The Sason District (Turkish: Sason ilçesi; Kurdish: Qulp; Armenian: Սասուն, romanized: Sasun) is an administrative district located in Batman Province, in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey. Its administrative center is the town of Sason.
Geography Sason District is situated in a mountainous region, characterized by rugged terrain that forms part of the Anti-Taurus mountain range. The district's topography contributes to its relative isolation and distinct historical development. It covers an area of approximately 1,387 km² (536 sq mi). The main town of Sason lies at an elevation of around 1,200 meters (3,900 ft) above sea level.
Demographics As of the 2022 census, the population of Sason District was 28,705. The district's population is a mix of ethnic groups, including Kurds and Turks. Historically, Sason was a significant center for Armenians.
History Sason has a rich and complex history, deeply intertwined with Armenian heritage.
- Ancient and Medieval Periods: The region historically corresponded to the Armenian principality of Sassoun (Sasun), which maintained a degree of autonomy for centuries, often resisting larger empires. It was part of Armenia Major at various times and later came under the influence of successive empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Seljuk, and Mongol rulers.
- Ottoman Era: During the Ottoman Empire, Sason was initially part of the Sanjak of Siirt. It was later constituted as a separate kaza (district) or sanjak within the Bitlis Vilayet in the late 19th century. The region was notable for its predominantly Armenian population, which lived in a relatively autonomous social structure in the mountainous terrain. Sason became infamous as the site of the Sason rebellions (1894) where Armenian villagers resisted Ottoman forces during the Hamidian Massacres.
- Armenian Genocide: During the Armenian Genocide of 1915, Sason was a focal point of resistance, with Armenians mounting a desperate self-defense against Ottoman troops. Despite heroic efforts, many Armenians from Sason were killed or forced to flee.
- Republic of Turkey: Following the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, Sason was initially part of Siirt Province. In 1990, when Batman was elevated to a province, Sason District was transferred from Siirt to the newly formed Batman Province, where it remains today.
Economy The economy of Sason District is primarily agrarian, with agriculture and animal husbandry being the main livelihoods. The mountainous terrain limits extensive farming, but local communities engage in subsistence farming and raising livestock. There is limited industrial activity within the district.