Sivas

Capital of Sivas province, central Turkey, on the Kizilirmak River, 384 km/240 mi southeast of Ankara; population (2000) 251,800. Situated on the rail and road link between Ankara and Erzurum, it is a major agricultural and commercial centre, with related food-processing industries. In 1919 the Congress of Siva confirmed Kemal Atatürk as leader of the new Turkey, and initiated the War of Independence.

Features Sivas contains an outstanding collection of Seljuk mosques and seminaries, built in the 13th century during the height of its medieval prosperity. Theological and medical schools, founded by its Seljuk and Mongol governors, include the Çifte Minare Medrese (Twin Minaret Seminary), the Gök Medrese (Blue Seminary), and the Sifahiye and Bürüciye Medreses.

History Ancient Sivas stood on the main caravan route to Persia and Baghdad, and was an important trading station for its Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Turkish overlords. The Mongols occupied the city from the late 13th century until the arrival of the Ottomans in 1396; although permanent control was not achieved by the Turks until 1408.