Zeynel Bey Kümbeti is a cylindrical monumental tomb located in Batman's Hasankeyf New Cultural Park Area, built in 1473 by Akkoyunlu ruler Uzun Hasan for his martyred son; it is known for its turquoise tiles.
Zeynel Bey Kümbeti was built by Uzun Hasan, father of Zeynel Bey, who was martyred in the Battle of Otlukbeli in 1473. Its unique position as the only architectural work remaining in Anatolia from the Akkoyunlu State sets it apart. Its architect was Pir Hasan, son of Abdurrahman; in some sources, he is also referred to as Pir Hüseyin. The cylindrical exterior and octagonal interior plan of the body bear traces of Central Asian and Iranian architectural traditions.
The turquoise-blue tiles encircling the body in three rows are the most striking feature of the structure. These tiles are inscribed with "Allah-Muhammad-Ali" and are crowned with a conical dome. Visitors spend a few minutes to see the color and texture of the structure up close. Most comments say "15 minutes is enough" because it cannot be entered, only viewed from the outside.
The Kümbet was not originally in its current location. Due to the risk of being submerged by the waters of the Ilısu Dam, it was moved approximately 2 kilometers away to the Hasankeyf New Cultural Park Area on May 12, 2017, using SPMT (Self-Propelled Modular Transporters) technology, a method applied for the first time in Turkey. It stands on the riverbank, close to the route of boat tours.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Batman, Historical Places, Historical places in Batman, Ten-Arched State Railways Bridge (Zilek Bridge).
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
The region gets quite hot in summer, so spring and autumn months offer a more comfortable visit. Since the Kümbet is viewed from the outside, there is very little shade. It can be difficult to protect yourself from the sun during midday. If you are including it in your general Hasankeyf itinerary, it makes sense to plan it for the morning hours along with other historical sites.
How to Get There
The tomb is located on the Batman-Hasankeyf road, approximately 37 km from Batman city center. If you are going by private car, road signs will direct you to the Hasankeyf New Cultural Park Area. It takes about 45 minutes from Batman Airport. If you are going by public transport, you can reach it by minibuses or buses from Batman to Hasankeyf and then a short walk to the park area.
Transportation within Hasankeyf
The Kümbet is located within the Hasankeyf New Cultural Park Area, close to the riverbank. Other historical structures within the park area, castle ruins, and other relocated artifacts can be reached on foot. Those participating in boat tours along the river can see the Kümbet from the tour route; it is also in a suitable location for those who want to stop and look closely while on the boat.
How Much Time to Allocate
The Kümbet cannot be entered; it is viewed from the outside. Therefore, 15-20 minutes is sufficient for most visitors. However, if you want to explore Hasankeyf in general, it would be more appropriate to allocate half a day, including the castle, caves, and other structures in the new cultural park area.
Suggested Itinerary
Starting your Hasankeyf trip with the castle and old settlement area, then moving to the new cultural park area to see the Kümbet and other relocated historical structures, provides a smooth sequence. A boat tour along the river can be left for the end of the day, offering the opportunity to see the Kümbet from the water as well.
Good Spots for Photos
The tiled body of the Kümbet appears more vibrant in the afternoon light. Photos taken from the riverbank, from the angle where boats pass, also capture the water in the background. In close-up shots, it is possible to see the details of the 'Allah-Muhammad-Ali' inscriptions.
Things to Pay Attention To
Some visitors state that entry is stopped before the official closing time. Especially if you are coming from a long distance and planning to visit in the late hours of the day, it is beneficial to go early. The structure cannot be entered, only viewed from the outside; going with this expectation prevents disappointment. Since shaded areas are limited, it is a good idea to bring a hat and water in summer.
Zeynel Bey Kümbeti Videos
Zeynel Bey Kümbeti videos load when you open this section to keep the page fast.
Show videos
FAQ
Updated:
