Lake Hafik

It is a karst lake—a term used to describe lakes found in areas with soluble rock. Because there are numerous lakes of various sizes in the region and Lake Hafik is the largest of them, it is known as “Büyük Göl” (Big Lake). The lake is fed by the Sultanpınarı and Kapaklı springs. Additionally, water accumulates at the lake bottom through seepage. Since it has a river—known as the Köy River—that connects the lake’s water to the Kızılırmak River, Lake Hafik is an open basin.

With an area of 1 km², Lake Hafik has shallow waters and is suitable for fishing and water sports. The lake has an average depth of 6 m. The lake’s water level reaches its maximum in the spring. Toward the end of summer, depending on rainfall in the region, the lake’s water level has been observed to drop significantly in some years. In fact, the lake consists of three basins. In dry years, the lake splits into three sections by the end of summer and rejoins in the spring.

Hafik Lake, one of the most popular picnic areas in Sivas Province, features picnic and recreational facilities along its shores.

Archaeological research has revealed that a settlement built on the water—a rarity in the ancient world—was established here. The Pılır Mound, located within the lake, is clear evidence of this settlement. At this mound, the presence of lake houses built on wooden posts driven into the lake bed has been identified.