The Mount Nemrut corporate trip is a two-day programme with one overnight stay that explores the archaeological sites of the Kingdom of Commagene in Adıyaman and, on the second morning, watches the sunrise from the summit of Mount Nemrut. The tumulus and colossal statues commissioned by King Antiochus I have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1987. The programme is designed for physically prepared department and project teams of 8-35.

What is in the programme?

On the first day, the Adıyaman Museum introduces the history of the region through Commagene artefacts and replica statues. After a regional lunch, the group visits the ancient city of Perre, with its rock tombs and water channels. At Arsameia, one of the capitals of Commagene, the royal inscriptions and the relief showing Mithras shaking hands with Antiochus can be seen. The single-arch Cendere Bridge, built in the reign of the Roman emperor Septimius Severus, the Karakuş Tumulus, a monumental tomb for the royal women, and the Old Kâhta Castle are the day's other stops. In the evening the group checks in at the hotel.

On the second day the group sets off after midnight and, before daybreak, walks from the summit car park to the east terrace. There is a photo stop as the sun lights up, one by one, the colossal heads of Zeus, Apollo, Heracles, the goddess of Commagene and Antiochus. The east and west terraces, the eagle and lion statues and the inscriptions are explored in detail with the guide; then, after breakfast and a rest at the hotel, the group returns to the airport.

Highlights

• Sunrise among the colossal statues on the summit of Mount Nemrut
• A route that tells the full story of Commagene through Arsameia, Karakuş and Perre
• The Roman-era Cendere Bridge over the Kâhta Stream
• In the residential package, one night in a hotel and all vehicle transfers within the region

Who Is It For?

It suits department and project teams of 8-35, and appeals to organisations looking for a different kind of experience as an incentive or executive programme, where overcoming a shared challenge together strengthens team bonds. The physical effort is moderate to high: it requires a very early start and a walk of around half an hour on a stony path, in the dark and at high altitude.

Planning Notes

• As the summit road can be closed by snow in winter, the programme generally runs between May and October.
• Even in summer, sunrise on the summit is cold and windy; a jacket, a hat and a torch are essential.
• Flights, meals and entry to Nemrut, Arsameia, Perre and the museum are not included in the package.
• For participants with walking difficulties, an alternative pace is agreed with the guide before the summit section.