In Aziziye, Ilıca’s thermal attractions are complemented by a 25,000 m² recreation area right next to the facilities. This gives you different options to consider when planning your trip: separate bathing areas, landscaped green spaces and traces of history. Those weighing up thermal facilities, green spaces and local history will find several specific reasons to visit.
Thermal Water and Bathing Areas
The Ilıca thermal facilities have three separate swimming pools: one for men, one for women and one for groups. The facilities also include a sauna, a Turkish bath and a Finnish bath. In addition to the pools, the thermal area therefore offers a range of bathing facilities. The spring water has a temperature of 39 °C and is rich in sodium and bicarbonate.
The Ilıca thermal springs were already used as baths during the reign of the Saltukids. This historical connection adds a long history of local use to today’s thermal attractions. Visitors who consider cultural history alongside bathing facilities when choosing a destination will find a tangible connection to the area’s past.
Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
A physiotherapy and rehabilitation centre has been established within the Ilıca thermal facilities. Under a protocol with Atatürk University, patients receiving treatment in its Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation can use the municipality’s physiotherapy and thermal facilities. Use of the facilities is therefore conditional on receiving treatment in the specified university department.
Thermal treatment at the centre is intended to be used as a supportive treatment for rheumatic, musculoskeletal, orthopaedic and neurological conditions. The medical and rehabilitative services are a distinct aspect of the thermal facilities; they differ from the bathing areas in terms of the patient group and the stated supportive purpose of treatment.
The Recreation Area Next to the Thermal Facilities
The Şehit Prof. Dr. İlhan Varank Recreation Area is located next to the Ilıca thermal facilities in Ilıca Mahallesi and covers 25,000 m². Its many trees, shrubs and ornamental plants give the grounds the character of a botanical garden. Other features include an illuminated ornamental pool and 52 covered, glass-enclosed gazebos. The grounds also have two large children’s play areas.
Walking paths, pergolas and benches complement the green spaces. The area thus offers dedicated places for walking and relaxing alongside the thermal facilities. The play areas, gazebos and ornamental pool are further specific features, while the plants define the grounds’ garden-like character.
Historic Buildings Nearby
Buildings in the vicinity of Aziziye were formerly used as a village institute. The relevant Cultural and Natural Heritage Preservation Board has registered them as worthy of preservation and placed them under protection. They are about 2 km from the district centre. This adds another cultural point of interest to the thermal springs and recreation area; the buildings’ former use and protected status give visits to the area a historical perspective.
For the broader travel overview: Erzurum.
