Tuzluca Salt Mines

Tuzluca Salt Mines

Tuzluca is a district located in the Iğdır Province of Eastern Anatolia, with its northern portion forming part of the border between Turkey and Armenia. The name Tuzluca derives from the Turkish word "tuz," meaning salt, as the area has been known for its salt mines since medieval times. Today, a salt mine still operates in the district.

Tuzluca Salt Mines

Throughout history, Tuzluca was a part of various Armenian kingdoms and faced social and war-related challenges until it became an Ottoman frontier. The district is renowned for its salt mines, which have played a significant role in its development.

In 1746, the region was invaded by Iran and subsequently became part of the Erivan Khanate. Following the Russo-Persian War of 1826-1828 and the Treaty of Turkmenchay, Russia gained control over the area and made it into an Armenian Oblast, which later became the Erivan Governorate.

After the Russian Revolution, Tuzluca came under the administration of the Democratic Republic of Armenia. However, the Soviet Union ceded the district to Turkey in 1921 through a treaty signed with Turkey.

Tuzluca is known for its highland retreats for asthma patients, and the district is also known for growing apricots and other fruits and vegetables.