I started my trip to Divriği by taking the morning train from Sivas Station. During the journey, I observed farmland, valleys, flocks of sheep, and rocky hills. After passing Tecer Station, the landscape became much more mountainous, and in some areas, mining facilities and freight wagons appeared. After roughly three hours, the train arrived at Divriği Station.
As soon as I left the station, I set my route to walk to the Divriği Grand Mosque and Hospital Complex. The walk took around 20 minutes. Along the way, I passed old streets, traditional houses with wooden details, and typical stone structures of the town. As I approached the mosque area, I first saw the structure from a distance, but before heading directly up to the complex, I decided to take a short break.
I stopped in front of the Divriği Municipality building. There are small pavilions (camellias) in this area, so I sat there for a while. I bought a cold drink from a nearby shop and rested briefly. Since the weather was warm, the break was helpful before continuing the walk.
After resting, I walked up to the main square and visited the Divriği Grand Mosque and Hospital (Darüşşifa). The stone craftsmanship was much more visible up close. The western portal’s carvings, geometric patterns, and engraved details were the most striking elements. Inside, I toured the prayer hall, the stone columns, and the rooms of the hospital section. The structure’s architectural value and historical importance clearly justify its UNESCO World Heritage status.
After the mosque visit, I walked to the back area toward the castle zone. From this point, both Divriği Castle and the Kesdoğan Castle, located on the opposite side of the valley, were visible. The path behind the mosque leads to a natural viewpoint overlooking the valley. Below, the Çaltı Suyu Stream flows quietly, forming a natural corridor between the two castles. I spent some time observing the view and then returned to the town centre.
For lunch, I went to a small local restaurant and had Divriği rice pilaf, soup, and compote. After eating, I visited a nearby tea house and had a coffee, which was a relaxing break during the trip.
After the coffee break, I continued to the cultural sites. My next stop was the Nuri Demirağ Museum, located in a restored mansion. The museum provides information about Nuri Demirağ, one of the important figures from Divriği and Turkey’s early aviation history. After touring the museum, I walked to see other historic houses from the outside.
I passed by the Mühürzade Mansion, Abdullah Pasha Mansion, and the Tevrüzlü Houses. These structures preserve the traditional stone-and-wood architectural style of Divriği. Since the streets were quiet, it was easy to walk around and see all of them in a short time.
After completing the entire route, I walked back toward the station. Since the town is small, all points of interest are within walking distance. I took the return train to Sivas and finished the trip.
