Gaziantep, located in the southeastern region of Turkey, is a city steeped in history. With its unique historical fabric, rich cultural heritage, and famous cuisine, Gaziantep also draws attention to the origin of its name. In this article, we will explore the origins of Gaziantep's name and shed light on the historical wealth of the city.
Gaziantep Name and Historical Background:
The name Gaziantep was given to the city during the early years of the Republic of Turkey in 1921. Throughout history, Gaziantep has been home to different civilizations, and it has been known by various names. Understanding the city's historical background is essential to comprehend the formation of its name.
Ancient Age and Roman Period Names
Gaziantep's historical roots date back to the 4th century BC. During the ancient age, the region was part of the Kingdom of Commagene, and the city was known as Antiocheia. At that time, Antiocheia was a significant Roman city, founded by Emperor Vespasian.
Middle Ages and Seljuk Period Names
In the Middle Ages, Gaziantep and its surroundings faced Arab invasions and were referred to by different names. During this period, the city was known as "Dâzıntab." In the Seljuk period, it was called "Güzelvadi" (Kale), being associated with important cities like Zeugma and Karkamış.
Ottoman Period and Present-Day Name
During the Ottoman Empire, Gaziantep was ruled as a sanjak (administrative district) under the authority of Aleppo. In 1921, during the establishment of the Republic of Turkey and the War of Independence, the city's name was changed to "Antep." The title "Gazi" was added to the name to honor the city's bravery during the Turkish War of Independence. Finally, on February 27, 1973, the name "Gaziantep" was officially adopted, and it has been the city's name ever since.
The name Gaziantep is of Hittite origin. The Hittite word "antip" means "the place where the waters meet" or "the source of the waters".
Gaziantep has been home to many different civilizations throughout history. After the Hittites, it was successively ruled by the Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Seleucids, Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs. In 1071, Gaziantep was captured by the Seljuks, in 1271 by the Mamluks, and in 1516 by the Ottomans.
In 1923, with the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, Gaziantep became a province of Turkey. Gaziantep is today one of the most important industrial and commercial centers in Turkey. Gaziantep is home to the Gaziantep Organized Industrial Zone, one of the largest industrial enterprises in Turkey. Gaziantep is also one of the most important pistachio production centers in Turkey. Pistachios produced in Gaziantep are in great demand in the domestic and foreign markets.
Gaziantep is also a city of historical and cultural wealth. Gaziantep is home to important historical and cultural monuments such as the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, the Gaziantep Castle, the Gaziantep Museum, and the Gaziantep Archaeology Museum. Gaziantep is also one of the most important gastronomy centers in Turkey. Gaziantep cuisine is rich and diverse. In Gaziantep, famous dishes such as baklava, katmer, pistachio kebab, lahmacun, and Antep pistachio are made.
Gaziantep is a city where history, culture, gastronomy, and industry meet. Gaziantep is one of the most important cities in Turkey.
Gaziantep, with its rich historical past and the profound story behind its name, stands as one of Anatolia's significant cities. This historical journey from ancient times to the present day forms the cornerstone of the city's cultural heritage. Gaziantep preserves the traces of its history even today, continuing to be one of Turkey's essential tourism and cultural centers.