Savaşan Village Sunken Minaret
Witness a hauntingly beautiful minaret rising from the Euphrates, a poignant reminder of a village lost to the waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Savaşan Village Sunken Minaret
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness a hauntingly beautiful minaret rising from the Euphrates, a poignant reminder of a village lost to the waters.
"This is an amazing site with so much emotion, a must-see place recommended at sunset."
Boat Tour Essential
Take a boat tour to truly appreciate the sunken minaret and village. 45-minute tours are common.
Try Local Flavors
Don't miss the black rose ice cream, a unique local treat!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sunken Minaret
Euphrates River
A hauntingly beautiful minaret peeking out from the water, a testament to a village lost to the Euphrates.
Submerged Village Views
Euphrates River
Witness the remnants of houses and mosques beneath the surface, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
Black Rose Ice Cream
Local Cafes
Savor the unique flavor of black rose ice cream, a local specialty native to the Halfeti region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Savaşan Village
Experiencing the Sunken Minaret
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Tour Essential
Take a boat tour to truly appreciate the sunken minaret and village. 45-minute tours are common.
Try Local Flavors
Don't miss the black rose ice cream, a unique local treat!
Sunset Magic
Visiting at sunset offers a breathtaking, emotional experience over the water.
Service Can Be Rough
Be prepared for potentially disorganized boat services and long waits.
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Tour Essential
Take a boat tour to truly appreciate the sunken minaret and village. 45-minute tours are common.
Try Local Flavors
Don't miss the black rose ice cream, a unique local treat!
Sunset Magic
Visiting at sunset offers a breathtaking, emotional experience over the water.
Service Can Be Rough
Be prepared for potentially disorganized boat services and long waits.
Embrace the History
Reflect on the history of the submerged village and its impact. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique sight of the sunken minaret and the submerged village, calling it a 'must-visit' and an 'amazing site.' The emotional impact of the history and the beauty of the landscape, especially at sunset, are frequently praised. However, some travelers express disappointment with the disorganized and sometimes poor service of the boat tours and the commercialization of the area, which detracts from its potential as a 'slow city.'
"Must visit site
This city was flooded with the waters from the Euphrates when the dam was built. This included the mosques. Buried under meters of water, you can imagine and view the aftermath of this region's agricultural & power decisions.
Great people with great heart
Have some tea, coffee or cold drinks in the nearby cafes or try some black rose ice cream - the rose is native to this area!
Travel time with a nice size boat is about 45 min
Hope you can find the time to travel and see this beautiful region"
Evren Eryurek
"Halfeti Batik Camii. The city under water,Welcome to Halfeti, where beneath the calm waters lies a colossal treasure. This treasure comes with an incredible tale, and it's one of the reasons why Urfa is known as the city of prophets. There's literally a submerged civilization beneath those waters—mosques, houses, and tombs still stand gracefully, submerged in the crystal-clear river."
Emre Ucar
"The site is amazing but unfortunately the service and the boat shuttles are the most horrible... It's very unfortunate to have this beautiful place served with such horrible and bad service , we waited for almost an hour till the boat is almost dripping people , there's no timing for the boats and you can till it's a gang like mafia who managing the place ... I was extremely disappointed,they behave the tourists as such distrispect and without any degnity"
Dr.Arafat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Savaşan Village, often referred to as Halfeti, is located in the Şanlıurfa Province of Turkey. The most common way to reach the sunken minaret is by taking a boat tour from the town of Halfeti. You can typically reach Halfeti by car or public transport from major cities like Şanlıurfa or Gaziantep. +1
The best way to see the sunken minaret and the submerged village is by taking a boat tour on the Euphrates River. These tours depart from the Halfeti harbor and provide excellent views of the underwater structures. +1
Yes, you can find intercity buses to Halfeti from Şanlıurfa and Gaziantep. Once in Halfeti, you can easily access the harbor for boat tours.
No, the sunken minaret is submerged in the Euphrates River. You can drive to the town of Halfeti, and from there, you will need to take a boat tour to see the minaret and the submerged village. +1
Boat tours typically last around 45 minutes, offering ample time to see the sunken minaret and other submerged remnants of the old village.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need separate tickets to see the sunken minaret itself, as it's a natural phenomenon. However, you will need to purchase tickets for a boat tour to get close and have the best viewing experience.
Boat tours generally operate throughout the day, from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check with local operators upon arrival, as schedules can vary, especially outside peak season.
The cost of boat tours can vary, but they are generally affordable. It's recommended to inquire about prices at the harbor before boarding.
Yes, the sunken minaret is visible year-round. However, weather conditions might affect boat tour availability and comfort, especially during winter months.
There are no entrance fees to enter the town of Halfeti itself. Fees are primarily associated with the boat tours to view the sunken minaret.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photography opportunities are from the boat tours, offering unique angles of the sunken minaret and submerged village. The waterfront cafes also provide scenic views. +1
Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas for safety and privacy reasons. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the beauty of the sunken minaret and the surrounding landscape.
Yes, cafes along the waterfront offer picturesque views, and you can capture the essence of Halfeti while enjoying a drink.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river views and the submerged structures. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the minaret.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You must try the black rose ice cream, a unique specialty of the region. Local cafes also offer traditional Turkish tea and coffee.
Several cafes and restaurants are located along the waterfront in Halfeti, offering views of the river and serving local dishes.
Local cafes offer more affordable options for snacks and drinks. Look for smaller establishments away from the main tourist strip for potentially better prices.
Traditional Turkish cuisine often includes vegetarian dishes like mezes, salads, and vegetable-based stews. Inquire at local restaurants for specific options.
Prices can vary, but expect to pay more at waterfront establishments. Local cafes might offer more budget-friendly choices for snacks and beverages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical context might be complex, the visual of a minaret in the water is captivating. Consider framing it as a 'lost city' adventure. The black rose ice cream is also a fun treat for kids to try.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive river views and the submerged village. A telephoto lens can be useful for detailed shots of the minaret. Be mindful of the lighting conditions, as the water can create beautiful reflections. Drone photography might be restricted, so check local regulations.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take time to absorb the atmosphere and reflect on the resilience of the community. The partially submerged mosque and minaret serve as poignant reminders of a lost era. Consider researching the history of the region before your visit to deepen your understanding.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Sunken Village
This submersion has transformed Halfeti into a place of both historical significance and natural beauty. The clear waters of the reservoir now cradle the remnants of the past, creating an ethereal landscape. The area is also known for its unique flora, including the rare black rose, which is native to this region and has become a symbol of Halfeti. The contrast between the submerged history and the vibrant present makes for a compelling visit.
Visitors often describe the experience as emotional and thought-provoking. The boat tours offer a direct connection to this history, allowing people to visualize the scale of the flooding and the resilience of the community. It's a place that sparks reflection on the impact of development on heritage and the enduring power of nature.
Navigating Boat Tours and Local Services
It's advisable to approach the boat operators with patience and clarity. While some reviews mention a 'mafia-like' management, it's more likely a reflection of a less-regulated, informal tourism sector. Confirm the duration of the tour and the price before boarding to avoid misunderstandings. Despite these potential service hiccups, the unique experience of seeing a minaret rise from the water is widely considered worth it.
Beyond the boat tours, the town of Halfeti itself offers a pleasant atmosphere with cafes and shops. Many of these establishments provide lovely views of the river and the surrounding landscape. It's a good place to relax, enjoy a local drink, and reflect on the history of the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit