09.06.2026 20:40
Ağ Nene Hill, which creates eye-catching travertines with its mineral-rich waters surfacing during spring in the Otlukbeli district of Erzincan, holds great potential for both nature and cultural tourism with its seven healing spring sources, rich endemic vegetation, and historical legend based on a heroic woman of the Battle of Otlukbeli.
Located in the Otlukbeli district of Erzincan, Ağ Nene Hill attracts visitors with its mineral-rich water that surfaces in spring and the natural travertines it forms.
RICH IN MINERALS
In the area, approximately 11 kilometers from the district center, travertine formations occur due to the whitish water containing minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. These natural structures, which become more distinct in spring, give the region a visually striking appearance.
ASSOCIATED WITH THE HEROIC WOMAN OF THE BATTLE OF OTLUKBELI
According to local lore, the hill is associated with a heroic woman known as "Ağ Nene" or "Ak Kız," who is said to have carried water to soldiers and helped care for the wounded during the Battle of Otlukbeli. The tale relates that she was martyred while giving water to an enemy soldier, and her grave is located in the area known as the "land of martyrs."
BELIEVED TO BE HEALING
İzzet Ercan, a 70-year-old local resident, stated that the water, which appears every May and flows for about a month, emerges from seven separate springs, each with a different taste. Ercan, noting that locals use the water for drinking and various purposes, expressed that the water is believed to be healing and begins to flow at the same period each year.
TOURISM POTENTIAL
Ercan also noted that plants such as St. John's wort, blue wort, and mountain thyme grow abundantly in the region, and he prepares various natural products from these plants. It is stated that Ağ Nene Hill, which draws attention with its natural beauties, historical narratives, and seasonal water source, holds significant potential for nature and cultural tourism.