Mardin Historical Streets and Monasteries Route

Mardin Stone Houses

Mardin is called as “the necklace of the night, and the stroll of the day” with houses planned tightly and appearing to be crowding around on each other. The houses in the residential area which was announced as an Urban Historical Site in 1979 were built not even covering each others shades. Such perfect harmony is definitely to be admired. Traditional Mardin Houses (Geleneksel Mardin Evleri) use the yellow calcerous stone quarried extensively in the region, avoid using wood save for doors, window frames and mezzanines where it is necessary to use wood. The calcerous stone enables cool summers and warm winters in the interior of the houses. Vaulted and domed semi outdoor parts of the house protect the household from sunlight, and ensure a location to work, live and sleep during the hot season. Most of the people in Mardin use bed frames -namely “taht”, assmebled in their terraces to sleep. Abbara, passage ways in the streets and alleys are also of importance in Mardin’s Street planning.

Mardin Museum

The Mardin Museum, located in the old town square, is housed in a building constructed in 1895 as the Syriac Catholic Patriarchate, exemplifying traditional Mardin architecture. The museum features several thematic halls. The Hall of Archaeological Excavations displays artifacts from ancient sites around Mardin, including Boncuklu Tarla and Mardin Castle. The Hall of Faith traces the development of Mesopotamian mythology, paganism, Christianity, and Islam. The Hall of Trade explores Mesopotamian commerce, the invention of writing, and notable finds from multiple historical periods. Lastly, the Hall of Life presents Mesopotamian and Mardin social life, highlighting agriculture, pottery, food culture, and traditional music.

Grand Mosque

Uncover the spiritual beauty and architectural mastery of Diyarbakır's Grand Mosque in Türkiye. Known as the Fifth Holiest Sanctuary (Harem-i Şerif) in Islam, this stunning sanctuary, also known as Grand Mosque, is a captivating monument brimming with history, nestled in the heart of ancient Diyarbakır. The Grand Mosque stands as one of Türkiye's oldest and most significant mosques, an embodiment of artistry and tranquillity. Originally the Mar Toma Church, it was transformed into a mosque after the Muslim conquest of Diyarbakır in 639 CE. The mosque’s architectural layout is said to be inspired by the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, reflecting its influence in Anatolia. Throughout history, rulers from the Seljuks, Artuks, Akkoyunlus, and the Ottoman Empire have carried out significant renovations, with their inscriptions and decrees displayed in various sections of the mosque. This remarkable fusion of Roman, Eastern Roman, Seljuk, and Ottoman architectural elements creates a unique and awe-inspiring aesthetic. Inside, the courtyard is adorned with intricate mosaics, and the towering minaret dominates the skyline, symbolizing Diyarbakır's deep-rooted Islamic heritage. The interiors reveal a magnificent array of intricately crafted pillars and arched ceilings, showcasing the artistry of past artisans. A visit to Diyarbakır's Grand Mosque is more than a journey through history; it is an intimate encounter with ancient Türkiye’s stories. This iconic structure invites you to immerse yourself in the many worlds encapsulated within its walls. Discover, experience, and cherish the Grand Mosque, a true gem of Türkiye.

Zinciriye Madrasa

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Mamluk architecture at the breathtaking Zinciriye Madrasa set against the vast Anatolian plains of Aksaray, Türkiye. This unique piece of history stands elegantly, a testament to the remarkable architectural advancement of the Karamanid period. Built in 1336 as a center of religious studies, Zinciriye Madrasa is not just a historical monument but an experience to walk through the corridors of time. Take a journey that awakens your senses with a refreshingly unique mix of architectural grandeur and historic narratives. Let the elegant stone carvings and distinctive domes of Zinciriye Madrasa speak to you of a time long past, yet beautifully preserved in exquisite detail. As you navigate through its tranquil courtyard, soak in the intricate calligraphy and ornate decoration that adorn the walls, a true reflection of Seljuk and Islamic influence. Your journey to Aksaray, Türkiye, is more than just a trip. It’s an exploration of Türkiye’s cultural legacy, framed within one of its most vibrant, evolving social landscapes. The Zinciriye Madrasa is truly an asset to Türkiye’s tourism, a tale painted in stone. Experience a blend of classic architectural beauty with stunning landscapes as the soul of this fascinating region of Türkiye unfolds around you. Our call is to travelers, history enthusiasts, and culture explorers from across the world: step into the pages of history as the timeless allure of Zinciriye Madrasa awaits your discovery in Aksaray, Türkiye.

Mor Behnam (Kırklar) Church

Step into a remarkable journey through time as you explore the ancient Mor Behnam (Kırklar) Church, a magnificent testament to Mardin's rich history, nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Türkiye. This architectural wonder, renowned for its intricate stone carving and sacred Christian artistry, dates back to the 6th century. The church is dedicated to Mor Behnam and his sister, Sarah, who were both martyred for their faith. Inside, the hallowed walls sparkle with masterfully composed frescoes, each one a vivid narration of devotion and perseverance, painterly wonders that will leave you captivated. The church, also known as Kırklar Church, holds an air of mystique with stories laden with miracles and legends, such as the tale of the Forty Martyrs to which the second name refers. Spend a quiet moment in the serene garden that stretches out in front of the church, and let the hush of the old olive trees imbue an atmosphere of peace. An exploration of Mor Behnam (Kırklar) Church reveals not just a religious site, but a living gallery of ancient art, culture, and history waiting to unfold before your eyes. It adds vibrancy to the already awe-inspiring Mardin city, acclaimed for its uniqueness in heritage and attractions. A visit to Türkiye is incomplete without feeling the palpable spiritual energy and admiring the striking beauty of this enduring monument. Let Mor Behnam Church be a reminder of Türkiye's resilience, as it stands tall bearing witness to centuries of human civilization.

Kasımiye Madrasa

There is no original inscription left from the Kasımiye Madrasa (Kasımiye Medresesi) yet it is known that the construction started during the Artuqid Period and carried on during 1487 – 1502 by Sultan Kasım of the Akkoyounlular Period. Known as the largest of the structures in Mardin, this duplex structured and open courtyard planned madrasa with brick stone and terra cotta used together embraces the endless Mesopotomia Valley. Surviving to date, the madrasa was used multifunctionally at its day. There are symbols of astronomy and medical sciences on the walls. The madrasa’s porticoed courtyard also has a large pool. Water flowing in a few metres away from the pool goes through a gutter and reaches the pool. This pool was designed with a philosophical approach to architecture to reflect human life from birth to death. The spring stands for birth followed the first steps, and then drifts, followed by a long and narrow period of youth; then the pool symbolizing age and weariness followed by the still waters symbolizing death and finally the large drifting pool symbolizing the Day of Judgment… It is known that at some stage, the pool was used for teaching astronomy using the reflection of the stars on the still water. The doors to the classrooms were only a little above a meter so that the students would bow before they entered in and stood before the tutors in respect. There is a 600 year old legend which came to our day, narrating that Kasım Sultan was decapitated by Tamerlane in this madrasa. Kasım’s sister swept her scarf with which she cleant the blood on the ground and the blood splashed all over the walls of the vaulted room. It is believed that there still are blood drops on the walls of this vaulted room.

Deyrulzafaran Monastery

Unearth the secrets of the millennia for an enchanting sojourn at the Deyrulzafaran Monastery in Mardin, Türkiye. Tucked atop a hill with breathtaking views of the Mesopotamian plains, this erstwhile spiritual abode opens up a world where you can relive the glory of the Syriac Orthodox Church from the 5th century. Craving a divine connection with history in every nook and corner, Deyrulzafaran, or the Saffron Monastery, offers stories of mystics, monks, and miracles as you walk down its sun-drenched corridors. The silent walls of this austere fortress echo the elaborate rituals of centuries, blending harmoniously with the aromatic essence of saffron wafting through this sacred space. Its unique architecture captures hearts with the vivid depictions of holy saints against the backdrop of the mesmerizing sunsets of Mardin. Discover the charm of an ancient faith eternally alive in the spiritual solitude of the Deyrulzafaran Monastery. Explore the tombs of patriarchs, the fascinating annexed spaces, including the Virgin Mary Church, exuding an aura of sacred mysteries wrapped in silence. Venture into the depths of the cellars and touch the pages of rare manuscripts kept securely therein, whispering fascinating tales from the annals of time. So, plan a sojourn to Türkiye now and immerse yourself in a unique confluence of history, spirituality, and architecture at the Deyrulzafaran Monastery! Satisfy your wanderlust and explore Türkiye, the land of unsurpassable heritage and magnetic allure.