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Diyarbakır

Diyarbakir, Diyarbakir, Turkey

Journey to the Heart of Ancient Mesopotamia: Diyarbakır Awaits Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of Diyarbakır, a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural treasures. Encircle…

#historical sites#cultural heritage#Kurdish culture#fortress#Middle Eastern cuisine

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Diyarbakır.

Top Hotels in Diyarbakır

Top Flights to Diyarbakır

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Diyarbakır.

Tours

Explore Diyarbakır's Historical Walls

Diyarbakır's city walls are among the longest and best-preserved walls in the world, offering stunning views.

Visit Hasan Paşa Hanı

A beautiful caravansary offering a glimpse into the past with quaint shops and cafes.

Ulu Cami Visit

Visit Diyarbakır's Grand Mosque, one of the oldest and most significant in Turkey.

Shopping

Shopping at Mardinkapı Bazaar

Explore a vibrant local market with traditional goods and crafts.

Outdoor

Hevsel Gardens Trek

A UNESCO World Heritage site, these gardens offer a lush escape and a chance for a scenic hike.

Dicle River Rafting

Experience the thrill of rafting on the Dicle River, surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Diyarbakır.

Currency

₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Diyarbakır, Diyarbakır, Turkey is about 1.8 million.

Languages

Kurdish, Turkish, Zazaki, Arabic

Average weather

Diyarbakır

Jan

7°-1°

Feb

10°1°

Mar

15°4°

Apr

21°8°

May

27°13°

Jun

34°18°

Jul

39°22°

Aug

39°21°

Sep

34°16°

Oct

25°10°

Nov

15°5°

Dec

9°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Diyarbakır.

What people love

Diyarbakır, located in southeastern Turkey, offers a unique travel experience with its rich history, culture, and attractions. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Diyarbakır:

Historical Sites: Diyarbakır is known for its well-preserved city walls, which date back to Roman times and are one of the longest and best-preserved city walls in the world. The city is also home to numerous historical sites such as mosques, churches, and museums that showcase its diverse cultural heritage.
Culinary Delights: Diyarbakır is famous for its delicious cuisine, which features a variety of traditional dishes such as kebabs, lahmacun, and baklava. Visitors can explore the local markets and restaurants to sample authentic Kurdish and Turkish dishes.
Cultural Diversity: Diyarbakır is a melting pot of different cultures, with influences from Kurdish, Turkish, Armenian, and Assyrian traditions. Travelers can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture by visiting historical sites, attending cultural events, and interacting with the friendly locals.
Natural Beauty: The region surrounding Diyarbakır is characterized by stunning landscapes, including fertile plains, rugged mountains, and picturesque rivers. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, bird-watching, and exploring the Tigris River.
Hospitality: Visitors to Diyarbakır often comment on the warm hospitality of the local residents, who are known for their friendliness and generosity. Travelers can expect to be welcomed with open arms and treated to traditional Kurdish hospitality during their stay.

Overall, traveling to Diyarbakır offers a unique opportunity to explore a lesser-known region of Turkey with a rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Diyarbakır, Turkey, include:

Security concerns: Diyarbakır has experienced security issues in the past due to political unrest and occasional violence. It is important to stay informed about the current situation and exercise caution while traveling in the region.
Language barrier: Turkish is the official language in Diyarbakır, and English may not be widely spoken. This could pose challenges for communication and navigating the city for non-Turkish speakers.
Cultural differences: Diyarbakır has a rich Kurdish cultural heritage, which may be unfamiliar to some travelers. Understanding and respecting local customs and traditions is important to have a positive experience in the city.
Infrastructure: Diyarbakır may not have the same level of modern infrastructure and amenities found in larger cities in Turkey. Travelers should be prepared for potential challenges with transportation, accommodation, and other services.
Extreme weather: Diyarbakır experiences hot summers and cold winters, which may not be suitable for everyone. Travelers should be prepared for the weather conditions during their visit.

It is important to research and consider these factors before planning a trip to Diyarbakır to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Diyarbakır, located in southeastern Turkey, is a city rich in history and culture, known for its diverse heritage and significant historical sites. Here is a detailed history of Diyarbakır, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Ancient and Classical Periods

Early Settlement: The area around Diyarbakır has been inhabited since prehistoric times. It was part of the region known to the Assyrians as Amida.
Roman and Byzantine Eras: The city became an important Roman frontier post in the 3rd century AD, fortified with impressive walls that still stand today. It was later part of the Byzantine Empire.

Islamic Conquest and Middle Ages

Arab Conquest: In the 7th century, Amida was conquered by Arab armies and became part of the Islamic Caliphates. The city flourished as an important center under the Umayyads and Abbasids.
Artuqids and Ayyubids: In the 11th and 12th centuries, Diyarbakır was ruled by the Artuqid dynasty, followed by the Ayyubids, who were known for their patronage of architecture and science.

Ottoman Era

Ottoman Conquest: Diyarbakır was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the early 16th century under Sultan Selim I. It became the center of the Ottoman Eyalet (province) of Diyarbakır.
Cultural Hub: During Ottoman rule, the city was a vibrant cultural and economic hub, known for its diverse population, including Armenians, Kurds, Arabs, and Turks.

Modern Period

20th Century: The city underwent significant changes with the formation of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. During the 20th century, Diyarbakır experienced periods of conflict, particularly related to Kurdish identity and rights.

Historical Figures

Melikşah: An important Seljuk Sultan who had influence over the region.
Süleyman the Magnificent: During his reign, Diyarbakır further prospered as part of the Ottoman Empire.

Important Landmarks

Diyarbakır City Walls: These basalt walls are among the largest and best-preserved in the world, with origins dating back to the Roman period.
Great Mosque of Diyarbakır (Ulu Camii): Built in the 11th century, it is one of the oldest mosques in Turkey.
Hasan Pasha Han: A historical caravanserai from the Ottoman period, showcasing the city's role as a trade center.
Ziya Gökalp Museum: Dedicated to the prominent Turkish sociologist and writer born in Diyarbakır.

Diyarbakır's rich history is reflected in its diverse architecture, cultural heritage, and the enduring spirit of its people. The city remains an important cultural and historical center in Turkey.