Elazığ is a provincial capital in Eastern Anatolia, Turkey, situated at around 1,000 metres above sea level in the upper Euphrates valley. Home to roughly 400,000 people in the city proper, Elazığ is best known for the ancient hilltop settlement of Harput — a ruined citadel with a 3,000-year history — and the magnificent Hazar Lake to its south, one of Turkey's most scenic natural bodies of water. The region produces some of Turkey's finest red wines from the indigenous Boğazkere and Öküzgözü grapes, and its lamb-centric cuisine reflects deep Eastern Anatolian traditions. Nearby Keban Dam Lake created one of the country's largest reservoirs, and the flooded valleys now harbour picturesque island castles like Pertek.
Elazığ is a mid-sized provincial capital with good intercity connections but limited local public transport. The airport (EZS) is just 4 km from the city centre, making it very convenient. Within the city, shared dolmuş minibuses are the main form of transport. Taxis are plentiful and affordable. No metro or tram exists. Car rental is recommended for day trips to Hazar Lake (22 km), Pertek Castle (60 km via Keban), and Palu (45 km east). Intercity buses connect Elazığ to all major Turkish cities.
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