The Kars “Kalesi” or citadel was built during the 12th century. In the 16th century, it formed the core of the Kars Kaleici or Ottoman historic district. Traditionally, the city served as a bridge between Anatolia and the Caucasus and is characterized by Armenian, Ottoman, Turkish and Russian architecture.

The Kars Provincial Governor, the city’s mayor and a local businessman participate in the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Namik Kemal Cultural Center.

Two of the last remaining Ottoman period houses in the Kars Historic District. Emigration of local people to urban areas, combined with the city’s decline as a regional economic hub, has contributed to the deterioration of the district.

The ancient city of Ani, located on the border between Turkey and Armenia, was built in the 7th century and flourished as one of the most important cities along the Silk Road until the 14th century. A cathedral, a round church and the minaret of the first mosque in Anatolia (shadow) are visible in this image.