Happy TravellerWelcome to the town of Çumra, nestled in the Konya Province of Turkey. With a population of over 104,000, Çumra is a thriving district with a rich history and beautiful landscapes. Here are some of the top things to see and do during your visit to this charming Turkish town.
One of the main attractions in Çumra is its location on the Istanbul to Baghdad railway. As an important stop on this historic route, visitors can witness the comings and goings of trains from all over Turkey and beyond. In addition to the railway, Çumra is central to the 500 km²/120,000 acre Çumra irrigation zone, established in 1912 and still in use today. The irrigation zone is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Turkish people, and visitors can learn more about the local agriculture by taking a guided tour.
For history buffs, Çumra offers plenty of opportunities to explore the region’s rich cultural past. Archaeological discoveries dating back to the Neolithic period have been found at Çatalhöyük, a nearby site that is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient history. In addition, the Konya plain experienced its second great cultural period in the 12th century when it became the capital of the Seljuk Turks. Visitors can see historic Seljuk architecture throughout the town, including the Çumra Great Mosque and the Çumra Taş Medrese, a 13th century religious school.
In 2019, a farmer near the site of Türkmen-Karahöyük discovered a stone stele commissioned by Hartapu, which commemorated his victory over Phrygia in Luwian Hieroglyphics. Archaeologists from the University of Chicago joined the Konya Regional Archaeological Survey Project to excavate the stele, and the excavations of the archaeological mound at the site, which is believed to be the capital of Hartapus’ as-yet-unnamed kingdom, will continue in 2020. In February 2020, archaeologists announced the discovery of Luwian hieroglyphs on the stone stele pulled out of the irrigation ditch next to the ancient mound of Türkmen-Karahöyük, describing the military victory of Great King Hartapu over an alliance of 13 kings. The description has a reference to defeating the royal house of Phrygia, which included King Midas.
When it comes to local cuisine, Çumra is known for its delicious lamb dishes and traditional Turkish sweets. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the many local restaurants, or visit the weekly Çumra market to pick up fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local specialties.
Whether you’re a history buff, a train enthusiast, or just looking for a charming Turkish town to explore, Çumra has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and experience the beauty and culture of this hidden gem in the heart of Turkey.
