Ahmet Turan Gazi Tomb

Ahmet Turan Gazi's name appears in old storybooks such as Battal-name and Danişmend-name. According to legend, he was originally of Greek origin and was known by the name Toraman or Ahmer Tarran. He emerged as a brave commander against Battal Gazi in the war against the Byzantines in Sivas. They fought one-on-one twice. The first time, the outcome was inconclusive, and in the second, Battal Gazi prevailed but did not kill him. In response to this valiant act, he converted to Islam and took the name Ahmet Turan, later earning the title Gazi after participating in many battles.

According to local legend, in a great battle against the Byzantines in the current Soğuk Çermik region, Ahmet Turan Gazi was martyred along with Abdülvahabi Gazi, one of the commanders of the time. A flood caused by heavy rain carried away the bodies of the martyred soldiers. Ahmet Turan Gazi's body was rescued by soldiers just before being swept away by the flood and was buried where his current tomb stands.

Since the tomb is located in an open rocky area, it can be visited throughout the year. Spring and autumn months are preferred for easier walking paths and vibrant greenery along the stream. In summer, those visiting Soğuk Çermik Thermal Spring often add the tomb as a short stop.

It is approximately 17-18 km from Sivas city center by private car via the Erzincan road. There are small differences in this distance between sources, ranging from 17 km to 18 km; following the Soğuk Çermik signs along the road is sufficient. After reaching the thermal spring area, a short walk towards the rocks on the opposite bank of the stream that passes through it leads to the tomb.

The octagonal metal-framed tomb structure, along with the rocks and stream view, offers an interesting composition for photography. A little below the tomb, there are two small hollows side by side, believed to be the footprints of Ahmet Turan Gazi's horse. Visitor comments indicate that one of these prints has been recently damaged, forming a hollow about 40-50 cm in diameter. It is advisable to be careful when climbing here.

Although the landscaping has improved in recent years, some sections are still under construction, so keep this in mind during your visit. Be careful when walking on the rocky ground, especially when approaching the hollows believed to be horse prints. You may need to get information from the Soğuk Çermik Thermal Spring facility regarding its own rules and entry requirements.

Two other tombs believed to have been martyred in the same battle as Ahmet Turan Gazi are located in this vicinity: Çevgan Dede at the entrance of Kızılcaköy and Çavuş Dede on the hill opposite the village. Additionally, the Abdulvahabi Gazi Tomb on the Yukarı Tekke Rocks can be added to the itinerary. Sources state that Abdülvahabi Gazi was a comrade-in-arms of Battal Gazi and Ahmet Turan Gazi.