Ahlat is one of the most famous places with its cupolas. Perhaps the most interesting vaults in Ahlat are Hüseyin Timur and Bugatay Aka vaults, known as “Double Vaults”. These cupolas, which reflect thousands of years of Turkish tradition, were built with the very famous “Ahlat stone”. From the inscription on its door, we understand that the building belongs to Hüseyin Timur, who died in 1279, and Esen Tekin Hatun, who died a year later. There are verses in the epitaph on the south side and hadiths in the inscription on the west window.
The rest of the Double Cupolas on the east side is the Bugatay Aka Cupola. There are four inscriptions in total on the windows and above the door. According to the inscription above the entrance door, the building was built in 1251 for Bugatay Aka and Şirin Hatun. There are verses in the inscription in the east, hadiths in the inscription in the east. This cupola is quite rich in terms of both interior and exterior decorations. However, the original handmade decorations and paintings inside the cupola and on the windowsill were looted in the following years.
Where are the Double Cupolas? How to get there?
Double Cupolas is located in the historical Ahlat district. Access to Ahlat, which is right on the Ağrı-Bitlis-Van road, is quite easy. Double cupolas are located in the center of the district, in a very easy location. We recommend those who will visit this place to use the “Google location”.
While you have come to this charming and historical town, we recommend that you read our article titled “Places to Visit in Ahlat” and create your route according to this article. Thank you.
