Karaman, once a district within Konya in central Anatolia, is situated on the northern inclines of the Taurus Mountains. The city was named after a conqueror who founded the independent Islamic state known as the Karamanids, which at its height controlled much of Asia Minor. The Karamanid dynasty succeeded the Seljuk Empire but was eventually absorbed by the Ottoman Turks towards the end of the 14th century.
Karaman is notably recognized as the first Turkish settlement to officially adopt Turkish as its administrative language in 1277 AD. This historic act is celebrated annually on May 13th as Language Day in Karaman.
The impressive Karaman Castle towers over the city from its hilltop location. Below the castle, visitors can explore the remains of the Karamanid Palace complex, dating back to the Principality era. Traditional horse-drawn carriages are available for tourists as transport from the castle, with opportunities to arrange guided tours of the city’s other attractions.
Throughout the year, the Hatuniye Madrasa hosts a variety of exhibitions. Inside the Aktekke Mosque, which stands next to a charming clock tower, lies the tomb of Mumine Hatun, the mother of Mevlana. The tomb of the famous Turkish Sufi saint and folk poet Yunus Emre is located beside the Yunus Emre Mosque on Avi Emir Avenue. Other notable landmarks in Karaman include the Seyh Celebi and Akca Mescit, the Maraspoli Cave, Bicakci Bridge, and the Ala Bridge.
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