Darende (District)

Malatya’s west lies a hidden city nestled among lush green gardens, brought to life by the cool waters of the Tohma Çayı.

This is Darende, a place with a fully documented 7000-year history that once served as the heart of trade between Mesopotamia and Anatolia. Have you ever wondered how many names a single town can have? Let us explore this district together!

Over the course of history, Darende has been known by many names. In ancient times it was called Timelkia, then later Tiranda, Tiryandafil, and Derindere, before finally adopting the name we know today: Darende.

For centuries, the district flourished as a center of culture and trade. It gained particular renown during the Ottoman period for producing prominent statesmen and scholars. When Evliya Çelebi visited around 400 years ago, he described it as “a charming, garden-filled town.”^【1】

Flowing through the heart of Darende, the Tohma Çayı is the town’s greatest gift. Over time, the river carved out the majestic Tohma Canyon, eroding massive rocks to form steep cliffs and pristine air that make visitors feel as though they have stepped into an adventure.

^{Tohma Canyon (Generated by artificial intelligence)}

One of the most enchanting sights here is the Günpınar Waterfall. Watching the water cascade powerfully from high cliffs brings a sense of peace. If you enjoy playing in water, the natural pool known as the Kudret Pool is the perfect spot to pause and relax.

One of the town’s most important symbols is Zengibar Castle, perched like an eagle’s nest atop a hill. The earliest settlements began within its walls, and its strategic location made it a military stronghold for protection.

If you wish to delve deeper into history, you will find the Arslantaşlar waiting for you. These colossal stone lion statues, dating back to the Hittite period, stand as silent guardians preserving the art of thousands of years ago.

^{Lion Statues (Generated by artificial intelligence)}

• 7000 years ago: The Hittites were among the first to settle these lands.
• 8th century: The region became a center of trade and culture under Arab influence.
• 1515: During the reign of Yavuz Sultan Selim, Darende was formally incorporated into Ottoman territory.
• 1934: In the Republican era, Darende became a district of Malatya.