CILDIR

Cildir takes its name from the nearby lake which lies at an altitude of 1,965 meters. The scenic area around the lake provides a habitat for a fascinating variety of birds. In the lake, the man-made Akcakale Island was reputedly constructed with the labour of thousands; a temple with Urartian inscriptions remains. Seytan (Devil’s) Castle is near Cildir. The city of lgdir stands on a large, fertile plain where fruit and unusual for this geographical region, cotton grow. The Bible relates that when the flood waters receded, Noah and his family descended from Mount Agri (Ararat) toward the fertile Igdir plain. From here, their progeny settled to the south and west along the Firat (Euphrates) and Dicle (Tigris) rivers, establishing the second generation of mankind. From this plain, you have the best view of Mount Agri. Monuments to visit near the city include Urartian rock monuments, a 13th century Seljuk caravanserai and the Karakale (Black Castle). In Karakoyun Village, on the road between lgdir and Aralik, you should stop at the impressive 15th century cemeteries with Karakoyun (ram and ewe) monumental tombstones.