Akdağmadeni, located 103 km east of Yozgat, is a district rich in both historical and natural features. It was established as a settlement in 1815 and became a municipality in 1862, making it the second municipality to be founded in Turkey after Beyoğlu in 1858. The district gained its administrative status in 1871. Akdağmadeni is one of the oldest districts of Yozgat. According to the first population census in 1831, when the total population of Yozgat was around 60,000, Akdağmadeni had approximately 19,000 residents.
The district is also rich in mineral resources, with zinc, iron, lead, and other various minerals being extracted. Akdağmadeni is surrounded by the beautiful forests of the Akdağ mountain range, which are home to pine, oak, and juniper trees. A distinctive feature of the yellow pine tree is that it is used as a support post in mining operations and gives warning signals through cracking sounds before a collapse occurs. Additionally, the orchids found in the forests of Akdağmadeni produce the highest-quality salep in the country. Another valuable mushroom species, known as *göbelek*, grows in these forests and is used in the pharmaceutical industry.
The district is also notable for its historical heritage, with 12 registered historical buildings. The ongoing restoration of these structures indicates Akdağmadeni's increasing potential for tourism. The hot springs in the Karadikmen village, which reach 50°C and flow at a rate of 100 liters per second, suggest that the district will soon be a rising center for thermal tourism.
According to official figures announced at the end of 2011, Akdağmadeni is the only district in Yozgat that saw its population grow, rather than decrease. This ongoing development reflects that Akdağmadeni, a district with significant historical roles in the past, continues to grow and is quickly becoming one of the distinguished districts of the Central Anatolia region.
With its rich history, natural resources, and ongoing development, Akdağmadeni is steadily advancing as a key district in the region, poised to become a major tourism and economic hub in the near future.
### Akdağmadeni’s History and Cultural Background
Akdağmadeni was established in the mid-19th century as a mining settlement with administrative authority, and it was initially named "Madenciler" (Miners) due to its association with mining operations. The exact date of its founding is not known, as the region was primarily forested until 1815. The district’s population grew significantly with the establishment of a lead mining facility in the area, drawing workers from Gümüşhane, Trabzon, Arapgir, and Ahıska. By 1871, Akdağmadeni achieved district status.
In 1923, the town had a population of 1,250 households, but the population dropped significantly after the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in 1924-1927, during which Greek and Armenian residents were relocated to Greece. However, 266 Turkish households, mostly from the Kayalar region of Thessaloniki, were resettled in Akdağmadeni, though many later migrated to other areas, resulting in a continued decline in population. During the same period, 790 families from Romania, Bulgaria, and Yugoslavia were settled in the villages, though two-thirds of them later migrated elsewhere. These immigrants, primarily tobacco farmers, were settled in the tobacco-growing regions of Akdağmadeni.
The district’s foundation and its administrative evolution are tied to the broader historical context of Yozgat, which was once part of the Bozok Province. Akdağmadeni was originally part of the Karahisar Beyramşah district, and its central administration was moved several times between Akdağmadeni and Karamağara (Saraykent) before it settled permanently in Akdağmadeni in 1876.
### Origin of Akdağmadeni’s Name
The name "Akdağmadeni" is derived from the area's mining heritage. A zinc-lead mining operation was established at the foot of Mount Akdağ, and the term "Maden" (mine) was added to describe the settlement. Over time, this area became known as "Akdağmadeni," meaning "the mine of the Akdağ mountains."
### Historical Sites to Visit
1. **Old Church (Greek Church)**
* **Location:** Yeşildere (Tahmaz) Village
* **Year of Construction:** 1862
* **Architectural Features:**
* Stone and marble facade
* Rounded arch entrance with Greek inscriptions above and below the door
* Square-plan interior with 8 columns dividing the space
* Wooden arches and stone-tiled floor
* Cross and geometric motifs on the plaster
* **Current Status:** The church is planned for restoration and conversion into a tourist attraction.
2. **İstanbulluoğlu Mosque (Formerly the Old Church, Now a Mosque)**
* **Year of Construction:** 1907
* **Features:**
* Three-nave basilica plan
* Stone construction with a later-added minaret
* The narthex was closed off, creating side rooms
* **Current Status:** Converted into a mosque in 1962, still open for worship.
3. **Other Historical Sites:**
* **Old Prison Building:** Originally built as an inn, later converted into a prison, and now serves as the public library.
* **Old PTT Building:** Located in Ahisavi Mahallesi, with inscriptions from 1216 and 1719, currently housing a health center.
* **Old Military Recruitment Office (Guest House):** A former Greek structure, later used as a military building, now a guesthouse after restoration.
* **Rıfat Koç Mansion:** A traditional Turkish mansion, still used as a residence.
* **Old Ziraat Bank Building:** Built using materials from a former Greek church; currently vacant.
* **Muşali (Behramşah) Castle / Alişir Monastery / Ali Çelebi Mausoleum:** Located near Muşalikalesi village, a notable historical and cultural site.
### Natural Attractions
* **Akdağ Forests and Plateaus:** Ideal for hiking, photography, and picnicking.
* **Ponds and Streambanks:** Great spots for fishing and relaxing in nature.
* **Pine Forests:** Offer cool, refreshing environments during the summer months.
* **Hiking Trails:** Various routes of different lengths and difficulty levels between villages, forests, and plateaus.
### Cultural Experiences
* **Local Markets:** Discover natural products, handmade foods, and regional clothing.
* **Traditional Dishes:**
* Testi Kebab (Pottery Kebab)
* Tandır (Clay Oven Meat)
* Tarhana Soup
* Village Bread
* Homemade Grape Molasses
### Rules to Follow While Visiting
1. **Respect Historical Sites:**
* Do not damage the buildings; protect stone and wooden surfaces.
* Ask for permission before taking photos.
2. **Protect Nature:**
* Carry your trash or dispose of it in recycling bins.
* Avoid harming plants, trees, and wildlife.
3. **Maintain Peace and Quiet:**
* Do not play loud music in the plateaus, forests, or historical areas.
* Avoid disturbing animals.
4. **Fire and Picnic Regulations:**
* Do not light fires in forested areas; use designated picnic areas.
* Always extinguish the fire completely before leaving.
5. **Respect Local Culture:**
* Be mindful of local traditions and customs, especially in villages.
* Show respect to residents and be aware of their practices.
6. Safety and Health Precautions
* Avoid long hiking routes without a guide.
* Carry sufficient water, food, and first aid supplies for your journey.
Akdağmadeni’s combination of rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage offers visitors a unique experience. By respecting the environment and local traditions, tourists can fully enjoy the treasures of this remarkable district.