History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
Kuşakkaya is the peak of the majestic white limestone cliffs that sit like a crown over Gümüşhane city center and surround the city. It takes its name from the sharp canyon silhouette that surrounds the city like a belt. This peak, which has been the nest of eagles since ancient times, has served as a natural castle and lighthouse tower that watches over the entrance of the Silk Road caravans to the city. There are rumors among the local people that there are hidden caves and old miners' galleries in the Kuşakkaya cliffs. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
Its exact altitude is 1,550 meters. It consists of karst limestone cliffs. When viewed from the summit, the modern Gümüşhane city along the Harşit Valley, the historical Canca Castle and the Zigana mountains in the south can be viewed from a 360-degree bird's eye view. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:The summit viewing area is completely free.•Visiting Hours and Days (Mandatory): Can be visited freely in daylight, 7 days a week; It is recommended between 08:30 - 19:30.•Rules, Safety and Baby Stroller/Disabled Access: Care should be taken on cliff edges, and sturdy trekking shoes should be worn on stony and steep paths. Due to its curved structure, it is not suitable for a stroller.•Facilities and Facilities:Natural viewing terraces and photo points are available. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Kuşakkaya Mevkii, Above Hasanbey Mahallesi, Merkez / Gümüşhane.•Road Condition and Vehicle Suitability: You can reach the foothills with a passenger vehicle via the asphalt and stabilized road leading from the city center towards Kuşakkaya.•Real Public Transportation Information (Mandatory): You can take Hasanbey District minibuses to the upper border of the district and reach the summit by walking from there.•Parking Availability:There are car parks at the starting point of the trail. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photography Points and Frames:Wide angle framing from the viewing rock at the top, covering the deep canyon crevice of the Harşit Valley and all the neighborhoods of the city.•Light and Shooting Hours:Sunset golden hour; Moments when the sun sets behind the Zigana mountains and paints the canyon rocks orange and red.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:You should try freshly baked Gumushane kete and famous roasted fruit pulp in the city center after your return from the cruise.