Aksu Parkı

Aksu Park (Aksu Parkı) is a picturesque green oasis and the cultural heart of Sivas. Located in the very center, it is more than just a place for a stroll; it is a true open-air museum that combines natural beauty with the grandeur of the ancient architecture that Turkey is famous for.

Aksu Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The park's defining feature is its unique location: it surrounds the most important monuments of the Seljuk era, such as the Şifaiye Madrasah and Gök Medrese. Following a recent renovation, the area has been transformed—dense thickets have given way to an open, modern space with a mini-amphitheater, allowing the medieval architectural masterpieces, with their famous stone carvings and turquoise glazed tiles, to be seen in all their glory.

Today, it is one of the most popular spots for both locals and tourists. Thanks to its 24-hour access and proximity to the central Konak Meydani square, the park is an ideal starting point for immersing yourself in the history of the Sultanate of Rum, offering a comfortable blend of educational leisure and peaceful observation of city life.

For your convenience, we have provided contact information to help you easily find this popular recreation spot in the city center. The park is located within walking distance of most historical monuments, so finding your way will be easy.

A walk through the park is an opportunity to touch history at every turn. You can leisurely wander the grounds, admiring the magnificent facades of ancient buildings decorated with delicate carvings and bright mosaics. Be sure to check out the souvenir shops in the Gök Medresesi, where you can buy handmade crafts and sample traditional Turkish sweets.

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, the park features cozy relaxation areas and a modern mini-amphitheater. It is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the nearby cafes while watching the city life go by. In the evenings, the park is transformed by clever lighting that emphasizes the majesty of the ancient walls and creates a romantic atmosphere.

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the panoramic views of the Tomb of Kaykaus and the famous "eight-pointed stars" made of glazed tiles. The park is also great for families: the open lawns are perfect for a small picnic or simply enjoying a book in the fresh air, surrounded by architectural masterpieces.

Getting to the park is easy, as it is located in the heart of the historic quarter near Konak Meydani square. If you arrive at the bus station (Otogar), a walk to the entrance will take about 15–20 minutes, while a taxi ride will cost approximately 20–30 lira.

From Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport (10 km away), you can reach the center by taxi in 30–40 minutes or take a shuttle bus to the center and then transfer. If you are traveling by rail, the Sivas Gar train station is only a 10-minute walk from the park area.

Use Mehmet Akif Ersoy Street or famous landmarks like the Ulu Mosque (Ulu Cami) and Çifte Minare as your main points of reference—they are literally a 5–10 minute walk from the park. Public transport (dolmuş) stops regularly at the central Meydani square, making the site highly accessible for tourists.

The history of this area is inextricably linked to the flourish of the Seljuk Empire in the 13th century. During that time, the city was a key hub on the Great Silk Road, and it was here that the most significant educational and medical institutions were built. The buildings surrounding the park, such as the Şifaiye Madrasah (1217), once served as hospitals and scientific centers where music therapy was used to treat patients and physicians were trained.

For a long time, the ancient walls were hidden behind the thick canopies of old trees, creating the atmosphere of a secluded garden. However, during a large-scale renovation of Sivas's central district, the park was redesigned. The new open space around Konak Meydani highlighted the architectural value of the Ilkhanid-era facades, turning the park into a unified open-air historical complex.

Today, Aksu Park symbolizes a careful approach to heritage. Modern restoration has returned the madrasahs to their former glory, making the park zone a link between a glorious past and a dynamic present. It is a place where every decorative element recalls the times when the city was a major trade and cultural center of Anatolia.

To simply stroll along the park paths and take a few beautiful photos against the backdrop of the ancient walls, 1–2 hours will be sufficient. This is the optimal time for a quick introductory visit.

However, if you plan to examine the facades of the surrounding madrasahs in detail, browse the souvenir shops, and enjoy traditional Turkish tea at one of the cafes, we recommend setting aside half a day. This will allow you to soak up the atmosphere of the old city without rushing.

One of the main advantages of Aksu Park is its accessibility. It is open to the public 24/7 (round the clock), seven days a week. You can visit in the early morning or late at night to enjoy the beautiful illumination of the historical buildings.

The schedule is the same every day: from Monday to Sunday, the park grounds remain fully open to all visitors.

Exploring the park's surroundings can significantly enrich your travel experience. The central part of the city is packed with unique monuments located just a few minutes' walk from each other.