| The
Toros (Taurus) Mountains, which parallel Turkey's southern border and the
Black sea Mountains in the north, join together to form a might mountain
range which defines the country's eastern and southeastern lands surprises
travelers: the red ochre plateau of Erzurum; the forests, waterfalls and
gren pastures of Kars and Agri; the permanent snow-cap on biblical Mount
Agri (Ararat); and the immense Lake Van with its deep blue waters. Dwellings
and modes of life also very greatly in this large region. Small, earth-roofed
houses, built close to ground typify houses around Kars. Despite a generally
austere life, the people of the area generous and hospitable. The region's
long and turbulent history has left monuments to its various civilizations:
Byzantine monasteries and churches, Seljuk mausoleums and caravanserais,
elegant Ottoman mosques and hilltop citadels. To the inveterate traveler
and lover of advanture, this region of Turkey fascinates, astonishes and
informs. |
