📖 About Malatya

Malatya is a major city in eastern Turkey, world-famous as the apricot capital producing over 80% of the world's dried apricots. With approximately 800,000 residents, this Anatolian city sits on a fertile plain surrounded by mountains, blessed with perfect climate for fruit cultivation. The region has been inhabited for over 7,000 years, with archaeological sites from Hittite, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic civilizations.

Modern Malatya was rebuilt after the devastating 1893 earthquake; the original old town (Battalgazi) lies nearby. The city is an important transportation hub connecting eastern and western Turkey. Universities, industry, and agriculture drive the economy. The 2023 earthquake caused significant damage to the region. Malatya's people are known for hospitality, and the city maintains conservative eastern Turkish character while modernizing.

Malatya offers visitors world-famous apricots, ancient archaeological sites, authentic Anatolian culture, and the hospitality of Turkey's heartland.

🏛️ Top Attractions

💼 Economy & Culture

Malatya's economy centers on agriculture—apricot production dominates, with processing and export employing thousands. The region produces over 80% of world dried apricots. Other fruits, vegetables, and grains are also cultivated. Industry has developed including textiles, food processing, and construction. Universities bring education and research. Government services support the provincial capital. Tourism has potential but remains underdeveloped. The 2023 earthquake damaged infrastructure and disrupted the economy; reconstruction continues.

Eastern Anatolian Turkish culture characterizes Malatya—conservative, hospitable, and rooted in tradition. Turkish is spoken with regional accent. Sunni Islam shapes social life; mosques are well-attended. Family and community bonds are strong. Local cuisine features kebabs, tarhana soup, and of course apricot dishes. Tea and coffee mark social interactions. Traditional values coexist with modern aspirations. The city has produced notable figures in Turkish politics and culture. Hospitality is paramount—guests are honored. The apricot harvest festival celebrates the city's identity and agricultural heritage.

📜 History

The Malatya region has been continuously inhabited for over 7,000 years. Arslantepe (Lion Hill) preserves layers from Chalcolithic through Hittite to Roman periods. The Hittite Empire included the area; a major palace complex existed at Arslantepe. The world's earliest known swords were found here. Roman and Byzantine periods left marks.

Islamic conquest came in the 7th century; the city flourished under Seljuk Turks who built mosques and monuments in Battalgazi. Ottoman rule from 1515 continued development. The devastating 1893 earthquake destroyed the old city; modern Malatya was rebuilt on the plain. Republican Turkey saw development as provincial center. Recent decades brought growth and modernization. The February 2023 earthquake again caused destruction; the resilient city is rebuilding while maintaining its role as world apricot capital.