West of Cappadocia, over the mountains in central Anatolia, lies Kayseri, known as Caesarea in Romantimes. The city spreads out at the foot of the extinct volcano Mt. Erciyes (3,916 meters). In the winter months the ski center has excellent runs for downhill skiers, and several pleasant hotels cater particularly to skiers.
Close to the Byzantine fortress, the 13th century Huant Hatun Mosque and Medrese, with the Mahperi Hatun Mausoleum, comprise the first SeljukAnatolia. TheMedrese is now an Ethnography Museum. South of the complex, stands the beautifully decorated Döner Kümbet of 1276, a Seljuk mausoleum of classic simplicity. A majorSeljuk city, Kayseri was an important center of learning and consequently, there are many medreses (theological schools) among the remaining historical buildings. Those interested in the Seljuk architecturalMedrese, the firstSeljukMedrese. Near the city’s bedesten (market hall) is the restored 12th century Ulu Mosque. The Haci KilicMosque north of the Çifte (twin) Medrese dates from 1249. In the Cumhuriyet (Republic) quarter, the 19th century Resit Aga Mansion houses the Atatürk Museum which displays Atatürk’s personal belongings. Across from theAtatürk Museum, the historical Gupgupoglu Mansion is now an Ethnography Museum. complex, the Huant Hatun Complex, in form should see the Çifte (Giyasiye and Sifahiye) school of anatomy, and one which today is now the Gevher Nesibe Medical History Museum. And nearby is the lovely Sahabiye
South of Kayseri, in Develi, stand three more importantSeljuk buildings: the Ulu Mosque, the Seyid-i Serif Tomb and the Develi Tomb. Nearby, the Sultan Marshes, the habitat of many bird-species, are of interest both to ornithologists and nature lovers.
North of Kayseri, Kültepe, known in ancient times as Kanesh or Karum, was one of the earliest Assyrian and Hittitecommercial cities Dating from 2000 B.C, Kültepe was also one of the world’s first cities of free trade. Today, however, only the foundations remain. Many of the findings can be examined in the Kayseri Archaeological Museum or AnkaraAnatolian Civilizations Museum.
On the same road is Sultanhan, a caravanserai built by theSeljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat in the early 13th century and a favorite stop for tourists.
Caesarea was also an important city of Christianity in the early years of Byzantine Empire. One can remember bishopBasil the Great from 4th century who traveled inCappadocia as well to organize early Christiancommunities.
Karpuzbasi Waterfall is 76 km south from Kayseri. In this beautiful natural site, seven different springs on the mountainside fall from heights ranging between 30 and 70 meters.
Kayseri is one of the most important carpet and kilimproduction centers in Anatolia. Bünyan is the most famouscarpet production center and Yahyali is the most famouskilim production center. Rugs woven in finely knotted floral patterns continue a centuries-old tradition.
