Kahramanmaras history

The city of Kahramanmaras, formerly known as Marash, boasts a rich and centuries-old history rooted in deep antiquity. Its strategic location at the crossroads of civilizations has made it an important centre throughout many eras.

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of the city begins in the era of the Hittite Empire, when it served as the capital of the Syro-Hittite kingdom of Gurgum and bore the name Markasi (or Marqas). The first mentions of it date back to approximately the 10th-8th centuries BC. Later, during the times of the Roman and Byzantine Empires, the city was known as Germanicia Caesarea. This name was likely given in honour of the Roman general Germanicus Julius Caesar.

Key Factors of Establishment

The development and significance of the city throughout the centuries were defined by several key factors:

• Strategic Location: Situated at the foot of the Taurus Mountains range, the city controlled vital trade and military routes connecting Anatolia with Syria and Mesopotamia.
• Trade Hub: The city was a crucial intersection on the routes of the Great Silk Road and the Spice Route, which contributed to its economic prosperity.
• Military Significance: Thanks to its location, the city held the status of an important military base for many empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, and the Arab Caliphates, all of which utilized it to control the region.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Since ancient times, Kahramanmaras has been a centre of cultural convergence. During the Roman period, art flourished here, as evidenced by unique mosaics discovered depicting scenes from mythology and daily life. In different eras, the city was part of numerous states — the Hittite Kingdom, Assyria, the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires, absorbing new cultural traditions each time. The city's economy was closely tied to its role as a trading centre, as well as the development of craftsmanship, which laid the foundation for its future prosperity.

The history of Kahramanmaras is a kaleidoscope of eras and civilizations that have left their mark on the culture and architecture of this ancient city in southern Turkey.

• Around 1000 BC — The city, known as Markasi, becomes the capital of the Neo-Hittite kingdom of Gurgum.
• 711 BC — The Assyrian King Sargon II captures the city, and it becomes part of the Assyrian Empire.
• 1st Century AD — During the Roman Empire, the city receives the name Germanicia Caesarea, presumably in honour of the general Germanicus.
• 645 — Arab forces conquer the city, and it becomes an important frontier post known as Marash.
• 953 — A battle takes place in the vicinity of the city between the Byzantine army commanded by Bardas Phocas and the forces of the Emir of Aleppo, Sayf al-Dawla.
• 1071–1086 — Following the Battle of Manzikert, Marash becomes the capital of the short-lived state of Philaretos Brachamios.
• 1098 — Crusaders capture the city during the First Crusade, and it becomes part of the County of Edessa.
• 1337 — Marash becomes the centre of the Turkic Beylik of Dulkadir, which ruled the region as a vassal of the Mamluk Sultanate.
• 1515 — The city and surrounding lands become part of the Ottoman Empire under Sultan Selim I.
• 1920 — The Battle of Marash takes place, resulting in Turkish national forces expelling French troops, becoming one of the key events of the Turkish War of Independence.
• 1973 — The Grand National Assembly of Turkey grants the city the honorary title "Kahraman" (Hero), and it is officially renamed Kahramanmaras in honour of the bravery of its residents.
• February 6, 2023 — Kahramanmaras becomes the epicentre of one of the most devastating earthquakes in the history of Turkey, leading to immense loss of life and large-scale destruction.

Major Milestones in the City's Development

The development of the city of Kahramanmaras proceeded through changing eras, each adding new facets to its economic and cultural appearance. From ancient caravan routes to modern industrial zones, here are the key stages that shaped the character of this region of Turkey.

• Strategic Trade Hub. Historically, the city developed thanks to its location at the intersection of trade routes linking Anatolia with the Middle East. This ensured an influx of goods and cultural exchange, laying the foundation for commercial prosperity.
• Centre of Traditional Crafts. During the Ottoman period, a powerful culture of craft guilds formed here. The skill of local artisans, especially in copper working (copperware), wood (carving), and gold, became the city's calling card and the basis of its early economy.
• Acquisition of "Hero" Status (1973). The official renaming of the city from Marash to Kahramanmaras (Hero-Marash) was a crucial cultural and ideological milestone. This event cemented a unique urban identity and a sense of pride among residents for their history of fighting for independence.
• Industrialization and Textile Boom. In the 1980s and 1990s, the city made a sharp leap from an agrarian-craft structure to large-scale industry. The construction of modern textile factories producing cotton yarn and fabrics propelled it to become a leader in the country's light industry.
• Development of Metallurgy and Cookware Production. Building on the traditional copper craft, a modern industry for producing stainless steel kitchenware has grown. Today, the city is one of the leading suppliers of these products in the region, significantly strengthening its export potential.
• Formation of a Gastronomic Brand. The popularization of the famous Marash ice cream (Maraş Dondurması) turned a local product into a recognizable international brand. This gave a powerful impulse to the development of the food industry and gastronomic tourism.
• Becoming a University Centre (1992). The opening of Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University transformed the social environment of the city. The emergence of a major educational institution attracted youth, revitalized cultural life, and stimulated the development of the service sector and residential construction.
• Regional Energy Hub. The construction of large thermal power plants in the province (Afshin and Elbistan districts) gave the region strategic importance in the country's energy system, providing jobs and an influx of investment into infrastructure.

The architecture of Kahramanmaras represents a multi-layered heritage reflecting the influences of numerous civilizations. The city's historical appearance was formed over centuries; however, it was tragically altered as a result of the devastating earthquake on February 6, 2023, which damaged or destroyed many iconic buildings. Nevertheless, surviving elements and historical descriptions allow us to trace the main stages of its urban development.

Medieval Period: The Fortress and Beylik Architecture

The core of the city's historical centre is the Kahramanmaras Castle, situated on a hill. Its origins go back to ancient times, but it acquired its medieval appearance during the Byzantine period and the era of the Turkic Beyliks, specifically the Dulkadirids. The architecture of this period is characterized by powerful defensive structures. A key monument of the Dulkadirid era is the Great Mosque (Ulu Cami). It represents an example of architecture transitioning from the Seljuk style to the early Ottoman style, featuring a characteristic multi-column prayer hall and restrained exterior decor.

Ottoman Era: Trading Rows and Traditional Houses

In the Ottoman period, the city developed as an important craft and trade centre. The architectural landscape was enriched by structures such as covered markets (bazaars), caravanserais (khans), and public baths (hammams). Many of these buildings were concentrated around the Great Mosque, forming a classic Ottoman urban structure. In residential quarters, traditional houses with inner courtyards and characteristic wooden bay windows on the upper floors were common.

Modern Development and Earthquake Consequences

In the second half of the 20th century and the early 21st century, Kahramanmaras was actively built up with modern multi-story residential and commercial concrete buildings, reflecting the general process of urbanization in Turkey. However, the 2023 earthquake revealed serious issues in the construction quality of many modern buildings, leading to their massive collapse. Historical monuments, including the castle and ancient mosques, also sustained significant damage. Today, large-scale work is underway in the city to clear debris and rebuild. The reconstruction process will define the new architectural face of Kahramanmaras in the 21st century.

Distinguished Figures Associated with Kahramanmaras

Throughout its rich history, Kahramanmaras has been the birthplace and centre of activity for many prominent figures who have left a notable mark on the culture, history, and public life of Turkey. From medieval rulers to modern artists, these personalities have shaped the unique character of the city.

• Alauddevle Bozkurt Bey (d. 1515) — One of the most famous and last rulers of the Dulkadir Beylik, of which Marash was the capital. His long reign (1479–1515) occurred during a period of complex relations with the Ottoman Empire and the Mamluk Sultanate. He left behind a significant architectural legacy in the city and the region.
• Karacaoğlan (c. 1606 – c. 1680) — One of the greatest folk poets (ashiks) of 17th-century Turkey. Although his exact birthplace is a subject of debate, many sources point to his close connection with the Marash region, where he presumably spent a significant part of his life. His poetry, dedicated to love, nature, and nomadic life, has had a tremendous influence on all Turkish folk literature.
• Sütçü İmam (1871–1922) — A national hero of Turkey and a symbol of resistance during the War of Independence. His real name was Imam Ali. On October 31, 1919, he fired the first shot at French occupational forces in Marash, sparking the heroic defence of the city. This event became pivotal in the city's modern history, in honour of which it received the title "Kahraman" (Hero).
• Necip Fazıl Kısakürek (1904–1983) — A distinguished Turkish poet, writer, playwright, and thinker of the 20th century. Although born in Istanbul, his family, the Kısaküreks, hailed from Marash, and he always emphasized his roots. Necip Fazıl is one of the most influential figures in Turkish literature and conservative thought.
• Nuri Pakdil (1934–2019) — A renowned writer, essayist, and publisher born in Kahramanmaras. He was one of the key representatives of the "Seven Beautiful Men" (Yedi Güzel Adam) literary movement that originated in this city. Pakdil, also known as the "Poet of Jerusalem," made a significant contribution to the development of modern Turkish literature and Islamic thought.
• Aşık Mahzuni Şerif (1939–2002) — A famous folk singer, composer, and poet-ashik. He was born in the village of Berçenek, in the Afşin district of Kahramanmaras province. Mahzuni Şerif was one of the most popular and influential performers in the genre of Turkish folk music; in his works, he often addressed acute social and philosophical themes.