Suleymaniye District

About

Suleymaniye District, also known as "Old Gümüşhane," is the historical settlement area of the city. Located about 4–5 km from the modern city center on a hillside, it once served as the main residential and commercial hub. **History and Significance** Dating back to around 3000 BC, the district was an important settlement along the Silk Road. It hosted various civilizations including the Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. The area reflects a multicultural past where mosques, churches, baths, bridges, and traditional houses coexist. This diversity makes it one of the most unique historical settlements in Anatolia. As mining activities declined in the 19th century, the population gradually moved to the modern city center, leaving the area partially abandoned. **Today** Today, the district is protected as a historical site and resembles an open-air museum. Visitors can walk through stone streets, explore historical buildings, and experience its unique atmosphere. It is ideal for photography, cultural exploration, and history enthusiasts, especially during sunrise and sunset. **How to Get There?** Suleymaniye District is about a 10-minute drive from Gümüşhane city center. It can also be reached via a short hiking route.