Work has begun to restore the Ahi Toman Baba mausoleum, located in Tebrizkapı, one of Erzurum's historic districts, behind the Narmanlı Mosque. The structure, which could not be seen from outside because of the houses and businesses around it, has been brought back to light after the removal of buildings in the area.
Following the restoration project prepared by Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality, implementation began to restore the mausoleum. Dating to approximately the 14th century, the structure is known by the name of Ahi Toman Baba, who is credited with establishing the ahi organization in Erzurum.
Surrounding buildings removed
As part of the municipality's work, around 10 buildings surrounding the mausoleum were dismantled. After expropriation, evacuation and demolition procedures, the registered historic structures became visible again.
The registered Ahıskalılar House, located in the same area, will also be brought back to light as part of the project. The surroundings of both historic structures will be arranged, and the sites are planned to be opened for visitors.
Careful restoration work under way
Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality Deputy Secretary-General Ünal İnci said the restoration phase began following urban transformation work launched in the area two years ago.
İnci said the density of buildings around the structures had negatively affected the visibility and preservation of historic monuments, adding that many people were unaware of the mausoleum because its front was blocked. He said the project was launched to bring the historic monuments to light.
Emphasizing that the restoration was not being carried out like an ordinary construction project, İnci said the projects approved by the Conservation Board were being implemented in detail. He added that special work was being conducted to prevent damage to the graves in the surrounding area.
Ahi Toman Baba's role in Erzurum
Ahi Toman Baba is credited with playing an important role in the formation of the ahi organization in Erzurum. The ahi tradition is described as having influenced the organization of tradespeople and commercial life in the city.
Ibn Battuta, the renowned traveler, is recorded as having stayed at Ahi Toman Baba's lodge when he visited Erzurum in 1331. İnci said Ibn Battuta praised the ahi organization in Erzurum, the city's hospitality and its commercial order.
2027 target
After the restoration is completed, the approximately 700-year-old mausoleum is targeted to become accessible to visitors in 2027 following the arrangement of its surroundings. The project is expected to contribute to Erzurum's cultural tourism.
The municipality established the Department of Urban Aesthetics to clear and reveal the surroundings of historic structures in the city. The department is intended to facilitate the allocation of funds for work on historic monuments and speed up implementation.
