21.08.2025 22:42
Hacı Hasan Keskin from Denizli, who served his military duty in Malazgirt in 1974, continues to keep alive his love for Sultan Alparslan and the spirit of Malazgirt since that time. Wearing a specially made battle costume, Keskin came to the district, wandered the streets and avenues, and took photos with citizens. He also symbolically re-conquered the Malazgirt Castle, which Sultan Alparslan conquered in 1071.
In 1974, Hacı Hasan Keskin, who served in the military in the Malazgirt district of Muş, still embodies the spirit of Sultan Alparslan that he felt during those days. Keskin, who regularly comes to Malazgirt every year, walks around the district in a Seljuk costume specially tailored for him, resembling a character straight out of history. While wandering in his Seljuk attire, he visits the squares where the celebration events will take place and the areas where President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan will address the public, stating that he feels as if he has traveled back 944 years while sitting cross-legged in the Han Tent.
HE RECAPTURED MALAZGIRT CASTLE
The most striking moment of the program was when Keskin symbolically recaptured Malazgirt Castle, which Sultan Alparslan conquered in 1071. Climbing the ramparts and gazing at Malazgirt, Keskin said, "This view reminds me of both Sultan Alparslan and my military years. Malazgirt is the name of the greatest victory in our hearts."
HE BECAME THE CENTER OF ATTENTION
Walking through the streets of Malazgirt in his Seljuk costume, Keskin also became the center of attention for children and young people. Many people took souvenir photos with him, while some citizens expressed their satisfaction by saying, "This spirit reflects the true identity of Malazgirt."
"THE SPIRIT OF SULTAN ALPARSLAN WILL ALWAYS LIVE ON"
Keskin, who stated that the spirit of Sultan Alparslan will always live on, said, "The spirit of Sultan Alparslan was instilled in me here while I was serving in the military in 1974. I have been traveling around Turkey in this outfit for 5 years. For me, Malazgirt is much more than just a piece of land. I experience the meaning of the door that was opened in 1071 every time I come here. The spirit of Sultan Alparslan and our martyrs walks here. That’s why I wear my outfit and come here. It both keeps the past alive and passes it on to the younger generations."
HE BECAME A SYMBOL IN MALAZGIRT
Every year, Hacı Hasan Keskin, who adds color to the celebrations in his Seljuk costume, has now become a tradition for the people of Malazgirt. With each visit to the district, he not only keeps the historical spirit alive but also attracts the interest of visitors. The people of Malazgirt appreciate Hacı Hasan Keskin's love for Sultan Alparslan and his demonstrated loyalty. Keskin's deep connection continues to be preserved as an example that bridges the past and the present while illuminating the future.
HE DONATED 4 APARTMENTS TO THE MEHMETÇIK FOUNDATION
Additionally, known for his patriotism, Hacı Hasan Keskin stated that he donated a total of four apartments to the Mehmetçik Foundation, once again demonstrating his commitment to this country. Speaking three languages, Keskin not only carries the traces of the past but also presents an exemplary life to contemporary people.