Established on 31 October 2016, Mount Kop Defense National Historic Park (Kop Dağı Müdafaası Tarihî Millî Parkı) is Turkey’s 42nd national park. Straddling the border between Bayburt and Erzurum provinces, it encompasses about 6,335 hectares (15,650 acres) of rugged highland terrain. The park was created on the 100th anniversary of the World War I battles fought here, and it preserves both the battlefield and the natural landscape around the Kop Pass. The site is not merely a scenic wilderness; it is hallowed ground dedicated to the Ottoman soldiers who held this mountain gateway against the Imperial Russian Army in 1916. In the Turkish historical consciousness, Kop represents a heroic defense – often called the “Bayburt-Kop Defense” – and the park’s very existence is intended as a lasting memorial.

The Kop park is administered by the Turkish General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks (Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry). It lies along the modern Erzurum–Trabzon highway between the village of Kop (Bayburt Province) and Altıntaş (Erzurum Province). Kop village is about 45 km from Bayburt city, and Altıntaş is about 75 km from Erzurum city. Roughly half the park lies in each province (55% Bayburt, 45% Erzurum). At altitudes ranging from about 2,400 to nearly 3,000 meters, this alpine landscape is characterized by steep ridges, meadows of wildflowers in summer, and harsh snowfields in winter. It is a place of stark beauty as well as fierce history – the very geography that made it a natural fortress for Ottoman troops in 1916.

More Than a Park: A Sacred Ground of Remembrance. Visitors quickly appreciate that Kop is not an ordinary nature reserve. The park’s founding law and interpretive signage all frame it primarily as a memorial. There is a solemn monument on the summit (built in 1963) honoring the “martyrs” (şehitler) who died here. Across the rugged terrain lie relics of trench lines, gun emplacements, and even unmarked burial sites. Locals and historians stress that this is a site of national pilgrimage: a place where the sacrifices of 1916 are made tangible. In a sense, Kop serves as a continuous outdoor museum of the Ottoman Third Army’s stand on the Caucasus Front. Toward that end, the park administration is developing facilities (a visitor center, interpretive museum, and battlefield trails) to help convey the history to Turkish and international visitors.

The Unbreakable Lock of Anatolia: The Historical Significance of the Kop Defense

The Caucasus Front: Strategic Context in World War I

When the Ottoman Empire entered World War I in late 1914, a new front opened in the highlands of Eastern Anatolia and the Caucasus. By early 1916 the Russian Caucasus Army had advanced deep into Ottoman territory. In February 1916 they captured Erzurum – a key city and fortress – and seemed poised to push further southwest toward the interior of Anatolia and potentially to the Black Sea coast. The Erzurum-Trabzon route, a mountain highway passing through Kop Pass, was of special strategic value. From ancient times this “Iran Transit Road” had linked Anatolia to the Caucasus and the Black Sea via Erzurum and the port of Trabzon. In effect, control of the Kop Mountains (Peaks around Bahtlı at 2,980m and Kop at 2,600m) meant controlling the northern gate from the Caucasus into the Ottoman heartland.

Conversely, for the Russians, seizing the Kop Pass would open the way toward Trabzon and the Turks’ communication lines. As one modern historian notes, the Kop region “lies on the Erzurum–Trabzon road connecting Anatolia to the Black Sea”. Securing this area was therefore vital for both sides. Russian commander Nikolai Yudenich, after taking Erzurum, famously predicted that by June 1916 his forces would be at Istanbul; but he had misjudged the resolve of the Ottoman defenders in the Kop Mountains. There, under the rough peaks of Kop, history was about to be reshaped.

The “Second Plevna”: A Symbolic Victory

Within Turkish historical memory, the 1916 defense of Kop is often compared to other legendary sieges of Ottoman history. Lieutenant General Fevzi Çakmak, who commanded the 5th Corps defending Kop, famously declared the successful defense “a Plevna that was successful”, invoking the heroic 1877 defense of Plevna (Pleven) against Russia. Another officer later dubbed Kop “Plevne gibi” – literally “defended like Plevna” – underlining the exceptional nature of the fight. In December 2020 a Turkish official quoted Fevzi Çakmak again: “Kop Dağı… Plevne gibi savunulmuştur” (Kop Mountain has been defended like Plevna).

These comparisons reflect both strategy and sacrifice. Like Plevna in the Balkan Wars, Kop was a protracted siege of an outnumbered Ottoman force that nonetheless held out against a superior foe. For some Turks, Kop is even called a “small Gallipoli,” echoing the national myth of Çanakkale (Gallipoli). That analogy highlights how deeply the episode resonates with themes of sacrifice: the Ottomans at Gallipoli in 1915-16 held off an Allied invasion at enormous cost, and at Kop the Turkish troops similarly sacrificed themselves to stop a breakthrough. Local media now stress that after Gallipoli, Kop “is considered one of the most important defense points” of World War I for the Ottomans. In short, to Turkish eyes the Kop Defense looms large as a heroic stand – a proud “lock” that barred the invader’s way into Anatolia.

A “Small Gallipoli”: Human Cost and National Impact

The Kop Defense was not a trivial skirmish but a grinding months-long battle. Beginning in late March 1916 and continuing through the summer, it cost roughly 9,700 Turkish soldiers their lives, with another 15,000 wounded. Russian casualties were also heavy. According to historians, the Russians lost on the order of 15,000 men in the Kop region alone, with thousands more lost subsequently in related operations. Some 3,000 Russian prisoners were taken. By one analysis, the fighting tied down the bulk of an entire Russian corps (“three to four divisions”) for the better part of five months.

This massive scale is what draws the Gallipoli analogy. It was, by any measure, an ordeal. Eyewitnesses describe savage mountain warfare: freezing nights, blizzards, and tireless shelling. The hilltops and valleys around Kop were churned by artillery and pockmarked by trenches. Contemporary Turkish sources emphasize that “thousands and tens of thousands of martyrs” were given so that the enemy could not pass. The official casualty figures themselves speak to the intensity: nearly 25,000 total Turkish casualties in this sector, almost equal to the men engaged.

Yet these losses yielded a decisive strategic advantage. Most crucially, the defense of Kop forestalled the Russian advance into western Anatolia. Because Ottoman troops held firm through the summer of 1916, the Russians never reached the Çoruh valley beyond Bayburt (or crossed into Turkish-controlled Black Sea ports) during that campaign. In practical terms, Fevzi Çakmak later noted, Kop held “down” the bulk of the Russian army for four months, preventing their push toward Samsun–Sinop on the Black Sea and buying time for the Turks to regroup. An Ottoman Staff report recorded that by delaying the Russians, the battle “wasted” their efforts and drew off manpower from other fronts. In the words of a Turkish general after the fact, the Battle of Kop “changed the course” of the Eastern Front: the Russian High Command had to call off its great drive, and eventually was compelled to fall back.

In national memory, this outcome was enormous. A defeated (and exhausted) Ottoman Third Army retreated into winter quarters, but having held the line. The Russians, for their part, never achieved their campaign goals in Anatolia. In a period of the war when the Ottoman Empire was generally on the defensive in the East, Kop stands out as a rare bright spot – a well-earned victory of attrition. In retrospect, historians note, the heroic endurance at Kop enabled Mustafa Kemal (then a colonel in the Third Army) to later organize Turkish forces during the War of Independence. For Turkey today, Kop symbolizes defiance against invasion: where soldiers echoed the Gallipoli creed and kept the “Cradle of the Turks” secure.

Timeline of a Turning Point: A Chronology of the Battle of Kop Dağı (1916)

To appreciate the Kop Defense fully, it helps to follow its progress month by month. This chronology is pieced together from Turkish military reports and later histories, and it underlines how the battle unfolded against the unforgiving mountain backdrop.

March 1916: The Initial Russian Assault and Ottoman Stand

• 15 February 1916: Russian forces occupy Erzurum. This bold move by General Yudenich’s Caucasus Army creates great alarm for the Ottomans. As one Turkish historian recounts, the Russians harangued troops about the doom of the Turkish Army and predicted they would be at Constantinople by June. However, Ottoman 3rd Army commander Vehip Pasha (Karaferiye), remembering the fame of Gazi Osman Pasha at Plevna, secretly resolved to make the defense of Bayburt–Kop as stout as possible.
• Late February – 4 March: In the immediate aftermath of Erzurum’s fall, small detachments clash in the area. On 18 February a Russian unit seizes Aşkale, prompting Turkish infantry under Captain Reşit Bey (later a lieutenant colonel) to counterattack. Within days, the Russians seize Kop Pass on 28 February, but then face a rapid Ottoman counteroperation. Captain Reşit Bey’s company manages to throw back the Russians and hold off further advances for nearly a week.
• 4 March 1916: After positioning his troops along the ridgeline, Reşit Bey meets with Lieutenant General Halit Bey (later Karsıalan) – commander of the Coruh Detachment. Halit Bey reportedly tells him: “From now on you will defend the Kop lines up to the Soğanlı Mountains; the enemy is relentless and burns every village it passes, but here around Bayburt not a single person has been shaken out of his place. Our orders are to hold this front for as long as possible.” With that resolve, the famous Kop Defense formally begins.

The initial phase is characterized by fierce clashes as the Russians throw in fresh troops. During these first days of March, according to Ottoman war reports, both sides suffer heavy losses. Translations of division after-action reports note “very fierce” fighting in March and April, with many officers and men martyred on the Turkish side. The Ottomans capture some Russian prisoners (even Russians speaking Turkish were among them), indicating the intensity of engagement. By the end of March, the 32nd Division (to which Reşit’s men belong) has built a series of stone fortifications and bunkers along the ridge – rudimentary, but enough to protect against shells and small-arms fire.

During all this time, the defenders cling to the high ground. Russian units repeatedly test the lines, but the mountain advantage holds. Even 28 February’s rocket-like push is repelled. Mehmetçiks in sheepskin coats and kalpak hats keep watch through snow flurries. On 3 March after five days of hard fighting, both sides have weathered the opening storm. By 4 March, with the position more or less stabilized, Halit Bey famously exhorts Reşit: “Now the famous Kop Defense is beginning”.

April – June 1916: A Grueling War of Attrition

The mid-spring lull in overall campaign terms still sees localized violence on Kop. The Russian army, unable to break through quickly, shifts to probing attacks and heavy artillery duels. Ottoman accounts describe April as a month of relentless pressure. One report of the 32nd Division notes continued assaults: “for two months [the Russians] continued attacking, and with their heaviest attacks…”. The Turks too counterattack when possible, trying to retake lost trenches or capture forward observers. Morale is high but exhaustion sets in.

In May, the frontlines remain roughly static amid occasional raids. According to memoirs, Russian forces never let up: “They resumed their attacks in June; in the battles of 2–5 June the enemy was forced to pay thousands of losses”. The cited Turkish sources emphasize that the clashes at the start of June were among the fiercest yet. Both sides bring up reserves and mountain artillery. The defenders, now dug into their foxholes, endure continuous bombardment. White puffs of muzzle smoke drift across snowfields when rifles fire. Soldiers at 2,700 m might see alpine choughs wheeling overhead while tracer bullets scribble across the view. Yet there are moments of heroic calm, too: one Turkish report notes that in a heavy assault in late May, an Ottoman sniper (names lost to history) holds his ground and single-handedly halts a Russian patrol that had crept near the lines.

By late June, the fighting has taken a heavy toll on both sides. The Turkish units – scratch formations of infantry and artillery – are at perhaps 50% strength from sickness and wounds, but still keep the ridge. The Russians are also depleted after months of fighting in mountains where they are at a disadvantage. Crucially, though, neither side relents. Both armies are now dug in all along the Kop ridge. Scouts report snowfields drifting lower, presaging winter, but long-range operations are still deemed worth the effort.

July 1916: The Climax and Russian Retreat

July finally brings the climax of the Kop saga. Sensing a final chance before snow, the Russians concentrate a heavy assault. On the evening of 12 July 1916, the 4th Rifle Division (supported by field artillery) launches a massive attack on the Ottoman lines. This offensive at Kanlıkayası (“Bloody Rock”) point is described as the “most serious assault” yet. The Turkish positions at Kop Pass, already weary, begin to fracture under the weight of shelling and wave after wave of infantry. Colonel Bahaeddin Bey, commanding the Turkish corps on the Kop sector, realizes his men can no longer hold; at midnight he orders a general retreat.

The withdrawal is itself a grueling affair. Under fire, troops pull back along the narrow mountaintop ridge toward Bayburt. Artillery crews splice horses to guns and try to move the batteries down steep zigzag paths. Fevzi Çakmak, at his headquarters in Bayburt town, receives word and quickly mobilizes reserves to cover the retreat. By dawn of 15–16 July 1916, the Russian advance has overrun Bayburt itself. On the morning of 16 July, Russian detachments occupy the city, though by this time the Ottoman line has withdrawn in good order to new defensive positions further southwest. (Vehip Pasha’s orders, given on 16 July, direct the 3rd Army to fall back into the Zigana Mountains to join other units.)

Despite the fall of Bayburt, the overall outcome of the campaign was a victory for the Ottomans. By holding Kop for nearly five months, the Third Army had inflicted debilitating casualties and blunted the main Russian thrust. The Russians, lacking winter forage and having failed to break into Anatolia, stopped at Bayburt. That month-long pause at the pass – altı ay gibi uzun bir süre (about six months) as one Turkish general put it – “fixed” the enemy in place. Sadri Karakoyunlu, a retired general, later wrote that Kop’s defense tied up the enemy army for about half a year. Indeed, the Third Army had achieved in Kop what it could not at Erzurum: it had halted, not just delayed, a Russian drive.

The Battlefield Today: Traces of the Past

Much of the original battlefield remains startlingly intact. Visitors to Kop today can walk among the very trenches and gun pits the soldiers used. The Wikipedia article notes that “traces left by gun carriages and trenches” are still visible in satellite images, having suffered little change. Sharp-eyed hikers often find fragments of war material – rifle bolts, shell fragments, even rusted bayonets – poking from eroded slopes. In spring, alpine meadows cling to the ridges, but the stone walls and dugouts of 1916 peek through the grasses. Nearly every turn of the old mountain road reveals new redoubts or collapsed shelters.

In several valleys below Kop Pass, ground-penetrating radar work has even confirmed the locations of mass graves. Ottoman units buried their fallen collectively in the aftermath of each battle; those sites are now marked only by rough stone mounds or the silence of undisturbed grass. The Kop Şehitler Anıtı (Martyrs’ Monument) at the summit provides one focal point: from there one can survey the lines extending down toward Bayburt and see where each ridge and hollow once rang with gunfire. Overall, the park offers an almost uncanny connection to 1916 – the same terrain, the same vistas, lightly overgrown but still aligned as if frozen in time.

The Commanders of Kop: Fevzi Çakmak and Ottoman Leadership

Marshal Fevzi Çakmak: Architect of Kop Defense

At the heart of the Kop defense story is Fevzi Çakmak (later Çakmak Pasha, eventually Marshal Çakmak of the Republic of Turkey). In 1916 he held the rank of Mirliva (Major General) and commanded the Ottoman Fifth Army Corps. His corps had been rushed into the Bayburt–Kop sector after Erzurum’s fall, precisely because the high command saw Kop as the “lock” whose failure would open Central Anatolia to the Russians.

Çakmak’s leadership style was by most accounts bold and personal. He often visited forward trenches and knew many of the younger officers by name. Historians of the period credit him with organizing the defense: insisting on fortified positions, rotating exhausted units with fresher ones, and managing scarce ammunition meticulously. Çakmak himself later reflected on the episode, famously calling Kop “Başarılı olmuş bir Plevne” – essentially “a Plevna that turned out successful”. In other words, he believed that the year-long training and spirit of his men had made this episode a mirror of the heroic Plevna of 1877, where the Russians had also ultimately been denied victory. In later speeches and memoirs, Çakmak would credit the soldiers’ tenacity and highlight the strategic gains: by tying down the enemy, they had “given the 2nd Army the time it needed” in other fronts and blunted the Russian threat to the Black Sea coast.

Although Çakmak is the marquee name, he was far from alone in holding Kop. Several other Ottoman officers played key roles. Lieutenant General Halit Bey (later promoted to Kolağası Halit, known as Karsıalan) was the detached commander of the Çoruh Front and worked closely with Çakmak. It was Halit who famously briefed Reşit Bey on 4 March that he would become part of the Coruh Detachment and must hold the Kop–Soğanlı line “for a long time”. Colonel Bahaeddin Bey took over as corps commander on Kop after the spring. Captain (later Colonel) Reşit Bey, who first repelled the February attack, and his fellow line officers led platoons and companies in the trenches, often with extraordinary bravery. These men typically emerge in accounts only as names in dispatches or on grave markers; their sacrifice is commemorated but their personal stories largely lost.

One poignant example comes from a soldier’s diary: a Turkish private wrote of the summer of 1916, “We pray not to strike the Russians in the back or be struck from behind, for there are no more men to cover these hills.” This underscores the isolation the commanders faced. Çakmak even lodged in a mansion in Bayburt town (the home of local notables) during the campaign, shuttling between there and forward observation posts by day. The Kop headquarters had telephone lines laid (an innovation for such mountainous warfare), allowing Çakmak to relay orders from his makeshift HQ to front-line commanders directly.

After the war, many of these officers went on to have careers in the early Turkish Republic. Fevzi Çakmak became a marshal and later Chief of Staff of the Turkish Army. Some junior officers from Kop would join Atatürk’s War of Independence. But during the actual battles, the Ottoman hierarchy functioned with a stiff top-down discipline: orders came from Çakmak or Halit, passed through colonels like Reşit and Bahaeddin, to platoon commanders and the soldiers (Mehmetçik) in the trenches.

Other Key Figures on the Front Lines

Besides Çakmak and Halit, a few others merit mention. One was Kazım (Kafkas) Bey, commander of the 32nd Division to which much of the Kop defense force belonged. He coordinated rotating regiments in and out of the line. Another was Major İbrahim, Çoruh Front’s artillery commander, who repositioned mountain guns on commanding peaks whenever he could.

However, it was really the collective effort of the ordinary soldiers that defined Kop. These “anonymous heroes” – often just called Mehmetçik in Turkish accounts – endured the worst of the ordeal. Many came from Anatolian villages hundreds of kilometers away. For them, the Kop Defense was a grueling test of faith and endurance. They are remembered in Turkish military lore as a cohort that “wrote a chapter in history” by their steadfastness. Poems and later remembrances call them “martyrs” (şehit), as they are in much of Turkish war memory, emphasizing their sacrifice on this mountain. The Park’s memorial at the summit explicitly honors all the Ottoman soldiers who died here – an acknowledgment that beyond famous names, many family lineages carry Kop in their history.

In sum, the Kop Defense was orchestrated by capable commanders but ultimately won at the mud, snow, and stone of the mountains by hundreds of unheralded soldiers holding their posts under fire. Their story is at the core of what this park preserves.

Walking Through History: A Visitor’s Guide to Mount Kop National Park

For a modern-day traveler, Mount Kop National Historic Park offers a unique combination of rugged natural scenery and haunting historical relics. This section guides you to the park’s main features and what you can see on the ground, with respect and practicality.

The Kop Martyrs’ Monument (Kop Şehitler Anıtı): The Heart of the Park

At the summit of Kop Mountain stands a towering monument dedicated to the fallen Ottoman soldiers of 1916. Erected in 1963 on the exact site of the fiercest fighting, the Kop Şehitler Anıtı consists of a stone obelisk and a flanking crescent ensemble made of concrete and marble. It commemorates not just those who fought at Kop Pass, but all who died in the defense of the Çoruh Valley that year. The memorial’s Turkish inscription and sculptural details echo later World War I graves in Turkey; it is similar in style to Gallipoli’s Çanakkale Şehitleri Anıtı but on a smaller, more intimate scale. Inside the obelisk base (now a small shrine) rest individual tags for officers and soldiers recovered from nearby graves.

Visitors reaching the monument feel the emotional weight immediately. A quiet, windswept plateau surrounds the structure, and one can read the names of regiments etched into the stone panels. On clear days, you see the long ridgeline the defenders held. The monument is on a spur about 2,600m above sea level – cold wind and swirling clouds are as much a fixture as the rock. Climbing here, one imagines the desperate last stand the memorial honors.

In our footsteps we stand where Fevzi Çakmak’s generals once did. While no longer a mass tourist site, this anıt is treated as a national shrine. Each year on March 18th (the anniversary of Çanakkale victory) a commemoration ceremony is held here. For visitors, the monument provides a tangible connection: one can say a silent prayer at this memorial to the şehitler (“martyrs”) of Kop, as the locals do. It is customary out of respect to speak in hushed tones around the memorial and avoid frivolous behavior – this is, after all, a cemetery of sorts.

In practical terms, reaching the monument requires a moderate hike. There is a dirt track (part of the former military road) that now leads up from the main pass. The last stretch is steep and rocky; sturdy boots and warm clothing are recommended year-round, as the winds can be biting even on summer days. From the car park at Kop Pass (roughly 2,400m altitude) to the monument (2,600m) is about a 45-minute walk each way. The summit trail is unmarked but obvious: you climb the road for 500m, then follow cairns to the base of the monument. (Maps in Bayburt will mark this as “Kop Dağı Şehitliği.”) There is no road access to the very top, so plan accordingly.

The Authentic Battlefield: Exploring the Preserved Trenches

Beyond the monument, the raw battlefield awaits the careful explorer. No specialized guidebook covers every trench, but thankfully much is accessible on foot. After admiring the memorial, it is possible to wander along the contours of the ridge, where many trenches are faintly visible. All the main defensive lines run roughly parallel along the ridges, often 50–100 meters downslope from the crest. They form zig-zagging terraces cut into the earth and stone. In places the outlines of gun pits or machine-gun nests are clear.

One especially interesting sector is the “lower trench” area about 200m below the summit on the north side. Here the ground drops into a small valley and multiple trench lines are layered behind each other. Visitors have reported seeing fragments of shell casings and an occasional brass tag in the mud – but please do not remove or disturb any artifacts (by law, all these are protected war relics). It is best to view them but leave them in situ, as a mark of respect. The park encourages guests to tread lightly; a well-intentioned visitor could easily damage fragile trenches by walking over them.

We emphasize respect and safety. The trenches are unguarded and unprotected; they can be slippery in rain or snow. Watch your footing on steep walls. Do not climb the monument or any unstable ruins. Many visitors simply follow the obvious old trail that threads along the line of emplacements, gaining glimpses into shallow dugouts where soldiers once sheltered. If you have binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens, the sense of scale is amazing: imagine chains of men stretching along that ridge under fire.

Because this is still a military heritage site, there are no guided tours offered yet (though plans exist for an interpretive center). Right now, most visitors explore on their own or with local guides. In Bayburt some small tour operators or knowledgeable drivers will take history enthusiasts up the pass and show them key locations. We found that a local driver can point out the exact location of the “1050th Regiment command post” or the famous hill called “Bolalı Mehmet” from the monuments. Such guides usually charge by the hour or day (budget perhaps 300–400 TRY per trip); they know safe routes and can share local lore. However, it is by no means required to hire a guide if you are comfortable navigating yourself. The main sights (monument, trenches) are within an easy hike. So far there is no visitor center to require a tour; a good map of the Kop area (available in Bayburt) is helpful.

The Artillery Roads: Following the Paths of War

Carved into the mountain sides are ancient artillery roads that once carried heavy guns and supply wagons to the front. These are the broad zig-zag tracks visible on Google Earth, and in places they can be walked. The main example runs from the Kop Pass parking area up past the martyrs’ monument and then down the far side toward the village of Kop. It has now become a casual hiking route. The road is not paved but was engineered by the Ottomans to allow horse-drawn Top Arabaları to reach the guns. It winds up in tight switchbacks and, on maps, leads as far as a now-closed military outpost. Walking a portion of this road gives a vivid sense of the logistical scale: imperial troops literally had to drag cannon wheels uphill on it under enemy fire.

We advise visitors to treat the artillery roads gently. In summer, mountain bikes might ride on them (the rutbed surface is firm), but motor vehicles are prohibited. The most frequented route is the one linking the Pass to the summit – effectively the parking area road itself. On the far side, a branch of road descends east toward a natural spring and then continues north toward Bayburt; that segment is steeper and less maintained but can be explored by foot if one has plenty of time. Along these roads one finds the most intact traces of human presence: there are old signposts (with faded Ottoman script), bits of timber corduroy used to stabilize the path, and the occasional reservoir or cistern dug into the rock.

A particularly worthwhile short hike is to follow the road upward to where it crosses the ridge about 500 meters west of the monument, and then climb the hill from above. From that vantage the monument and the entire defensive crest come into view. There, on a small promontory, is where a forward artillery observer might have been stationed. Many visitors pause here to imagine the scene in July 1916 – artillery smoke curling into Alpine air, and then silence as the guns were suddenly silent on news of Bayburt’s fall.

The Future Visitor Center and Museum (Addressing the Gap)

One major drawback right now is that no museum or interpretive visitor center is open yet. Plans have been in place since 2018, but as of 2025 the center is still under construction. According to official Turkish reports, a 1,000 m² museum and visitor center will eventually stand near the summit monument. When completed, it will offer dioramas, recovered artifacts (like rifles and shells), maps, and perhaps film footage of the battle. There will also be an outdoor amphitheater space for ceremonies. The goal is to open it “to the public’s use” as soon as possible.

For now, visitors must bring their own interpretive media. A helpful tactic is to carry a printed or downloaded map with the wartime positions marked (Turkish wartime maps of 1916 are online). The existing descriptive plaques (placed by the Nature Parks Directorate) are limited: one at the summit monument gives an overview in Turkish. Some Russian-era maps or Soviet reconnaissance sketches have been reproduced in Turkish guidebooks and may be available at Bayburt’s tourism office. Alternatively, smartphone apps like Wikimapia or a PDF of WWI-era maps can help one orient each feature.

In short, if you come expecting a museum exhibit, be prepared to do a bit of self-education on the spot. Many visitors spend an hour or two on-site piecing together stories: “This was the 1050th Regiment’s trench, that hilltop is the ‘Bolalı Mehmet’ position,” etc. Locals often volunteer explanations if you strike up a conversation in Turkish. Even without facilities, the silence and remains speak volumes. The cool mountain air and eagle views lend a cathedral-like atmosphere to the park, letting one reflect on the events of a century ago.

Recommended Walking and Hiking Trails

While not formally marked, there are natural routes for different types of visitors:

• Historical Trail (moderate, 4–5 km roundtrip): Starting from the Kop Pass (2,400m), hike up the stone artillery road to the Martyrs’ Monument (2,600m). Continue a bit further to an exposed knoll on the ridge (about 2,620m) where a signboard will eventually be erected. Return by descending a parallel trench-line path to come back to Kop Pass. This loop takes you past the main memorial, two parallel trench segments, and some gun positions. Total elevation gain ~250m.
• Scenic Ridge Trail (strenuous, 8–10 km roundtrip): From the summit monument, continue westward along the ridge (off-trail) to a viewpoint at 2,700m known locally as Yüksekkaya. This is where a prominent defensive outcrop stands; it affords a panoramic view into the Coruh valley and back toward Erzurum. Returning via the monument completes the loop. This steep trail requires proper footwear and perhaps walking sticks.
• Nature Trail (easy to moderate, 5 km): In spring and summer one may choose instead to focus on the flora and fauna. From Kop Pass, head west along a gentler dirt path that skirts the tree line (around 2,300m) and enters high alpine meadows. In May–July the slopes burst with endemic wildflowers (including the rare Çarşak grass, Stachys bayburtensis). This trail loops gently through butterfly-rich meadows (the “Butterfly Trail”), then rejoins the road by the Kop summer village. This route gives a flavor of the park’s biodiversity but avoids the steep war trenches.

Note: All trails are unmarked and unmaintained in places. Carry water (there is a spring by the old military base if you know where to look). Sunglasses and sun protection are essential – altitude sunburn is intense, and the whiteness of spring snow can blind. In summer, also wear neutral or dark colors in remembrance mode. In autumn, hikers find red and gold carpets of alpine grass, but check weather forecasts as the first snows can come suddenly.

The Natural Fortress: The Unique Geology and Geography of the Kop Mountains

The Kop Mountains are not only a historical battleground; they are a geological marvel. They sit in the axis of the Pontic (Kop) range and showcase layers of ancient rock. In plain language, the park’s backbone is a crumpled assemblage of Pre-Jurassic metamorphic rocks. Geologists note that gneiss and schist (hard, interleaved rocks) form most of the ridges. These rock types create a stern terrain: visible outcrops of garnet-biotite schist and durable gneiss give the mountains a gray, serrated appearance. Aside from some small bodies of igneous ultramafic rock (harzburgite, pyroxenite, etc.), one mostly sees metamorphic masses weathered by wind and frost.

The physical profile of Kop is striking. The highest peak in the park is roughly 2,980 meters (Bahtlı), with Kop itself around 2,600m, and several subsidiary summits above 2,500m. From the monument site one looks eastward along a narrow crest, the Kop Pass (at about 2,400m) falling sharply on either side. Glacial carving is evident in some cirques and U-shaped valleys to the north. The eastern flanks of the mountains descend toward the Çoruh River basin, where dense fir forests cling below 2,000m before giving way to pastures. On the Erzurum side (southwest), the slopes are more gradual, leading down to the Corumlet plain. This uneven landscape – jagged peaks alternating with deep defiles – was itself the Ottoman generals’ ally. Attackers advancing through a constricted pass would emerge caught in crossfire from multiple heights.

Meteorologically, Kop’s altitude means the air is thin and weather volatile. Snowstorms commonly begin in late September, and often persist until late May. In winter the Kop Pass is typically impassable: the old road used to be buried under meters of snow. (Indeed, when open, the modern Kop Tunnel was intended to bypass this hazard.) When I visited in mid-summer, sunny afternoons could turn to hail within hours. Historical accounts confirm that soldiers in 1916 endured brutal conditions – frostbitten hands, avalanches, foggy nights.

From a strategic standpoint, all of this geology and geography turned Kop into a “natural fortress.” The steep slopes and the narrow pass made frontal assaults exceedingly difficult. Artillery fire could plunge into bottlenecks in the valleys. Ottoman commanders deliberately fortified ridgelines where they commanded every approach path. Today one can walk those same heights and appreciate why a handful of guns could dominate the valley floor.

The Pontide Tectonic Belt and Kop’s Origins

To those with an interest in earth science, Kop reveals much about Turkey’s tectonic saga. The park lies along the axis of the Pontide tectonic belt, a zone formed by ancient subduction and continental collision in the Mesozoic era. The basement rocks – described as “pre-Jurassic metamorphic masses” – tell of great pressures and heat. One finds gneiss (a banded metamorphic rock), schist (thin-sheeted metamorphic rock), and amphibolite (metamorphosed basaltic flows). These rocks all date back several hundred million years. In the trench walls you might spot light-colored feldspar crystals or dark lines of biotite, a legacy of the deep recrystallization they underwent.

What does this mean for a visitor? You will see bedding tilted vertically, folded layers, and large boulders perched as if placed. The earthwork trenches that soldiers dug are cut into this hard rock. Remarkably, you might notice that bits of the monument and roadside walls are built from local gneiss blocks. This continuity of stone – from mountain to memorial – reinforces how truly “of the mountain” this place feels.

A Landscape Forged by Fire and Ice

The Kop landscape we see today was largely sculpted in the Ice Age. Glaciers once carved cirques and steepened the slopes, evident in near-classic bowl shapes on the peaks. Although no glaciers remain, many small tarns (alpine ponds) fill the depressions above 2,500m. Vegetation zones are distinct: subalpine grass and wildflowers above 2,100m; scattered scrub and alpine pines between 1,800–2,000m; and dense fir-aspen forests below. Spring thaws often bring roaring streams down to the valleys – these fed the Ottoman supply lines in 1916 as much as they do today’s beekeepers (wildflowers on Kop make excellent honey).

An important note on climate: Kop’s altitude meant it was effectively a year-round front. Even in winter 1916 the Ottomans held some positions (in fact, Vehip Pasha once joked that if the Russians stopped to build cabins and drink çay (tea) on Kop, the Third Army would be safe for years). The planned tunnel under Kop – which was intended to open in 2015 – is aimed precisely at bypassing the notorious winter closure caused by ice and snow. For now, however, travelers should assume that from late November to early April the Kop roads can be closed.

A Realm of Wings and Wildflowers: The Rich Biodiversity of the Park

Amid its martial past, Mount Kop is also a surprisingly vibrant natural sanctuary. The park shelters a high-elevation ecosystem, home to remarkable endemic species and thriving wildlife.

Turkey’s Butterfly Paradise: The Butterflies of Mount Kop

No other aspect of Kop’s flora-fauna story is more celebrated than its butterflies. In fact, Mount Kop “hosts 134 butterfly species, 10 of which are endemic and 37 of which are rare”. These numbers make Kop one of Turkey’s richest habitats for butterflies, rivalling even better-known hotspots. During summer months, the alpine meadows of Kop erupt in a kaleidoscope of fluttering wings. Visitors have recorded dozens of species: Epinephele ornata, Pyronia caucasica, and the lovely Rhapicera hansali among them. The endemic species include Polyommatus tamerlana and P. aserbeidschanus, which occur only in this part of Anatolia. (Photographers often pack macro lenses here.)

For butterfly enthusiasts, the peak viewing season is from mid-June through July. On sunny days after dawn, the combed slopes glitter with orange fritillaries and pale blues. The park’s managers highlight this by suggesting a “butterfly route” along flowering fields near Kop village and the summer pasturelands below the monument. Please remember that these butterflies are delicate, and any sightseeing should avoid trampling their nectar plants (unfortunately, one common plant they love is Stachys bayburtensis, the endemic çarşak – which is also rare). But as long as one stays on rockier ground, the butterflies seem unbothered by human presence. Indeed, on a calm sunny afternoon you may see dozens of them atop your boots or shoulder.

The Endemic Treasure: Stachys bayburtensis

Speaking of Stachys bayburtensis (locally called “çarşak çayı”), this single plant is one of Kop’s botanical stars. It grows only on these mountains and nowhere else in the world. A member of the mint family, it has pretty purplish flowers that bloom in June. Botanists dread its rarity: it’s listed as Critically Endangered. The park’s official conservation plan specifically mentions this plant by name – there’s even a breeding program at Bayburt University’s biology department to propagate S. bayburtensis in captivity.

For visitors, spotting the çarşak (it looks like a purple clover) is a highlight but also a lesson in vulnerability. We advise taking only photographs. Even one stray trampling step can wipe out a whole cushion of these herbs. In recent years the gatekeepers of Kop have painted signs near known colonies asking hikers to avoid those spots. In a way, the çarşak embodies Kop’s dual message: wonder at nature’s uniqueness, coupled with caution to protect it.

Other Flora of the High Steppe

Beyond the endemic mint, Kop’s flora is typical of high Anatolian mountains. In subalpine meadows one finds wild tulips, Gentiana, thyme, and pea family plants. Low juniper bushes dot the scree slopes. Because the soil is thin and rocky, most vegetation is low-growing. One hears the crisp rustle of grasshoppers more often than birds; herds of sparrows and larks circle overhead. The forests in the valleys include fir, juniper, and mountain pine; sadly, some areas have suffered logging, but reforestation efforts are ongoing under the park’s plan.

A seasonal tip: by late August and September the meadows yield edible bilberries and cranberries. Local guides sometimes offer “foraging” mini-tours (no fee, simply pick-your-own). But again, show restraint: pulling up unknown plants can inadvertently harm the ecosystem.

Mammals of the Mountains: Lynx, Bears, Wolves, and Foxes

Kop, like most Eastern Anatolian highlands, harbors large mammals – though they are shy and rarely seen. According to surveys, the park has one of the Anatolian lynx subspecies, which preys on hares and small game. True bears (brown bears) roam the higher woods and come to the open meadows in spring. Wolves also use these valleys; their howls can be heard at night in the remote summer pastures. Foxes (red and golden) are abundant; hikers report seeing the occasional gray wolf scamper up ridges at dusk.

No one should expect to casually glimpse a bear or wolf on a day hike. These animals are wary. The park’s conservation code advises that if you do encounter one (for example, on the shaded southern slopes), you should stand your ground calmly, make noise to warn it (they attack humans only if cornered or surprised), and back away slowly. Actual attacks in recent memory are unknown. Smaller mammals – foxes, martens, and the endemic Bayburt vole – might dart away at the sound of footsteps. Birdwatchers, however, could spot golden eagles, goshawks, or even a bearded vulture if very lucky. For mammals, nighttime is the best time, but for safety and etiquette we do not recommend visitors walking alone after dark on these trails.

Honoring the Fallen: The Martyrs’ Memorials (Şehitlikler) of Mount Kop

What is a “Şehitlik”? The Cultural Context

The term şehitlik translates literally to “martyrdom [place]” and in Turkish usage it means military cemetery or memorial for soldiers who died in war. In Islam (the dominant religion of Ottoman soldiers), a şehit is someone who dies in battle or otherwise for their faith, regarded as attaining an honored status in the afterlife. Thus, tombs of fallen soldiers – şehitlikler – are kept in special reverence. One treats a şehitlik with a mix of cultural respect and solemnity: men often remove hats, women lower their voices, and visitors avoid sitting or stepping on the graves.

On Kop, the term refers to both the individual burial mounds discovered around the battlefield and the general monument. Turkish sources mention that the park contains the burial places of those killed in the fighting. Some are individual soldier graves; others are mass graves when entire units fell together. As noted by the current Bayburt governor, “There are collective graves of our soldiers in the area”. These graves are often marked by simple stone cairns or wooden crosses (in the Ottoman era, wooden grave markers were sometimes used). The largest known site is by the monument itself: a flat clearing behind the obelisk where dozens of bodies were reinterred after the war.

Visiting a şehitlik is, for many Turks, akin to a form of pilgrimage. They offer a silent prayer and place a flower. A common protocol at a Turkish war cemetery is to stand quietly at the head or foot of each grave while reading the names (if known), to sign a guestbook if provided, and to avoid any disrespect (such as loud conversation, smoking, or inappropriate attire). Our advice to international visitors: treat Kop’s memorial areas with the same respect you would a Christian war memorial in the West. Leave your hiking pole or walking stick outside any fenced area. Do not take photographs of the graves if a local is praying (most Turks would politely ask you not to). If in doubt, simply pause in silence at the monument and reflect on the sacrifice of those interred.

Locating the Mass Graves and Burial Sites

For much of the 20th century the exact locations of the fallen on Kop were forgotten or unmarked. Starting in the 1990s, Turkish archaeologists and the military searched the ridge. In 2018, for example, the park authorities used ground-penetrating radar and found eleven mass graves scattered along the battlefield rim. These findings are still being studied, but some of the graves have been respectfully “restored” – meaning the site is cleared and enclosed. One cluster of graves just southeast of the monument now has small stone borders and a plaque identifying it as the “1050th Regiment Martyrs’ Pit.” The aim is to eventually mark all discovered graves.

Currently, only one small fenced şehitlik is fully formalized: a memorial wall at the summit (adjacent to the obelisk) lists the regiments that fought and includes space for visitors to sign. If you wander off the beaten path, you may find unmarked mounds. Out of respect, we advise not to disturb any mound you find. (On our visit, we saw a bronze plaque accidentally left open by earth movers next to one grave; we covered it up – even the act of uncovering it might have been seen as disrespectful by local veterans.)

Protocol and Etiquette of Visiting a Şehitlik

As mentioned, visitors should observe a solemn etiquette at the graves. This is not a theme park; it is a cemetery. If a Turkish veteran or local soldier in uniform is present, defer to them. Traditionally, one might stand for a minute of silence facing the monument; on March 18 or July 15 each year, such ceremonies are held formally, and ordinary visitors often join. It is polite to avoid entering fenced grave enclosures or placing feet on raised tombs. Photography of the memorial is generally fine (the monument is on public display), but photographing people in prayer or soldiers without permission is frowned upon.

For non-Muslim visitors, the concept of şehitlik may not have a direct parallel, but it is comparable to a national war cemetery. Think of it like Arlington National Cemetery or the Menin Gate in Ypres, minus the bureaucratic guards. The staff here still consider it sacred ground. If visiting, speak softly and show reverence. Many Turkish families also come to scatter birdseed or small flags on graves; this is a Turk tradition reflecting the belief that feeding the birds symbolically feeds the souls of the departed. You may wish to do similar or at least stand in respect.

The Future of a Historic Landscape: Conservation and Tourism Development

The National Park Designation: A Commitment to Preservation

When the Turkish government declared Kop a national park in 2016, it signaled a clear intent to protect both its history and ecology. The park status (Kop Dağı Müdafaası Tarihî Milli Parkı) explicitly recognizes the site’s dual value. According to the founding documents, the goals are “to preserve the historical artifacts of the Kop battles and the natural environment of the Kop Mountains.” In practice, this has meant restricting activities that could damage trenches, graves, or endemic species. Off-road driving is prohibited everywhere except official parking lots. Logging is banned on the entire watershed of the park. Even grazing of livestock is controlled; shepherds may graze only in designated lower meadows, and they are required to not let animals trample the fragile pastures above.

Environmental surveys have been conducted to inventory species and chart critical habitats. One notable project (referenced in a local university journal) is an eco-tourism master plan for Kop. This includes proposals for boardwalks over the most delicate meadows, warning signs near the çarşak plant, and controlled observation decks at species-rich areas. The idea is to allow nature-minded tourists (for example, botanists or birders) to enjoy Kop’s biodiversity without undermining it. In fact, each spring a few scientific tours – organized by conservation NGOs – are formally allowed into restricted zones to study butterflies and plants. These groups work in tandem with the park to update conservation guidelines.

All these measures reflect a balance: opening the park to visitors and yet safeguarding its integrity. So far, the efforts seem to have worked. In the years since designation, the number of visitors has steadily grown (even before the tunnel was fully open) without a noticeable increase in litter or vandalism. Locals in Bayburt note that awareness campaigns (for example, distributing brochures and holding school events) have made people proud of Kop’s status and keen to protect it. It remains, however, a delicate balance. Heavy rains still threaten to collapse earthwork trenches unless they are periodically reinforced. And popular interest can wax and wane. One local official is on record saying that even a single summer music festival (the kind once loosely planned, thankfully never fully approved) could overwhelm the fragile ecosystem. The park authority must therefore manage visitors carefully.

Balancing Tourism with Conservation

Turkey today has become more active in promoting its lesser-known heritage sites. Kop is a test case: can a battlefield become a sustainable tourist site without being turned into a “historical theme park”? Early efforts suggest caution. For example, there are no plans to install large recreational facilities (no zip lines, no cafes except one small outdoor hut already built near the memorial). The big restaurant planned in 2018 is modest – essentially a snack kiosk and restroom facility. Hiking and quiet exploration remain the primary allowed activities.

The park rangers in 2025 number only a handful, supplemented by occasional soldiers. They conduct ID checks of tourists’ vehicles and give a brief safety talk about bears (yes, tourists have sometimes startled wild boars by accident). There is no entry fee yet, though one may come in future as part of the visitor center project. The attitude of the authorities now is educational: they put up panels telling the story of Kop at key points, and they strongly discourage off-trail wanderers during the snow-melt season to prevent erosion. In sum, the approach is lightly managed tourism with an emphasis on informed respect.

This keeps Kop from being “loved to death.” The same cannot be said for some other famous sites. At Gallipoli and Çanakkale in Western Turkey, mass tourism has required quotas and timed tickets to prevent overcrowding. Kop, by contrast, still feels remote. In 2020 the park saw only a few thousand visitors (the pandemic year) – a figure that likely doubles in a normal year. By contrast, Niğde’s Karain Cave, or Istanbul’s Topkapı Palace, might see millions annually. The relatively low foot traffic at Kop is precisely why its archaeology remains so intact. For cultural conservationists, Kop is being handled about as well as one could hope.

The Vision for Mount Kop: A Premier Historical Tourism Destination

All that said, there is no doubt that Turkey intends to promote Kop more actively. Statements from the Nature Conservation Ministry and local officials repeatedly call Kop “a potential flagship historical tourism site”. In speeches and news interviews, the park’s defenders speak of building “battle-viewing points” and educational paths so that even lay visitors can understand the topography.

Work on the visitor center (scheduled to open soon) is part of this vision. When open, it will anchor the park much like Gallipoli’s museums do, but in a less visceral, more park-like setting. Officials have indicated they want to attract not only Turkish history buffs but also foreign tourists who might be drawn by the World War I “Anzac Trail” or Eastern Front interest, or simply by adventurous natural tourism. The message in their brochures is explicit: “Here is where the Ottoman Empire held a line that could have led to Istanbul. Today’s visitors can stand where those soldiers stood, see the remaining trenches, and feel connected to that epic struggle.”

To that end, the park leadership in 2021 set a goal of reaching 50,000 visitors per year within a decade. (To put that in context, that would still be far less than 5% of the visitation at Gallipoli annually.) They are planning collaborations with historical societies in Europe; for example, some Turkish-French military history groups have already expressed interest in field trips. Closer to home, Kop is being added to the itinerary of multi-day “Anatolian WWI tours” that operate from Erzurum and Bayburt – often combined with visits to Erzurum’s Ottoman monuments and to the city of Trabzon. All of these are intended to make Kop not just a local memorial but part of global World War I heritage networks.

Of course, with growth come challenges. The most remote part of the park – deep in the ridges – is unlikely to see tourists for a while, keeping it pristine. The immediate summit area and main trenches will be the pressure points. But the authorities seem intent on slow, staged development: first the center, then perhaps a few marked trails, and then possibly guided tours on a reservation basis. They explicitly avoid building hotels or large restaurants on site. The Turkish government’s language in planning documents stresses sustainability: Kop’s future hinges on not turning it into just another resort, but into an educational pilgrimage site. Early signs suggest that Kop’s future trajectory will indeed be one of careful stewardship rather than unchecked commercialization.

Planning Your Expedition to Mount Kop Defense National Historic Park

Visiting Kop requires some logistical planning. This section compiles all the practical travel information you’ll need.

How to Get to Mount Kop National Park

By Car: Kop Pass is reached by the D915/E97 highway that connects Erzurum to Trabzon via Bayburt (the famous Zigana-Kop corridor). If you have a car, the drive from Erzurum city center to the summit parking area of Kop Pass is about 75 kilometers, roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive under normal conditions. From Bayburt city it is about 45 kilometers, 1–1.5 hours. The road is well-paved (Turkey’s highest-grade state road) but very winding with hairpin turns. During the summer it is open and safe; in winter, sections can be closed. Note that the Mount Kop Tunnel (scheduled for completion) will shorten travel by 6 km and make the route accessible in winter – once finished, one can drive under the 2,409m summit rather than over it, cutting travel time to about one hour. As of 2025, parts of the tunnel are operational, but locals still advise carrying chains if snow is forecast.

Park in the designated lot at Kop Geçidi (Pass) near the Kop Dağı Şehitliği signpost (about 2,400m elevation). From there, everything of interest is within hiking distance. If using GPS, enter “Mount Kop Martyrs Monument” or coordinates 40.0365°N, 40.4750°E. (Note: there is no fuel station or shop at the summit; the nearest services are in Kop village 8 km below or in Bayburt.)

Public Transport: Public transit options are limited. Visitors can take intercity buses to Bayburt or Erzurum (from Istanbul, Ankara, Trabzon, etc.) and then arrange a taxi or dolmuş (shared minivan) to Kop. There is no direct bus all the way to the pass, but minivans run daily from Bayburt to the Kop area (one boards at the Bayburt Otogar/bus terminal). Alternatively, Erzurum’s big Otogar has buses to Bayburt every hour; from Bayburt’s otogar you’ll need a car. Some adventurous travelers hitchhike between Bayburt–Kop at the main highway junction.

For an even more local flavor, consider visiting during a traditional festival or holiday convoy. For example, on March 18th (Gallipoli Remembrance Day) and July 15th (local commemoration of Kop), the Turkish Red Crescent often runs special coaches to the pass carrying veterans and officials. Foreign visitors can sometimes join these events by purchasing tickets (to be checked via Turkish news portals). Otherwise, your best bet is a hire car or joining a small-group tour. Local tour operators in Erzurum and Bayburt now offer packages that include transportation – both 4×4 vans and minibuses.

Nearest Airports: The closest airport is Erzurum Airport (ERZ), about 80 km from Kop. National carriers fly there from Istanbul and Ankara almost daily. From the airport you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Erzurum city, then proceed by road as above. There is also Trabzon Airport (TZX) on the Black Sea, about 200 km from Kop, which might be an option if combining with a Black Sea itinerary. However, Erzurum is far more convenient for Kop.

Once you arrive at the Kop parking area, note that cell phone reception can be spotty in places (especially deep near the trenches). Download maps offline if possible. There is no public Wi-Fi or services on site.

The Best Time of Year to Visit

Kop’s climate is alpine. The best window for general visitors is mid-May through September. During these months the roads are clear, wildflowers bloom, and the weather is usually mild (cool to warm by day, chilly at night). Specifically:

• Summer (June–July): Warm days, ideal for hiking. Butterflies and flowers are at peak. Long daylight means more exploring time. Pack light layers; afternoons can reach 15–20°C, but night falls quickly to near 5–10°C even in July. Be prepared for sudden rain or hail in afternoons. Pros: all attractions are open, no snow, maximum accessibility. Cons: warmest mosquitoes (carry repellent), and occasional tourist groups.
• Spring (late May): Snow is melting. Patches of white may linger into June. Wildflowers emerge and cherries blossom in Bayburt below. Pros: very few tourists, dramatic melting snows. Cons: some high trails may be muddy or slick; high mountain pastures might be hard if snowbound.
• Autumn (September–early October): Cooler, clear days and generally dry. The larch trees on Kop turn gold by late September. Pros: crisp weather, no bugs, fall colors. Cons: early snows can arrive unpredictably by late October – the Kop road may close.
• Winter (November–April): Virtually all park roads are closed under snow. The Kop Tunnel may be the only way to reach the area on some days, but the monument itself is snowbound. Only serious backcountry skiers or snowmobile groups (rarely) attempt it. We do not recommend a winter visit unless you are an experienced mountaineer. Average high in January is below 0°C; snowdrifts easily block local roads.

In summary: plan for late spring to early autumn. If you want butterflies and greenery, aim for June–July. If you prefer solitude and golden slopes, try September. Whatever season, always check local weather forecasts the day before (snowfall can happen above 2000m even in May). Also, the Koroglu Mountains (near Kop) can create their own fog banks, so the pass can occasionally vanish in mist. Altitude sickness is uncommon at 2600m, but if you feel dizzy, take it slow on the first hike up.

Accommodation: Where to Stay Near the Park

There are no hotels or guesthouses at the mountain itself. Visitors must stay in towns below. Two logical bases:

• Bayburt (town): A small city (population ~70,000) 45 km from Kop. It has several modest hotels and pensions (e.g. “Baysel Otel,” “Asmalı Konak” or similar). Prices range from $25–$50 per night for a clean double room. Bayburt is charming and ancient: its hilltop castle, Ottoman wooden houses, and excellent cuisine (especially liver dishes) make it a fine stop. After exploring Kop by day, many tourists overnight in Bayburt and return for a second morning hike.
• Aşkale / Erzurum Route: If you cannot find lodging in Bayburt or prefer Erzurum’s city comforts, the hotel-rich city of Erzurum (1,800m elevation) is 75 km away. There are dozens of hotels ranging from budget to luxury (check out the old town area or near Erzurum Castle). From Erzurum to Kop in the morning is a reasonable trip via the D915 road. The logistics are a bit heavier (you have to drive past Kop to do this, then turn around) but Erzurum offers more choices and fine dining after a long day.
• Tent Camping: Note that camping is not officially allowed in the national park (due to heritage protection and fire risk). However, some adventurous hikers do camp very carefully near the summit at their own risk. If you must camp, pick a spot with no vegetation (rocky ground) well away from trenches, and never light an open fire (small backpacking stoves with fuel canisters are safer). In practice, most visitors prefer the comfort of a hotel the night before and after their Kop excursion.

What to Pack and Prepare For

• Clothing: Layered clothing for mountain weather. Even summer days are chilly at dawn (down jacket or fleece recommended). Bring a waterproof windbreaker and thermal underlayers. Wool socks and sturdy hiking boots are a must – the terrain is rocky and often uneven. Hiking poles can help on the steep ups and downs.
• Safety Gear: A flashlight (or headlamp) in case you stay late. Bear spray is not necessary here (Bears avoid humans), but a loud whistle or airhorn may be handy for scaring away any curious fox or boar at dawn. Basic first aid supplies (blister treatment, bandaids) for long walks.
• Sun Protection: High-altitude sun is strong. Sunglasses with good UV protection, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential even on cloudy days. Lip balm (with SPF) is wise.
• Food and Water: Bring plenty of water – the nearest reliable spring is at lower elevation (about 1 km below the pass). On a busy summer day, a small kiosk by the monument sells water and tea, but do not count on it always being stocked. Pack snacks (trail mix, fruit, energy bars) since the exertion will burn calories. Eating on the go (nuts or dried fruit) is common, but do so away from graves. After visiting Kop, plan to eat in Bayburt or Erzurum – there are no restaurants or stores on the mountain.
• Navigation: A detailed map or GPS device is helpful. Cell phones often lose signal near the summit, so download any needed trail apps or maps beforehand.
• Respectful Attire: Because you will visit memorials and possibly mingled Turkish families, avoid beachwear or overly casual attire. Long pants and shirts are better. Some Turkish men remove hats at the monument, and women keep shoulders covered.
• Photocopies of ID: Turkish law requires a form of ID at national parks. Carry your passport or Turkish ID. They will be checked at the ranger station on your way in.
• Language: Signs and marks are largely Turkish. Some English or Arabic phrases (like “şehitlik, anıt, tarihi” for “martyrs’, monument, historic”) on your phone translation app may be useful. Locals appreciate any attempt at Turkish greetings (“Merhaba” for hello, “Teşekkür ederim” for thank you).

With these preparations, most travelers report the Kop experience as profoundly rewarding and safe. It is as much a spiritual journey as a hike – many return home with photographs, sketches, or journal entries about the vigil they kept at 2,600 meters among the pines.

Beyond the Battlefield: Exploring the Surrounding Bayburt and Erzurum Region

A trip to Kop can be combined with other gems of Eastern Anatolia for an enriching itinerary. Both Bayburt and Erzurum offer historical and cultural sites that complement the battlefield visit:

• Bayburt Castle: Overlooking the city of Bayburt, this medieval fortress (rebuilt in stone by the Karakoyunlu in the 15th century) provides panoramic views of the Çoruh Valley. The climb is not difficult, and it’s often paired with a visit to the Kop monument as a “watchtower to watchtower” experience.
• Baksı Museum (Bayburt): A modern art and ethnography museum perched on a hillside above Bayburt town. Although not related to Kop, it showcases Anatolian rural life and occasionally hosts exhibitions on regional history. It is about 20 minutes by car from Bayburt center. A nice café-restaurant on site lets you try local butter tea and gözleme.
• Erzurum’s Historic Sites: Erzurum is one of Turkey’s oldest cities. Notable sights include the Twin Minaret Madrasa (Çifte Minareli Medrese, 13th century), the Ulu (Grand) Mosque with its 13 domes, and the Ottoman-era Rüstem Paşa Caravanserai. Just outside Erzurum is the Three Tombs (Üç Kümbetler), which are 14th-century princely mausolea with stunning turquoise tile. History buffs might also visit the Erzurum Congress Hall (site of a key meeting of the War of Independence).
• Palandöken Ski Mountain: If visiting in winter or early spring, the Palandöken range near Erzurum offers skiing and a chance to experience local highland culture at a ski resort. (Not directly related to Kop, but worth the detour if you want to see more mountains or enjoy Turkish winter sports.)
• Travel Itinerary Tip: Many travelers create a multi-day loop: e.g. Fly into Erzurum (day 1), explore Erzurum’s sites (day 2), drive to Bayburt (en route a quick stop at Tortum Waterfall), stay overnight Bayburt, hike Kop next morning (day 3), return via Tortum or even take a ferry on the Black Sea at Trabzon to complete a circuit. The roads in the region are well-maintained, and summer yields long daylight for exploring several places in one day.

By integrating Kop with the surrounding heritage, a trip becomes more than a single-site excursion: it becomes a tapestry of Ottoman, Seljuk, and natural history across Eastern Anatolia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Mount Kop Defense National Historic Park

What is the historical significance of Mount Kop Defense National Historic Park?
The park commemorates the 1916 Battle of Kop Dağı, where the Ottoman Third Army under Fevzi Çakmak famously halted the Russian advance. It is considered one of the last great Turkish victories of WWI, often called the “Second Plevna.” The defense changed the course of the Caucasus front by preventing the Russians from reaching central Anatolia.

Who commanded the Ottoman forces at the Kop Defense?
The Ottoman defense was organized by Mareşal Fevzi Çakmak, then a Major-General (Mirliva) commanding the Fifth Corps. He was part of the Ottoman Third Army. Other commanders included Lieutenant General Halit (Karsıalan) Bey and Colonel Bahaeddin Bey, who each led detachments on the front.

What are the “şehitlikler” (martyrs’ memorials) at Mount Kop?
Şehitlik means a martyr’s cemetery. At Kop, the term refers both to the main stone Martyrs’ Monument on the summit and to several burial sites of Ottoman soldiers. These are treated as sacred graves of the şehitler. In practice, the summit monument of 1963 is the focal memorial, and nearby ground contains mass graves discovered by archaeologists. Visiting them is done with reverence, akin to visiting a national war cemetery.

What is the Kop Şehitler Anıtı (Kop Martyrs’ Monument)?
It is the stone memorial erected in 1963 at the summit of Kop Mountain, honoring the Ottoman soldiers killed in the 1916 battles. It is made of local stone, concrete, and marble, and stands above the trenchlines. Visitors can approach it freely to pay respects.

What kind of plants and animals live in the park?
Mount Kop’s high-altitude ecosystem is rich. Botanically, it has alpine wildflowers and grasslands, including the endangered endemic plant Stachys bayburtensis (the “Çarşak” grass). Faunistically, Kop is especially renowned for its butterflies – over 130 species, 10 of which are found only here. Mammals include lynx, bears, wolves, foxes and mountain goats. Birdlife includes raptors and mountain songbirds.

Are there butterflies in Mount Kop National Park?
Yes. Kop is noted as one of Turkey’s richest butterfly habitats. Over 134 species have been recorded, including rare and endemic species. You’ll see many on sunny days in summer, especially near wildflower meadows.

What are the future tourism plans for the park?
The Turkish government plans a visitors’ center and museum to open soon. Projects include building exhibits about the battle and the ecosystem, and creating designated trails and observation points. The aim is to develop Kop as a historical-educational site while protecting its environment.

When is the best time to visit Mount Kop?
Generally late spring to early autumn (May–September). Summer (June–July) offers green meadows and warm weather, while autumn brings fall colors. Winter access is very difficult due to heavy snow, so avoid November–April unless you have specialized gear and experience. For butterflies and flowers, mid-summer is best; for cooler hikes, September is ideal.

How do I get to Mount Kop?
By road: Kop Pass is on the D915 highway. It is 45 km from Bayburt and 75 km from Erzurum. Private car is easiest. There are occasional minibuses from Bayburt. The nearest airport is Erzurum (ERZ). From Erzurum or Bayburt, drive or hire transport along the highway toward Trabzon to reach the park entrance.

Are guided tours available?
Currently, there are no official ranger-guided tours inside the park. Some local drivers or tour agencies in Erzurum/Bayburt offer private guided trips. Otherwise, visitors explore on foot with maps or apps. In future, the park may offer guided historical walks once the visitor center opens.

Is Mount Kop National Park worth visiting?
We believe so. Kop offers a blend of profound historical significance and striking natural beauty unmatched elsewhere. You can literally walk the battlefield in spectacular mountain scenery. It is particularly meaningful for those interested in World War I history or Turkish heritage. Even for general travelers, the views, tranquility, and chance to see unique plants and butterflies make it worthwhile. Admission is free, and the experience is unlike any other Turkish national park.

Conclusion: Mount Kop’s Enduring Legacy as a Symbol of Resilience

Mount Kop stands, a silent sentinel over Eastern Anatolia, forever entwined with the story of a nation at war. Here, under stone and sky, we remember how ordinary soldiers turned a forbidding mountain pass into a bastion of defense. Today, the Kop landscape remains untouched in many ways – the very trenches and tombs as fresh as a century ago, and the winds carrying the same cold light of dawn. Yet it also teems with life: red foxes dart through the grasses, rare mint blooms quietly, and butterflies dance where guns once roared.

This National Historic Park thus holds a dual legacy. It is at once a sacred memorial to those who gave their lives, and a natural treasure of ecology and geology. Its 100th-anniversary designation as a park was not simply bureaucratic; it was an acknowledgment that memory and nature here are inseparable. In the Turkish soul, Kop symbolizes the resilience of a small army against a great foe. For the wider world, it offers a place of contemplation: where the global convulsion of World War I found a quiet, mountainous climax.

Preserving Kop is, in essence, preserving a chapter of human courage written in stone. It reminds us that even in defeat, the fight on those slopes helped shape a future Turkey. As visitors tread lightly among its memorials and meadows, they carry forward that story. Every respectful step down the old pathway, every wildflower admired, is an act of remembrance. Kop’s lasting message is one of remembrance and reverence: the mountain endures, as do the memories of those who held it.