9.02.2024
6 Dakika
The mesmerizing Mesopotamian city of Mardin stands out as one of the top must-see destinations in Türkiye. With its distinctive architecture and multicultural atmosphere preserved over centuries, Mardin possesses the ability to immerse you in its unique world even if you visit it without a set travel plan. Therefore, it is advisable to allocate ample time to see the whole of Mardin. Nonetheless, we have compiled the most prominent sightseeing spots in Mardin to offer you a glimpse into the city’s rich historical and cultural tapestry.
Established in the 6th century as a garrison city to protect the eastern border of the Byzantine Empire, Dara ranks among the most crucial ancient settlements in Upper Mesopotamia. A visit to this ancient city allows you to explore the ruins of a church, castle, agora, dungeon, artillery, cisterns, and Late Roman period cave dwellings.
Housed in a historical building erected in 1895 as the Assyrian Catholic Patriarchate, the museum exhibits artifacts unearthed in ancient cities in and around Mardin. A visit to the Mardin Museum offers a glimpse into remnants shedding light on the historical evolution of civilization in Mesopotamia, a pivotal region in human history.
At the Coppersmith’s Bazaar, where coppersmithing, one of Mardin's many traditional handicrafts, thrives, you can immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of the artisans crafting copper. Explore and buy unique products crafted through centuries-old master-apprentice relationships. You might want to acquire a Shahmaran embroidered piece as a memento of your journey. You can find the legend of Shahmaran, a mythical figure woven into Mardin's handicrafts and daily life, in our article “Queen of Serpents Shahmaran and Mardin” on Turkish Museum pages.
Referred to as the "eagle's nest" by locals, the castle was constructed by the Hamdanids in the 10th century on natural rock with minimal additions. From the castle atop a hill overlooking Mardin, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city adorned with historical Mardin houses along the terraces at the hill’s base.
The historical Mardin houses, a result of unique architectural design and medieval urban planning, create an authentic cityscape, huddled together from the summit with the castle down to the plain. Wandering the streets between these predominantly yellow limestone houses may transport you to another time or world.
Beyazsu Stream, the source of drinking water for Mardin, captivates locals with its green landscape amidst the earth-toned city. During your visit to Mardin, you can take a pause on the banks of this stream surrounded by lush greenery and relish a delightful meal.
Located near Hatuniye Madrasa, a notable historical building in Mardin, the bath is believed to have been constructed in 1176 and remains in use today. You can experience a traditional bath in this building, built in a rectangular plan with classical stone architecture common to the region, featuring an intriguing dome.
Constructed in the 5th century on a complex that once housed a sun temple in antiquity, Deyrulzafaran Monastery served as a Roman fortress before taking its present form in the 18th century. An essential religious center for Assyrians, the monastery stands as the Syriac Orthodoxy’s Metropolitan hub in Mardin. You can witness the multicultural essence of the region in Deyrulzafaran Monastery, an impressive architectural structure.
Initiated during the Artuqid Beyliği period, the construction of Kasımiye Madrasa was left unfinished due to the Mongol invasion but completed in the late 15th century. One of the largest and best-preserved historical buildings in Mardin, the madrasa boasts distinctive architectural features, stonework, and ornaments. This magnificent historical building serves as a remarkable stop on the historical journey Mardin offers its visitors.
