Places to Visit in Mardin

Mardin, TurkeyA city located in the southeast of , which has hosted many civilizations throughout history. With its stone houses, narrow streets and mystical atmosphere, Mardin is a destination that travelers enjoy exploring. In this article, you can find detailed information about historical places, parks, museums and churches to visit in Mardin.

Mardin Castle

Mardin Castle is located at the highest point of the city and offers a magnificent view from here. Also known as the “Eagle’s Nest”, the castle has been a strategically important defense point for Mardin throughout history. Bearing the traces of many civilizations from the Sumerians to the Ottomans, the castle is an ideal place to visit for history and nature lovers.

Zinciriye Madrasa

Zinciriye Madrasah, built by the Artuqid Sultan Melik Necmeddin İsa in the 14th century, is one of the most important historical structures in Mardin. Drawing attention with its magnificent stonework and architecture, the madrasah was used for both educational and religious activities in the past. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the terrace of the madrasah.

Grand Mosque

Located in the heart of Mardin, the Grand Mosque was built in the 12th century during the Artuqid period. Known for its stonework and gigantic minaret, the mosque is one of the oldest and largest mosques in Mardin. The mosque is one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture and is a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Deyrulzafaran Monastery

Located 5 km from Mardin, Deyrulzafaran Monastery is a 5th-century Syriac Orthodox monastery. Also known as the “Saffron Monastery,” this historic structure has served as a religious center for centuries. The monastery’s stone structure, mosaics, and religious icons fascinate visitors.

Dara Ancient City

Located 30 km southeast of Mardin, the ancient city of Dara is known as one of the most important settlements in Mesopotamia. Rome This ancient city, famous for its ruins, water cisterns and rock tombs from the ancient period, is an indispensable stop for history and archaeology enthusiasts.

Mardin Museum

Mardin Museum is a museum located in the city center and attracts attention with its rich collections. The museum contains works especially from the Mesopotamian, Roman and Byzantine periods. The works exhibited in a wide range from prehistoric times to the Ottoman Empire offer visitors the opportunity to discover the rich past of Mardin.

Kasımiye Madrasa

Built in the 15th century, Kasımiye Madrasah is one of the finest examples of Artuqid architecture. The Madrasah is one of the largest structures in Mardin and is famous for its courtyard and fountain. With its historical atmosphere and impressive stonework, Kasımiye Madrasah is another important stop that attracts visitors.

Mor Gabriel Monastery

Located in the Midyat district, approximately 23 km from Mardin, the Mor Gabriel Monastery is one of the oldest Syriac Orthodox monasteries in the world. Built in 397, this monastery stands out with its impressive stonework and religious atmosphere. It is a must-see for visitors who want to learn more about Syriac culture and history.

Sabanci Mardin City Museum

Sabancı Mardin City Museum, located in an old mansion, showcases the social and cultural history of Mardin. The museum hosts many interesting exhibitions, including ethnographic artifacts, handicrafts, and local costumes. The museum is a must-visit for those who want to understand Mardin's cultural heritage.

Streets and Historical Stone Houses of Mardin

The narrow and winding streets of Mardin offer travelers an open-air museum. The city's unique architecture with its historical stone houses, door knockers and windows is a treasure waiting to be discovered by walking enthusiasts. Walking through the old streets of Mardin is a great way to feel the city's historical texture up close.

Dara Ruins

Dara Ruins belong to the ancient city of Dara, one of the most important ancient cities of Mesopotamia, located near Mardin. This ancient city, which attracts attention with its water cisterns, rock tombs and city walls, stands out with its historical and archaeological value.

Mor Behnam (Forty) Church

Located in the center of Mardin, the Mor Behnam Church is a Syriac Orthodox church built in the 5th century. Also known as the Church of the Forty, this structure is a place to visit where you can gain in-depth knowledge of Syriac culture and religious beliefs.

Midyat Old City

Midyat is a district that is located right next to Mardin and has preserved its historical texture. Famous for its old stone mansions, narrow streets and historical churches, Midyat is almost an open-air museum. Located in Midyat and serving as a set for many TV series, Midyat Guesthouse is a point of great interest for visitors. In addition, many churches and monasteries in the district are worth visiting.

Mor Jacob Monastery

Located in the Nusaybin district, the Mor Yakup Monastery was built in the 4th century and is one of the important centers of worship of the Syriac Orthodox Church. The monastery is particularly notable for its mosaics and stonework. The structure, which has undergone many restorations throughout history, is now open to visitors and is a place worth seeing for history lovers.

Latifiye Mosque

Built in the late 13th century during the Artuqid period, Latifiye Mosque is located in the center of Mardin. The mosque is especially known for its elegant stonework and wood carvings. One of the oldest mosques in Mardin, Latifiye Mosque awaits its visitors as an important example of Islamic architecture.

Martyrs Madrasa

Şehidiye Madrasah is an important religious and educational structure located in the center of Mardin and built in the 13th century. The madrasah, which draws attention with its stone architecture and columned courtyard, has educated many students throughout history. Şehidiye Madrasah is an important stop for visitors who want to witness the religious and cultural past of Mardin.

Mount Forty

One of the natural beauties of Mardin, Mount Forty is very close to the city center and is a popular excursion area for both locals and tourists. From the top of the mountain, it is possible to watch the magnificent view of Mardin's historical buildings and the Mesopotamian Plain. Mount Forty is also an ideal place for nature walks and photography.

Mardin Culture and Art House

Mardin Culture and Art House is a center established to protect and promote the city's cultural heritage. Various exhibitions, concerts and cultural events are held here. It is a great stop for visitors who want to see the works of local artists, examine local handicrafts and get to know the cultural texture of Mardin.

Mor Dimet Church

Mor Dimet Church is another important Syriac Orthodox church located in the Savur district of Mardin. Built in the 4th century, this church draws attention with its historical structure and unique examples of Syriac architecture. The church is one of the important structures of Mardin, both religiously and culturally, and offers a mystical atmosphere to its visitors.

Savur Houses

Savur district of Mardin is another beautiful area that draws attention with its historical stone houses and narrow streets. Savur Houses stand out with their stonework and architecture specific to the region. You can get lost among the stone houses and breathe in the historical atmosphere of the city by walking around Savur. Savur is also a preferred location for many TV series and movies.

Whitewater

Located in the east of Mardin, Beyazsu is a popular recreation area for locals and tourists, especially in the summer months. This area, with its natural water sources, is an ideal place for picnics, nature walks and relaxation with its lush green nature and cool waters. Beyazsu is a must-see spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Valley of the Gurs

Gurs Valley, located in the Dargeçit district of Mardin, is another region waiting to be discovered with its magnificent nature and historical ruins. While walking in the valley, it is possible to see many interesting structures such as old caves, rock tombs and historical water channels. Gurs Valley offers a unique discovery point for both nature and history enthusiasts.

Silk Road

Mardin, a part of the historical Silk Road, carries the effects of this trade route to the present day. Old trade inns, caravanserais and bazaars are ideal stops for visitors who want to discover the vibrant history of the Silk Road. By walking in Mardin, you can follow the traces of this ancient trade route and take a journey through history.

Sakıp Sabancı Mardin City Museum and Dilek Sabancı Art Gallery

This museum and art gallery presents the cultural and artistic heritage of Mardin from a modern perspective. Located in a historical mansion, the museum hosts many interesting exhibitions on the history and culture of Mardin. In addition, modern art works are exhibited in the gallery and various art events are organized.

Dara Cemetery and Catacombs

Dara Cemetery, a part of the ancient city of Dara, is famous for its tombs carved into the rock. With its underground tombs, burial chambers and rock-carved sarcophagi, Dara Cemetery stands out as an important archaeological site that sheds light on the ancient period. While visiting this fascinating area, you can embark on a journey from prehistoric times to the present day.

Sheikh Jabuk Mosque

Şeyh Çabuk Mosque is located in the Artuklu district of Mardin and was built in the 14th century. The mosque stands out with its elegant stonework, especially from the Ottoman period. The cemetery and tomb in its courtyard complete the historical texture of the mosque. The mosque is an important stop to visit to understand the religious and cultural richness of Mardin.

Zafar Khan

Zafaran Han, located in the old bazaar of Mardin, is an important stop on the historical Silk Road. In the past, the Han was used as a place where merchants stayed and rested. Today, it has been restored and houses cafes and handicraft shops. It is an ideal place to breathe in the historical atmosphere and do some shopping.

Gurs Valley Caves

The caves located in the Gurs Valley offer a fascinating discovery area for nature and history lovers with their natural beauty and historical ruins. These caves were used as ancient settlements and places of worship. They are a great travel destination especially for photographers and adventure lovers.

Mor Aho Monastery

Located in the Turabdin region of Midyat, the Mor Aho Monastery was built in the 6th century. This monastery, belonging to the Syriac Orthodox Church, attracts attention with its magnificent stonework and rich history. The garden of the monastery and the frescoes inside offer visitors a historical and religious experience.

Kabala Caravanserai

Kabala Caravanserai is located in Kabala village of Dargeçit district of Mardin. This caravanserai from Seljuk period is one of the accommodation places on the historical Silk Road. The caravanserai, which draws attention with its stonework and architecture, has been restored and opened to touristic visits. Visitors can feel the historical atmosphere and follow the traces of old trade routes here.

Mor Malke Monastery

Located in the Yeşilli district of Mardin, the Mor Malke Monastery is another important Syriac Orthodox monastery built in the 5th century. The monastery takes its name from the Syriac saint Mor Malke and is a great place to visit for those who want to learn about Syriac culture and history. It offers a mystical atmosphere with its olive trees and stone structures in its garden.

Midyat Silversmiths Bazaar

Midyat's famous Silversmiths Bazaar is known as the center of Syriac filigree art. Filigree is a traditional jewelry art made with fine workmanship of silver wires. In this bazaar, you can find many handmade products from filigree jewelry to ornaments and meet local artists. A must-visit place for those interested in silver jewelry and handicrafts.

Deyrulumar Monastery

Located in the Tur Abdin region, the Deyrulumar Monastery was built in the 4th century. The monastery served as one of the religious centers of Syriac Christians. Built on a high hill, the structure offers its visitors both a religious and historical experience. In addition, the old stone structures and historical ruins around the monastery are also worth exploring.

Mardin Bazaars

Mardin is famous for its various historical bazaars. Many traditional bazaars, such as the Bakırcılar Bazaar, Şehidiye Bazaar and Tellallar Bazaar, are great stops for visitors looking to shop for local handicrafts, spices, textiles and souvenirs. While wandering through these bazaars, you can feel the authentic atmosphere of Mardin and chat with local tradesmen.

Mor Hananyo (Deyrulzafaran) Cemetery

This historical cemetery, located right next to the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, contains the graves of many Assyrian clergymen. The religious atmosphere of the monastery and the peaceful environment of the cemetery offer visitors a spiritual experience. The cemetery is an interesting place to visit, especially for religious history and cultural researchers.

Karasu River and Aqueduct

The Karasu River flows through the Dargeçit district of Mardin and draws attention with its surrounding natural beauty. The historical aqueducts along the river reveal the region's past water management systems and engineering skills. You can enjoy this natural wonder by walking along the river or planning a picnic.

Sultan Sheikhmus Tomb

Sultan Sheikhmus Tomb is located in Savur district of Mardin and is one of the spiritual centers of Anatolia. The tomb is a popular spot especially for religious tourism and many visitors visit here for prayer and worship. The mystical atmosphere and spiritual value of the tomb gives peace to its visitors.

Dara Water Cisterns

Another striking feature of the ancient city of Dara is its water cisterns. These cisterns, built underground, were used to meet water needs in ancient times. These structures, impressive with their architecture and size, reveal the historical water management systems of Mardin. By visiting the cisterns, you can learn about the water storage techniques of the ancient city.

Isozoel Church

İzozoel Church is located in Anıtlı village of Midyat district of Mardin. Built in the 6th century, this church is one of the important centers of worship of the Syriac Christian community. The church offers its visitors a unique religious and historical experience with its impressive frescoes and stone carvings.

Shepherd's Castle

Shepherd's Castle is a defensive structure built in the Middle Ages in the Savur district of Mardin. The castle has been used in many wars throughout history due to its strategic location. Today, the castle offers a magnificent view of the Mesopotamian Plain. It is a place worth exploring for those who want to explore historical ruins and hike.

Mardin is like a treasure waiting to be discovered with its historical and natural beauties. Every street, every building and every corner in the city bears the traces of a rich history and culture. With this extended article, we have discovered more destinations to visit in Mardin. Each point offers its visitors a different experience and story. By adding these places to your route while planning your trip, you can get lost in the charming atmosphere of Mardin and collect unforgettable memories.

A journey full of surprises waiting for you at every corner in Mardin offers a great discovery opportunity for both history and culture lovers!