Halfeti

Modern Halfeti: A Town Reclaimed by Water & History

🌊 Modern Halfeti is a unique town that emerged after the construction of the Birecik Dam, which led to the partial submersion of the original settlement. As water levels rose, some buildings were relocated, while others—too large to be moved—became hauntingly beautiful submerged ruins, turning Halfeti into a one-of-a-kind tourist destination.

🚣‍♂️ Visitors can explore Halfeti by boat or on foot, witnessing mosque minarets rising from the water and sunken farmlands extending beneath the lake’s surface.

A Town with a Deep History

🏰 Early Halfeti & Rumkale Fortress

• Halfeti was originally established as a fortified settlement, closely connected to the Rumkale Fortress, a strategic stronghold on the banks of the Euphrates River.
• Over time, the town expanded, enriched by the different civilizations that left their mark on its architecture and culture.

⚔️ A Fortified Town That Took a Decade to Conquer

• The town’s strong fortifications and support from Rumkale Fortress made it difficult to conquer.
• It took 10 years for enemy forces to capture Halfeti, but even after its conquest, the town continued to flourish as a center of trade and agriculture.

Halfeti Today: A Submerged Beauty

🏞️ Minarets & Buildings Rising from the Water

• One of the most fascinating sights in Halfeti is the partially submerged mosque minarets, which stand as eerie yet beautiful reminders of the town’s past.
• Remnants of ancient homes, gardens, and village pathways now lie beneath the water, creating an almost surreal landscape.

🚤 Boat Tours & Scenic Views

• Tourists can take boat trips across the lake, gliding past half-submerged buildings and ancient ruins, making for a hauntingly beautiful and unforgettable experience.
• Walking along the modern parts of Halfeti, visitors can still explore the town’s old charm, with stone houses and peaceful waterfront areas.

Why Visit Modern Halfeti?

✨ A rare opportunity to see a partially sunken town where history and nature intertwine.
📸 Incredible photography spots, especially the famous view of mosque minarets rising from the water.
🚤 Boat rides across the flooded landscape provide a unique way to experience a lost town beneath the waves.

🚀 Whether by foot or by boat, visiting Halfeti is a chance to step into a world where past and present merge, creating a truly mesmerizing experience!