Bingöl history

Historical Roots and First Mention

The history of the settlement, now known as Bingöl, is rooted in deep antiquity. Until the mid-20th century, the city bore the historical name Çapakçur, which etymologically traces back to the meaning "turbulent waters" or "splashing water". Archaeological findings indicate that the territory was inhabited as early as the time of the Urartu kingdom (9th–6th centuries BC).

In historical chronicles, the fortress of Çapakçur is frequently mentioned as an important fortified point. There are also legends linking local springs to tales of Alexander the Great, who, according to myths, searched for the "Water of Life" in these mountains.

Key Factors of Development

The development of the city as an administrative and residential centre was predetermined by several strategic factors:

• Geography and Water Resources: The modern Turkish name of the city itself translates as "Thousand Lakes". The abundance of glacial lakes, rivers, and springs in the mountainous terrain made this area suitable for life and agriculture even during arid periods.
• Strategic Location: Situated at the crossroads of paths in Eastern Anatolia, the region served for centuries as a buffer zone between great empires — Rome (later Byzantium) and Persia, and subsequently became an arena of interaction between the Seljuks and local dynasties.

Early Culture and Economy

In the early periods of its history, the economic structure and culture of the region were shaped by the rugged mountain landscape:

• Animal Husbandry: Thanks to rich alpine meadows, the primary occupation of local residents was historically livestock breeding. This defined the semi-nomadic lifestyle of a significant part of the population.
• Architecture: Early architecture was represented predominantly by defensive structures (fortresses), necessary for protecting trade caravans and controlling mountain passes.

Key Historical Milestones

The history of Bingöl is a journey from an ancient fortified point to a modern administrative centre. Below are the key events that shaped the city's appearance.

• 9th Century BC — The territory of the current city falls within the sphere of influence of the Urartu state, as evidenced by surviving fortress ruins in the vicinity.
• 1071 — After the Battle of Manzikert, the region opens up for settlement by Turkic tribes and comes under the administration of Seljuk dynasties.
• 1514 — The lands of Bingöl definitively become part of the Ottoman Empire, becoming part of the administrative system of Eastern Anatolia.
• 1881 — The settlement of Çapakçur (the city's historical name) receives the status of a district (kaza) within the Bitlis Vilayet.
• 1936 — Bingöl officially receives the status of a separate province (il), separating from neighbouring administrative units.
• 1945 — The administrative centre of the province, previously known as Çapakçur, is officially renamed Bingöl ("Thousand Lakes").
• 1971 — A major earthquake becomes a turning point in urban planning, leading to a complete redesign of residential quarters.
• 2003 — Another significant seismic event, after which the city underwent a large-scale programme of modernization and building reinforcement.
• 2007 — The founding of Bingöl University, which gave the city the status of an important regional educational centre.
• 2013 — The opening of the modern Bingöl Airport, significantly simplifying tourism and transport accessibility to the region.

Key Stages of Development and Transformation

The modern appearance of Bingöl has been formed under the influence of administrative reforms, natural phenomena, and major infrastructure projects. Below are the main milestones that defined the economic and cultural landscape of the city.

• Administrative Autonomy (1936). The designation of Bingöl as a separate province was the starting point for the formation of urban bureaucracy and infrastructure. From a peripheral district, the city turned into an administrative centre, which attracted state investment and created jobs in the public sector.
• Urban Reconstruction (1970s). After the devastating earthquake of 1971, the city underwent radical changes. Old chaotic development was replaced by planned quarters. This event forced an accelerated modernization of housing stock and engineering networks, defining the structure of central streets.
• Seismic-Resistant Construction Programme (2000s). The 2003 earthquake launched a new wave of urban planning under the auspices of TOKI (Housing Development Administration of Turkey). Modern micro-districts with multi-storey buildings, parks, and social facilities appeared, significantly improving the quality of life and safety of citizens.
• Educational Breakthrough (2007). The opening of Bingöl University became a powerful driver of socio-cultural development. The arrival of thousands of students revitalised the service sector economy (cafes, accommodation, transport) and transformed a conservative city into a more dynamic youth centre.
• Transport Accessibility (2013). The commissioning of Bingöl Airport solved the problem of complex mountain logistics. Direct air connections with Istanbul and Ankara opened the region to investors and facilitated the development of business ties with the western part of the country.
• Development of Winter Tourism (2010s). The construction and modernization of the Hasarek Ski Centre allowed for the diversification of the economy. The city began to position itself as a centre for winter recreation in Eastern Anatolia, attracting tourists and stimulating the hospitality business.
• Agro-industrial Integration (Modern Stage). The implementation of large investment projects in agriculture (including the Sütaş complexes) is transforming traditional cattle breeding into an industrial sector, creating new jobs and strengthening the regional economy.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning Features

The architectural appearance of Bingöl differs radically from many historical cities in Turkey. Due to the high seismic activity of the region and destructive earthquakes (especially in 1971 and 2003), practically no ancient buildings have been preserved in the city. Bingöl is an example of a Phoenix City, which has been rebuilt repeatedly, following the requirements of safety and functionality.

Main Stages of Development and Styles

The urban planning history of Bingöl is divided into distinct periods, dictated by natural events and state urbanization policy:

• Traditional Architecture (Pre-1971):

  The historical centre, known as Çapakçur, was located in the lower part of the valley. Vernacular (folk) architecture prevailed here: one- and two-storey houses made of rough stone and adobe with flat earthen roofs. This layer of development was almost completely lost, surviving only as ruins in the "Old City" area.

• Functionalism and Planned Reconstruction (1970–1990s):

  After the 1971 earthquake, the city was essentially rebuilt on flatter terrain. During this period, utilitarian modernism dominated. The main principles were simplicity of form, the use of reinforced concrete, and a wide grid of streets. Buildings from this period are typically low-rise (3–4 floors) standard residential blocks without decorative excesses.

• Modern Seismic-Resistant Construction (From 2003):

  After the 2003 earthquake, an era of large-scale modernization began under the auspices of TOKI (Housing Development Administration). The style of this period can be characterized as modern urbanism with elements of unification. High-rise residential complexes with reinforced frames, wide avenues, and landscaped park zones appeared.

Iconic Buildings and Districts

The modern landscape of the city is formed by administrative and educational landmarks rather than historical monuments:

• Bingöl University Campus: The most striking example of modern architecture in the city. The building complex combines elements of high-tech and postmodernism. The main gates of the campus are stylized to reflect the architecture of the Seljuk period, paying tribute to the historical heritage of the region.
• Central Mosque (Ulu Cami): A modern religious structure built to replace destroyed older mosques. The architecture is maintained in the classical Ottoman style but executed using modern materials and technologies.
• Government Quarter: An area where administrative buildings are concentrated. These are massive structures in an official state style, emphasizing status and reliability.
• TOKI Residential Areas: New micro-districts that have become the hallmark of the renewed Bingöl. These are orderly quarters of multi-storey buildings painted in warm tones, forming a new, safe silhouette of the city.

Distinguished Figures of Bingöl

Bingöl is the homeland of many talented individuals whose names are known far beyond the region. Among them are statesmen, keepers of folk traditions, and modern stars of sports and the arts.

• Cevdet Yılmaz
  Statesman, Vice President of Turkey
  One of the most influential politicians in modern Turkey, a native of Bingöl. He has served as Minister of Development and Deputy Prime Minister. He played a key role in the implementation of major infrastructure and economic projects in Eastern Anatolia (GAP and DAP projects), contributing to the development of his home region.
• Rençber Aziz
  Folk Poet (Ozan), Musician
  A cult figure for the local population and the culture of the Zaza people. Having lost his sight in early childhood, he dedicated his life to music and poetry. His songs, filled with philosophical meaning and love for his homeland, are considered an important part of Bingöl's intangible cultural heritage.
• Servet Kocakaya
  Musician, Composer, Songwriter
  A popular performer born in the Solhan district. Known for his unique style, combining modern musical genres with traditional Anatolian motifs. His work helped popularise the musical traditions of the region on a national level.
• Hikmet Tekin
  Political Figure, Mayor of Bingöl (1977–1979)
  A significant historical figure for the city. Serving as mayor in the late 1970s, he is remembered as a principled leader who strove for the modernization of the city during a difficult historical period. Streets and social facilities in Bingöl are named in his honour.
• Emircan Gürlük
  Professional Footballer
  A representative of the young generation of talent from Bingöl. Starting his career in Turkey, he achieved success on the international stage, playing in the Russian Premier League (for FC Orenburg). He serves as an example of sporting success for the local youth.