History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
Karagül (Black Rose) is an endemic miracle of nature that grows naturally only in the microclimatic Euphrates coastal lands of Halfeti in the world and turns coal black when in bud. According to local legend, when Karagül, which is the symbol of ancient loves and centuries-old sorrows hidden in the depths of the Euphrates, is plucked from Halfeti soil and planted in another region, it loses its color and turns into an ordinary dark red rose. These registered botanical greenhouses were established to protect, produce and introduce to visitors the rootstock black rose seedlings saved from being submerged in the Birecik Dam lake waters. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
It is located on the shores of Eski Halfeti, on the calm dam slopes of the Euphrates River, at an altitude of approximately 380 meters. It has a unique microclimate created by its special clayey, calcareous soil structure and the groundwater specific to the Euphrates Valley. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Visiting Karagül research and exhibition greenhouses is completely free.•Visiting Hours and Days:Open 7 days a week between 08:30 - 18:30.•Rules, Safety and Stroller/Disabled Access: Plucking roses from greenhouses is strictly prohibited and subject to penalties. Flat-footed walking platforms are available; It is disabled and stroller accessible.•Facilities and Facilities:There is a sales section for black rose delight, black rose cologne and cosmetic products, a resting pavilion, botanical guidance and a WC. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Şimaliye Mahallesi, Fırat Sahil Yolu Location, Halfeti / Şanlıurfa.•Road Condition and Vehicle Suitability: It is located at the entrance of Eski Halfeti. It can be easily reached by asphalt roads, passenger vehicles and boats.•Real Public Transportation Information: You can come to the town center with Halfeti district minibuses departing from Şanlıurfa and Gaziantep bus stations and reach it by walking along the coast.•Parking Availability:There is a free parking area for 20 vehicles around the greenhouse. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photography Spots and Frames:Macro shots of velvet black petals are unique, especially during the opening periods of spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November), when the roses turn completely black.•Light and Shooting Hours:The moments when black leaves covered with dewdrops meet the sun in the early morning hours give the most beautiful light.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:After visiting the greenhouses, you should taste the famous Shabut fish, Halfeti poppy kebab and black rose sherbet at the floating pontoon restaurants on the banks of the Euphrates.