Recently, a miracle happened, I saw snow in Turkey for the first time in many years. we were carried away to the distant expanses of the north of Turkey in the region of Mala, we went on a kind of expedition to the river in the highlands down the hill.
It is always interesting to discover some unexplored corners that are difficult to reach but very exciting. Since we usually live in a warm region, we don't have winter clothes, so to protect our ears from the frost, we wore Santa Claus hats, which looked very funny but festive.
Walking down the snowy ground, we froze in horror when we saw the huge footprints of a bear and its cub. Continuing our way down, we met many rose bushes and collected berries for medicinal tea. In general, this valley was so frosty and breathtaking at sunset, you feel this scale and elevation.
The air was cool, but with a purity that filled the lungs with invigorating energy. In this region, there are very unusual mountains and also rose bushes, dry grass, very atypical nature. As we descended, we were mesmerized by the distinctive green color of the surrounding rocks.
These greenish shades, although partially covered with snow, seemed almost magical under the rays of the setting sun. I learned that this particular color comes from the unique geological makeup of the mountains in the Hekimhan region. These rock formations bear witness to millions of years of tectonic movements and volcanic activity, sculpting the current landscape with raw and awe-inspiring beauty.
According to my research, they are composed of metamorphic rocks rich in minerals such as chlorite and serpentinite, which give these landforms their unique color. These mountains are majestic, silent guardians of local traditions. Local residents say that, according to ancient beliefs, this green shade is a gift of "earthly jinn" who sanctified the land so that it would remain fertile even in the harshest winters.
This legend takes on its full meaning when we observe the traces of life that dot these slopes. As we descended, each turn opened up a new perspective. The mountain ranges were dotted with strange boulders, sculpted by centuries of erosion. These formations sometimes seemed to be the remains of ancient ruins, but in fact they were the creations of a patient and creative character.
The slopes were dotted with juniper bushes and single trees struggling to survive in this harsh climate. Approaching the foothills, we finally reached our destination of a beautiful river that is half covered with ice and the other half is still actively murmuring and flowing into small waterfalls from time to time opening stupid icicles.
This river seemed like a sacred sacrifice in the valley of these mountains. Its icy waters, surrounded by these green giants, created the impression of a living painting, where every element had its place. The contrast between the liveliness of the stream and the majestic calm of the mountains created an almost mystical atmosphere.
These mountains are not only beautiful, they are alive. They tell a story – of the titanic geological forces that shaped them, of the seasons that still shape them. As we made our way back to our starting point, I couldn't help but think that this expedition was more than just an adventure.
It was a lesson in endurance and tenacity in the midst of harsh elements. These mountains, with their mysterious greenery, legends and majestic silence, offered me much more than landscapes. Having passed the difficulties of climbing and reaching the top, it gives you a complete feeling of lightness and freedom in yourself.
