Tushpa (Van Fortress) – İpekyolu, Van
Tushpa was founded in the 9th century BC as the capital of the Urartian Kingdom. Built on a steep rock mass on the shores of Lake Van, the fortress is the most magnificent example of Urartian architecture.
Inside the fortress, there are rock tombs belonging to Urartian kings, open-air temples, and inscriptions.
Highlights:
- Royal Tombs: Multi-chambered rock-cut tombs belonging to Argishti I and other kings.
- Xerxes Inscription: A cuneiform inscription of the Persian King Xerxes, written in three languages (Old Persian, Babylonian, Elamite).
- Sardur Tower (Madır Tower): Monumental structure at the western end of the fortress.
- Thousand Stairs: Steps carved into the rock.
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