whose tomb is in its courtyard. When the architectural features of the Grand Mosque, which has a rectangular plan, are examined, it is understood that it bears traces of the period in the second half of the 19th century. The mihrab of the mosque, which is considered one of the pioneers of religious tourism in Muş, is simple. The main space of the mosque is covered with a dome in the middle and a barrel vault on the sides. Its minaret was destroyed as a result of the great earthquake in 1966, and the current minaret of the mosque was built in 1968. 1 view Yıldızlı Han Yıldızlı Han, one of the places to visit in Muş, is located in the upper bazaar in the city center, on Demirciler Street. Yıldızlı Inn was built by Miralay Seyfi Bey in 1307. Built on two floors, the lower floor of Yıldızlı Inn was made of cut stone, while the upper floor was made of adobe. When we look at the architecture of Yıldızlı Inn, it is clearly seen that it bears the traces of the Seljuk period architecture. Yıldızlı Inn, which is on the Silk Road, had an important place in terms of trade and accommodation along the Erzurum-Muş-Bitlis route. Yıldızlı Han, one of the trade centers of the period and built on a very large area of ​​613 square meters, consists of 52 shops, including jewelers, coppersmiths and draperies on the ground floor, and a hotel on the upper floor. Restoration works are carried out from time to time by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Yıldızlı Inn, which was completely destroyed after the Russian Occupation of the region in 1916. 1 view Traditional Muş Houses Traditional Muş houses are undoubtedly among the most beautiful structures of Muş. The two-storey houses in the narrow streets of Muş are made of stone. Houses bearing the characteristics of typical Turkish architecture were built according to the basic needs of the people living in the region and the traditional lifestyle arising from their customs and traditions. The wall thickness of traditional Muş houses is approximately 60-70 cm. Clay soil was used for the floor coverings and wood material was used for the upper floor. Muş houses, which are very aesthetically pleasing in appearance, are decorated with helmet-like windows bearing traces of the Seljuk period. Windows are usually surrounded by railings. Almost all of the houses, which have become the symbols of Muş, have a large courtyard and food storage, and many of them also have a barn. The two-storey houses have a toilet, kitchen and bathroom on the first floor, while the upper floor has a large living room and rooms arranged around it. 1 view Arak Monastery Although it is not known exactly who built the Arak Monastery, which is located in the village of Kepenez, approximately 12 kilometers from the city center of Muş, and on what date, according to rumors, it was built by St. Grigor the Enlightener in the 4th century. When we look at its architectural structure, it can be seen that it bears traces of the Roman period. Arak Monastery, also known as the Monastery of the Holy Apostles, was established on the plateau just below the village of Kepenek. The name Arak, which means wine in Persian, indicates that there were grape warehouses in the region in the past. Arak Monastery, built on a wide plain, was used as the most important monastery in the region where Armenians worshiped until the “Armenian Deportation” in 1915. Arak Monastery, which was used for various purposes until 1960, was blown up using dynamite by the Muş Governorship in 1960. The ruins of two churches from Arak Monastery have survived to the present day. 1 view Murat Bridge The historical Murat Bridge, located on the Murat River, is approximately 12 kilometers away from the city center of Muş. Although it is not known exactly by whom and when it was built, it is estimated that it was built in the 13th century during the Seljuk period. Although the date 1871 is written on a marble on the bridge, it has been determined that this date indicates the date when the bridge was restored during the Ottoman period. The bridge, which has a length of 143 meters from one end to the other and a width of 5 meters, has a total of 12 grooves. Murat Bridge, which is as solid as the first day it was built, is actively used by the people of Muş. The bridge has a wonderful view with its lighting during the day as well as at night. There is a recreation area right next to the Murat Bridge. You can taste the local flavors of Muş, accompanied by the Murat River and the Murat Bridge, on the shore of the bridge and have a pleasant day. 1 view Malazgirt Castle Malazgirt Castle is located in the Mengüçgazi District of the Malazgirt district, approximately 137 kilometers away from the city center of Muş. It is estimated that Manzikert Castle is a castle from the Urartian period. The castle, which was once known as Berber Castle, began to be known as Manzikert Castle after the Manzikert Victory. Manzikert Castle, where Khorasan mortar and special black stones were used in its construction, was affected by the wars in the early years of Islam and the Byzantine period and was severely damaged. Manzikert Castle, which was repaired in various periods and has an important place in history, was occupied by Fatih Sultan Mehmet against the Akkoyunlular and came under Ottoman rule. Even though Manzikert Castle has experienced major earthquakes, it still has an impressive appearance today. Be sure to add Manzikert Castle, one of the most important historical buildings to see in Muş, to your list. Akdoğan Lake Akdoğan Lake is located within the borders of Varto district, approximately 80 kilometers away from Muş city center. Akdoğan Lake is also known as Hamurpet Lake because of the Hamurpet mountains. Akdoğan Lake, which has an altitude of 2,173 meters, is surrounded by steep rocks. Akdoğan Lake, whose deepest point is 47 meters, appears green in color due to its low depth. The lake is fed by snow water from the Hamurpet mountains and many spring waters. The lake water level is almost the same throughout the year. Iskender Stream, flowing next to the lake, is fed by the waters flowing from Akdogan Lake. Akdoğan Lake, which has a magnificent nature, is frequently used as a recreation area by the local people. The lake and its surroundings are also home to animals such as carp, geese, ducks, cranes and beavers. 1 view Victory Monument Located in the Mengüçgazi District of the Malazgirt district, approximately 132 kilometers away from the city center of Muş, the Muş Victory Monument was built in memory of the Malazgirt Victory by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism between 1985 and 1989. The monument is known as the 26 August 1071 Manzikert Victory Monument. The Victory Monument consists of 2 columns facing each other, 42 meters high. While the columns with a height of 42 meters represent the gate of Anatolia, the space between the two columns symbolizes the transition of the Turks to Anatolia. Manzikert Victory Monument was restored in 1999. On August 26, the anniversary of the Manzikert Victory, victory celebrations are held at the place where the monument is located. If you are planning to come to Muş during that period, we recommend that you attend the victory celebrations. You can easily reach the Victory Monument, which you can reach by Muş-Malazgirt minibuses, in approximately 1.5-2 hours by following the Ahlat-Malazgirt road with your private vehicle. 1 view Kayalıdere Ancient City Kayalıdere Ancient City is located 40 kilometers from Muş district center and 20 kilometers from Varto district. Kayalıdere Ancient City, the settlement of the Urartians, is also known as the Urartian Rock Tomb. Although it is not known exactly when the Kayalıdere Ancient City was built, it was built between 756-730 BC. It is estimated that it was built during the Sarduri period. II. It is thought that the city was used as a military settlement during the Sarduri period. Kayalıdere Ancient City stands out as one of the most intact historical structures in Muş. Archaeological excavations continue in Kayalıdere Ancient City, which is one of the most visited places by tourists in Muş. As a result of the excavations, many historical ruins and artifacts, especially bronze lion statues, belts with lion depictions and arrowheads, were unearthed from the region. Artifacts unearthed from Kayalıdere Ancient City are exhibited in Ankara Anatolian Civilizations Museum. If you are interested in history, be sure to add Kayalıdere Ancient City to your list.