Ahmet Turan Gazi Tomb is a religious monument located 17-18 km east of Sivas near Soğuk Çermik Thermal Springs on the cliffs, dating back to the epic age of Battal Gazi and known locally as a wish-making destination; admission is free.
The tomb stands on the rocky cliffs across the stream flowing through the Soğuk Çermik Thermal Springs, approximately 17-18 km from Sivas city center on the road to Erzincan. The story of Ahmet Turan Gazi, who is buried here, is mentioned in ancient epic tales such as the Battal-name and Danişmend-name. According to legend, he was originally Byzantine Greek and fought Battal Gazi one-on-one twice. Defeated in their second duel, he was spared by Battal Gazi. Touched by this noble behavior, he converted to Islam, adopted the name Ahmet Turan, and later earned the title 'Gazi' (warrior of Islam).
According to local folklore, during a major battle against the Byzantines near Soğuk Çermik, Ahmet Turan Gazi and Abdülvahabi Gazi were martyred. Heavy rainfall caused a flash flood that swept away the bodies of the martyrs. Soldiers recovered the body of Ahmet Turan Gazi and buried him at the present site of his tomb. Just below the shrine, there are two small indentations believed to be the hoofprints of his horse. Visitor reviews note that part of these prints has been damaged recently, forming a hollow about 40-50 cm in diameter. While the grave was originally a simple mound of local stones, benevolent architect Mustafa Gürlevik built the present octagonal metal-frame tomb structure in the early 1990s.
Some visitors come here seeking blessings or making wishes to have children, while others visit in search of spiritual peace. Recent feedback indicates that surrounding landscaping has improved, though some areas remain under construction. Nearby lie the shrines of Çevgan Dede (at the entrance of Kızılcaköy) and Çavuş Dede (on the hill opposite the village), both said to have fallen martyred alongside Ahmet Turan Gazi.
Related places: Places to visit in Sivas, Alacahan Caravanserai, Ahi Emir Ahmed Tomb, Abdülvahabi Gazi Tomb.
History of the Tomb
According to legend, he was originally of Byzantine Greek origin and known as Toraman or Ahmer Tarran, serving as a brave commander against Battal Gazi in the battles around Sivas. They fought one-on-one twice. The first duel ended in a draw, while in the second duel Battal Gazi prevailed but spared his life. Moved by this chivalrous act, he converted to Islam, took the name Ahmet Turan, and later fought in numerous battles, earning the title Gazi.
Local folklore states that during a major battle against Byzantine forces near modern-day Soğuk Çermik, Ahmet Turan Gazi was martyred alongside Abdülvahabi Gazi, one of the prominent military leaders of the era. A fierce flood caused by heavy rains swept away the martyrs' bodies.
Best Time to Visit
Since the tomb is situated on an open rocky site, it can be visited all year round. Spring and autumn are preferred because the walking paths are more pleasant and the greenery along the stream is vibrant. Summer visitors to the Soğuk Çermik Thermal Springs often include the tomb as a quick side trip.
How to Get There
Located about 17-18 km from Sivas city center via private car along the Erzincan road. Distances vary slightly between 17 and 18 km in local sources; simply follow the Soğuk Çermik signs along the highway. Upon reaching the thermal spring area, a short walk across the stream brings you up the cliffs to the tomb.
Photography & Travel Notes
The octagonal metal-framed tomb structure, combined with the rocky cliff landscape and stream view, offers an intriguing photo composition. Just below the tomb are two small side-by-side rock depressions believed to be the hoofprints of Ahmet Turan Gazi's horse. Visitor feedback notes that one of these impressions was recently damaged, creating a hollow 40-50 cm wide. Exercise caution when climbing up to this area.
Things to Keep in Mind
Although site landscaping has improved in recent years, some sections remain under construction, so keep this in mind during your visit. Be careful while walking on the rocky terrain, especially near the hollows believed to be horse hoofprints. You may need to inquire locally at the Soğuk Çermik facility for specific rules and admission terms regarding the baths.
Other Nearby Shrines
Two other shrines of soldiers believed to have been martyred in the same battle are located nearby: Çevgan Dede at the entrance of Kızılcaköy village and Çavuş Dede on the hill opposite the village. Additionally, the Abdülvahabi Gazi Tomb on the Yukarı Tekke Cliffs is another stop that can be added to your itinerary. Sources mention Abdülvahabi Gazi as a comrade-in-arms of both Battal Gazi and Ahmet Turan Gazi.
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