Ağrı, the exceptional city in Eastern Turkey, is renowned for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. One of its most remarkable attractions is the Ağrı Meteor Pit, the second-largest meteor crater in the world, located in the Doğubayazıt district near the Iranian border.
What Is the Ağrı Meteor Pit?
The Ağrı Meteor Pit, formed in 1892, is believed to have resulted from a powerful meteor impact. Local accounts and historical records report a massive explosion near the village of Gülveren, initially mistaken for an earthquake. Following the event, the nearby river turned murky—an indication of the blast’s intensity. Today, this enormous pit continues to intrigue scientists and tourists alike.
Ağrı
Where Is It Located?
The meteor pit is situated 35 km east of the Doğubayazıt district, just 2 km from the Gürbulak border gate, which connects Turkey and Iran. Its accessible location makes it a must-see stop for those traveling in Eastern Anatolia.
Features of the Ağrı Meteor Pit
The crater originally measured 60 meters deep and 35 meters wide, making it the second-largest meteor crater on Earth after the one in Alaska. Due to rainfall and snow accumulation over time, the depth has slightly decreased to around 40 meters, but its immense geological structure remains an impressive sight.
Sea fossils discovered around Mount Ağrı before the ark was found suggested that there could have been an ocean in this area during ancient times.
Touristic Importance
This natural wonder attracts over ten thousand tourists each year. The rise of social media has boosted its popularity not only among local visitors but also international travelers. Its proximity to other iconic landmarks such as the Ishak Pasha Palace, the tomb of Ahmed-i Hani, and the alleged remains of Noah’s Ark adds to the region’s tourism value. The Ağrı Meteor Pit is now considered a cornerstone of Eastern Turkey’s tourism.
Mount Ararat
