Tunceli is a city in Turkey. It is the capital of Tunceli Province, located in the middle of Eastern Anatolia Region.

Tunceli means the hand (el) of bronze (tunç) in Turkish, while the old name for province “Dersim” (or Dêsim) means silver (sim) door (der) in Persian. Whether the name of town is Tunceli or Dersim has been a reason for political quarrels. The local authority decided to call it Dersim in May 2019, while the Governor said it was against the law, to call it Dersim.

During the Ottoman Empire, Tunceli (then known as Kalan) was a part of the region named Dersim. In 1847 Dersim was declared a sanjak (a historical administrative unit smaller than the province). The capital of the sanjak was Hozat. During the Republican period Tunceli Province was established in 1935. In 1946 the former town of Kalan was renamed as Tunceli and it was declared as the capital city of the province.

As a result of the Turkish campaign of “Turkification” Tunceli became a main target of Turkish officials after the establishment of the Turkish Republic in 1923. Tunceli played a role in the Dersim rebellion.

Tunceli is famous for excellent rankings in National Education statistics.

Traveling Places in Tunceli, Turkey

Sivdin Bridge
It is located on the Decision Creek. Sivdin Bridge, which has a history of about 800 years, is a visitable point in Tunceli, Turkey.

Goktepe Mound

The Goktepe Mound, which is located in the Mazgirt district of Tunceli, contains many historical remains. You should definitely keep this region that has shed light on the history of Tunceli in your list of places to visit in Tunceli, Turkey.

Cemisgezek Castle

Cemisgezek Castle, which was built by using rubble and cut stone, remains a part of our day as a result of the damages it took in the previous periods. We recommend you to see this work in the history of Tunceli, Turkey.

Bagin Castle

The castle, which has a history of 2100 years, was built in ancient times by the King of Urartu, Menuas. This important historical place in the history of Tunceli is reached by stairs and is among the points of interest of Tunceli. You should place the Bağın Fortress, which has an important place among the historical places of Tunceli, in your list of places to see in Tunceli, Turkey.

Uzun Hasan Tomb

Uzun Hasan Tomb, located in Çemişgezek district, stands on a rock and stands out with its fine workmanship architecture. It is very easy to reach the region and it is a place to visit in Tunceli, Turkey.

Munzur Valley and National Park

The region, which is the living space of tens of animals, is carefully protected. Munzur Valley, which is a source of healing in its endemic plants, is a good example of the natural beauties of Tunceli, Turkey.

Mazgirt Castle

Mazgirt Castle, which is a monument belonging to Urartu civilization, is a historical place which should be added to the list of places to visit in Tunceli with its robustness that has reached to our day. Windmills from the centuries ago can be seen at the top of the castle. In addition, the city views are among the most ideal spots to watch. You should also add Mazgirt Castle to your list of places to see in Tunceli, Turkey.

Transportation to Tunceli, Turkey

It is possible to reach Tunceli by road and by air. By road, Istanbul Turkey, Ankara Turkey, Izmir Turkey, Bursa Turkey, Antalya Turkey, as well as metropolises, as well as almost all the city bus services, you can go to Tunceli. Those who prefer air transportation can use Elazig Airport, the nearest airport to Tunceli. It is about 120 km away. You can get support from our other company, Arsis Vip Transfer, for your transfer to Elazig Airport.