Baskil

Baskil is a town in Elazığ Province in the Eastern Anatolia Region of Turkey. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,350 meters above sea level. The town is located in the Plateau of Eastern Anatolia and has a continental climate.

Geography and Climate

Baskil has a moderate climate with cold winters and hot summers. The average annual temperature is around 10 degrees Celsius. The district borders the provinces of Malatya and Tunceli to the north, west, and east respectively, and Elazığ's Ilıpınar district to the south. The position of Baskil in the lower slopes of the Elazığ Mountains has an influence on the rainfall and temperature patterns in the area. The district's terrain is hilly, with most areas elevated at 1,300-1,400 meters above sea level.

History and Culture

The history of Baskil dates back to the Kuman and Mongol-era Iron Ages. The area became increasingly populated during the Kharput Sultanate in the 12th century. Later, it was conquered by the Seljuks and then the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century. The history of the region includes periods of Bektaşi immans who organized an important part of their élan.

Economy and Demographics

The economy of Baskil is primarily based on agriculture and livestock breeding. The production of tobacco, wheat, cotton, and olive oil is significant to the local economy. Additionally, there is a small-scale industrial activity, mainly focused on food production. As of 2020, the population of the district stands at approximately 22 thousand people, mostly native Kurds and Turks.