Kings’ stairs to open to tourism at Van Castle

VAN - Anatolia News Agency

The 100-meter high staircases are known as ‘Binbir Merdiven.’ AA photo

Within the scope of the ongoing restorations at Van Castle, in the eastern province of Van, the 100-meter high staircases, known as “Binbir Merdiven,” are to be restored and open to tourism. The staircases, which were built at the time of the Seljuk Sultan Kılıçarslan, were used by kings as a shortcut to reach the back of the castle.
Restoration on the Van Castle began last year following a new initiative of the Culture and Tourism Ministry. The ministry has allocated a budget of 2.29 million Turkish Liras for the restoration. As part of the works, an Urartu Museum will be built in the northern part of the castle. All works from the Urartu period will be displayed there.

Mosque restoration
Van Governor Münir Karalğlu said that the Kayaçelebi and Hüsrevpaşa mosques, which suffered damage during earthquakes in 2011, would also regain their original structure during the restoration works that also include the old city of Van. He said that plans would also be finalized for the restoration of other mosques, Abbasağa, Ulu and Kızıl Minareli. “Works will also begin for the revival of these three mosques soon. Our goal is for the old Van city to return to its heyday.”