Hüma Hatun Street is a historic bazaar street in the Divriği district of Sivas, run entirely by female tradeswomen. Across twelve shops, local specialties like Divriği pilaf, basil sherbet, and handcrafted goods are sold.
Hüma Hatun Street is a small lane in the traditional bazaar district of Divriği, holding a unique title in Turkey. Restored and opened in 2019, all 12 shops on the street are run exclusively by female artisans and shopkeepers. Named in memory of Hüma Hatun, who lived in Divriği in the 1800s, these foundation-restored shops feature pilaf vendors, eateries, dry food merchants, dessert shops, a bakery, and souvenir stalls.
Spearheaded by founder Meral Avcı Delipınar, the project established Turkey's first all-female Ahi guild organization. According to visitors, the tradeswomen open their shops on Mondays by reciting the traditional Ahi oath—a ritual considered one of the street's most unique aspects. A frequently praised highlight in reviews is Zeliha Hanım's signature pilaf served with fruit compote (hoşaf), which visitors find reasonably priced. The local basil sherbet (reyhan şerbeti) is also highly recommended.
The street is not very large and can be explored on foot in 20 to 30 minutes. However, travelers note that its true value lies in conversation: the women love sipping tea and sharing the story of the street's founding, turning a routine shopping stop into an authentic local encounter. A few reviews note inflated prices typical of tourist spots, so it is advisable to ask for prices before purchasing.
Best Time to Visit
The street is open year-round, but spring and autumn offer a more comfortable experience as Divriği winters can be harsh. On Mondays, the tradeswomen open their shops by reciting the traditional Ahi oath, making it a special day to visit. Arriving before noon is ideal for enjoying fresh local dishes and engaging in unhurried conversations with the shopkeepers.
How to Get There
Hüma Hatun Street is located on Ticaret Street in the Mercantepe neighborhood of central Divriği. Positioned close to the Great Mosque of Divriği (Ulu Cami), it can easily be combined with a visit to the mosque. Traveling from central Sivas to Divriği takes about 3 hours by car or regular intercity buses. Upon reaching the town center, the street is easily accessible on foot.
What to Eat & Buy
The shopkeepers sell goods harvested from their own fields and gardens. Divriği pilaf is the most famous culinary item, traditionally served alongside fruit compote (hoşaf). Purple basil sherbet (reyhan şerbeti), gözleme, meatballs, and breakfast options vary among the shops. Dry foods, mountain fig jam, handmade sweets, and handcrafted souvenirs line the shelves. One reviewer noted that the wild fig jam is a must-buy item.
Exploring Around Divriği
The street is within walking distance of the Divriği Great Mosque and Hospital. Divriği Castle, Castle Mosque, and the Sitti Melik Tomb can also be visited on the same day. Planning a visit to Hüma Hatun Street as a lunch break after touring the town's other historical landmarks allows you to rest and refuel before continuing your sightseeing.
How Much Time to Spend
The street itself is small and can be strolled through in 20 to 30 minutes. However, enjoying a meal and chatting with the shopkeepers can extend your stay to 1 to 1.5 hours. Including it as part of a half-day itinerary with Divriği's other historic landmarks is sufficient.
Things to Keep in Mind
Some visitors mention that prices along the street can occasionally reflect tourist-area rates. Asking for prices prior to ordering food or buying souvenirs helps avoid surprises. Due to the narrow cobblestone layout and traditional shop thresholds, navigating with wheelchairs or strollers may be challenging.
Photo Spots
The street's restored traditional facades, wooden-shuttered shopfronts, and narrow lane setting offer great photography opportunities. Shots of the tradeswomen working in traditional attire are frequently shared on social media.
This content originates from neresigezilir.com and may not be copied without permission.
FAQ
Updated:
