Opened on February 9, 2022, on the 48th anniversary of the foundation of our university, It is the second university history museum in Turkey. The museum displays various documents, items, publications, photographs, and artwork that tell the history of the university from its founding in 1974 to the present day. The majority of the items on display were obtained from the university’s archives and various departments, as well as donations from individuals who have contributed to the university. The art collection was also entirely acquired through donations, and efforts are ongoing to continue developing and updating both collections.

Natural History Museum

Located within the university’s 4 Eylül Culture Center, Natural History Museum houses a vast collection of geological and biological specimens from Sivas and beyond. With over 3,000 exhibits, including minerals, rocks, fossils, and plant and animal specimens, our museum provides a window into the Earth’s past and present. Explore the diversity of our planet’s geology and learn about natural phenomena such as earthquakes and volcanoes. Our interactive displays, including a smoking volcano model, augmented reality sandbox, and microscopic examinations, bring science to life for visitors of all ages. Many of our exhibits were generously donated by individuals and organizations, and we proudly recognize their contributions in our displays.

Named after the Kangal district in Sivas Kangal dog is a valuable and unique local breed in Turkey known for its massive size, domestic nature towards the owner and its amazing ability to protect flocks from external threats, particularly against wolves. The breed’s history can be traced back to ancient Anatolian civilizations, and it is considered to be a cultural heritage of our country, particularly in the Sivas region. The Kangal Dog Research Center aims to promote the breeding of Kangal dogs under optimal conditions and has been recently renovated to provide suitable living conditions for the breed.

Looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway? Hasbahçe Lake in Sivas Cumhuriyet University campus is the perfect destination for you. This serene artificial lake is a great place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of nature. You can take a leisurely walk or hike around the lake and enjoy the breathtaking views, or have a picnic on the grassy shores. There are also many places to sit and enjoy the tranquility of the area, making it the perfect place for a short break from the busy schedule of daily life n addition, don’t miss the chance to visit MiniaSivas, the miniature replicas of important historical buildings in Sivas within Sivas Castle, to see the historic Sivas within a few steps.

Hamidiye Park is a historic landmark that dates back to the reign of Abdülhamit Han. Originally built in 1889 as a horse stable for the palace, this area has since been transformed into a hub of entertainment and culture thanks to extensive restoration efforts led by Sivas Governorate and Sivas Provincial Administration Explore the history of horses in Turkish and global cultures and witness their importance in war and peace in War Horses Museum. Relax at Şale Book-Coffee Shop or seek adventure at Macera Parkı. Equestrian enthusiasts can visit Ferhan Geleneksel Atlı Sporlar Merkezi

We are thrilled to offer you the opportunity to indulge in the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Sivas and Turkey during our International Staff Week. Our lunch, which will be held in one of the most renowned restaurants in the city, will give you a chance to bond with your fellow participants from all over the world over a delicious meal and learn about the local culture through its food. The menu is carefully curated to showcase the best of Turkish cuisine, with a variety of traditional dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. From succulent meats to fresh vegetables and flavorful spices, we guarantee that you will leave feeling satisfied and inspired. Best of all, the lunch is completely free of charge for all of our participants!

The Sivas Historic City Square is a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike. The square is home to a unique blend of buildings from different eras of history, including the Seljuk Empire, Ottoman Empire, and Turkish Republic. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and striking designs of these structures, each of which tells its own unique story.

Buruciye Madrasa, is a must-see destination for any traveler interested in Islamic architecture and history. Built in 1271 during the reign of Seljuk Sultan III. Giyaseddin Keyhüsrev, this madrasa was designed to teach physics, chemistry, and astronomy to students. The building, which is known for its symmetrical and well-preserved design, features a magnificent crown gate, intricate tile work, and an open courtyard made of cut stone. With four-iwan and two-stories, Buruciye Medresesi is a true architectural masterpiece that showcases the skill and artistry of the Seljuk builders. Visitors will be amazed by the harmonious elements of the building, including the ornate windows on the sides of the crown gate and the corner towers with battlements.

Şifaiye Madrasa is one of the most important madrasas from the Seljuk era, where patients were treated and medical education was also carried out. The remaining part of the madrasa that still exists today is the largest infirmary in Anatolia. It was built in 1217/18 by King Izzeddin Keykavus. Visitors enter through a grandiose decorated entrance door to a courtyard with four porticos and arcades. On the entrance door, there are symbols of the sun and moon, and in the main portico, there are reliefs in the shape of a man and woman’s heads. In 1220, King Izzeddin Keykavus was buried here, and the southern portico was turned into a tomb

Double Minaret Madrasa (Çifte Minareli Medrese), which was built by the Ilkhanid Vizier Sahip Şemseddin Mehmet Cüveyni in 1271/1272. The original remaining feature of the building is its grand and imposing front façade with the highest portal in Anatolia. The two minarets rising above the portal have become a symbol of Sivas. It is one of the most beautiful madrasas ever built in Anatolia. The building has two floors and four porticos. The brick minarets on the portal are decorated with glazed tilework. The stone portal decorated with vegetal and geometric motifs, and give the building a dynamic appearance. It is still in good condition and open to visitors.

Kale Mosque, built in 1580 during the reign of Sultan Murad III by Ali Beyoğlu Mahmud Paşa, the Governor of Sivas, takes its name (kale- fortress) from its unique square fortress-like design, constructed of cut stone for the walls and brick for the minaret. It is one of the most important examples of Ottoman era mosque architecture.

The mosque also features two striking stone structures on either side of the mosque. One of these is a partially hollowed stone located in the courtyard in front of the mosque, known as the “Sadaka Stone.” It was traditionally used by Muslims who attended the evening prayer, to leave their donations in the hollowed section of the stone. Similarly, people in need who wanted to keep their poverty private would only take what they needed from the stone during the darkness of night, being careful not to take more than their fair share.

The second stone, located beneath the minaret, is known as the “Stone of the Lost.”. It is believed to have been used in the past as a place for people to leave valuable items, such as jewelry or money, that they had found. The mosque’s caretakers would keep the items safe and return them to their rightful owners when they came looking for them as the first place

Sivas Ulu Mosque is not just any ordinary mosque, it is a treasure trove of history and culture, steeped in rich tradition and heritage. As one of the oldest mosques in Anatolia, it stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Danismend period. Built in 1196-1197 by Kul Ahi during the reign of II. Kılıç Arslan’s son, Kutbettin Melik Shah, the mosque is a beautiful example of the collective space concept in mosque architecture.
The cylindrical minaret with a octagonal base is located in the southeast corner, it’s body is made of brick and decorated with tiles. The minaret, which leans to one side, resembles the Leaning Tower of Pisa and is a must-see attraction

Experience the beauty of Turkish architecture and decoration at Gök Medrese, one of the most important structures of its kind. Built in 1271 by Vezir Sahip Ata Fahreddin Ali during the reign of IV. Kılıçaraslan’s son III. Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev, the building boasts a rich appearance with its marble stone entrance and intricate play of light and shadow. The open courtyard, four-eyvans, and two-story plan of the structure make it a must-see for any lover of history and art. Originally serving as a madrasa for religious studies, the building was converted into a museum. After decades of renovation the Museum was opened to public in 2021.

Take advantage of your free time during the International Staff Week programme and explore the beauty of the surrounding area. With 1 and a half hours of free time, you will have the opportunity to visit the places of interest in the area.. This is the perfect chance to relax, rejuvenate and take in the sights and sounds of the local culture while your are waiting for the cultural night.

Experience the mysticism and beauty of the Sema ritual, performed by the whirling dervishes, at the historic Susamışlar Mansion. This 18th-century mansion, with its grand entrance and ornate fountain, serves as the perfect setting for this traditional Sufi ceremony. Accompanied by the soothing sounds of traditional Sufi music, and served with traditional Turkish tea, this event is not to be missed. The Susamışlar Konağı, which was restored by Sivas municipality, is a unique blend of history, culture and art, that will transport you back in time. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this unforgettable cultural experience and witness the mesmerizing Sema ritual at the Susamışlar Konağı.”

Participants from the following universities are going to give 10min online presentations about their universities to our students and staff.

• Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine
• Mogadishu University, Somalia
• University of Tirana, Albania
• Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Morocco
• Al Quds University, Palestine
• Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania
• Pokhara University, Nepal

• Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Lithuania
• University of Algiers, Algeria
• Kumasi Technical University, Ghana
• Georgian Technical University, Georgia
• Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia
• University Adriatic Bar

Are you interested in expanding your academic and professional horizons? Join us for an Internationalization Workshop, moderated by qualified Lecturer Murat ERCAN, where we will be discussing the digitalization of the Erasmus programme. During this workshop, we will delve into the latest trends and developments in the field of internationalization, with a specific focus on how technology and digitalization are shaping the Erasmus programme. You will have the opportunity to learn about the benefits and challenges of digitalization, as well as explore new ways to enhance your own internationalization experience. It will be an interactive and engaging experience, with plenty of opportunities for discussion and networking.

Join us during International Staff Week as Lecturer Emre SEVEN takes you on a journey to understand how our brains and minds process communication between different cultures. This seminar will provide you with valuable insights and strategies for effectively communicating with individuals from different backgrounds. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to improve your intercultural communication skills and gain a competitive edge in today’s globalized world.

Participants are free to to carry out their academic work at the departments.

Come and join us for an unforgettable day-trip excursion during International Staff Week to the stunning Gürün Gökpınar Lake. Nestled just 10 kilometers away from the city center, this natural gem boasts crystal clear and sweet water that is sure to take your breath away. With depths reaching up to 17-20 meters, the lake’s water is so clear that even small objects dropped in can be clearly seen all the way to the bottom. The lake also changes color depending on the angle of the sun, earning it its name “Gökpınar” which means “sky-blue.” The lake is split into two parts, the smaller “Küçük Göl” is used for trout production, while the larger “Büyük Göl” is a popular tourist destination for rafting and other activities. With an area of 3,000 square meters, Gürün Gökpınar Lake is like a natural aquarium, and its water is very sweet and cold. And the best part… A free lunch for all participants featuring fresh-caught trout from the lake. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Gürün Gökpınar Lake with us!

What about a visit to Kangal Balıklı Kaplıca, a renowned hot spring resort located in the Kangal district, Sivas. Its therapeutic qualities have made it famous for treating skin and rheumatic diseases. The hot springs’ unique features, including their chemical composition and the presence of special fish (doctor fish) that treat skin disorders, make Kangal Balıklı Kaplıca a must-visit destination. The resort offers four hotels, six pools, 16 private baths, a restaurant, a market, and a tea garden. So come and experience the healing waters and feel rejuvenated.

In the closing ceremony, Prof. Dr. Alim YILDIZ, Sivas Cumhuriyet University Rector is going to host all our participants in his Office. Participants will share their reflections of the 5-day programme. The programme will end with the certification ceremony and a photo session.

The grant will be paid at Vakıfbank Cumhuriyet University branch.