· TR

Mardin

Mardin, Mardin, Turkey

Step Back in Time in Mardin, Turkey: Where History Meets Hospitality Perched on a dramatic hillside overlooking the Mesopotamian plains, Mardin is a city frozen in time. This ancient Turkish treasure, with its honey-colo…

#historical#cultural#architecture#Middle Eastern cuisine#southeastern Turkey

1/17

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Mardin.

Top Hotels in Mardin

Top Flights to Mardin

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Mardin.

Tours

Historical Sights of Mardin

Explore the ancient architecture and rich history of Mardin with visits to its famous historical sites.

Deyrulzafaran Monastery Visit

Visit the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, a historic Syriac Orthodox monastery that dates back centuries.

Zinciriye Medrese Tour

Discover Zinciriye Medrese, an impressive Islamic complex with a rich past, located in the heart of Mardin.

Visit to Dara Ruins

Explore the archaeological ruins of Dara, which was once a significant Roman settlement.

Midyat's Historical Journey

Take a trip to Midyat to explore the beautiful stone houses and rich cultural sites.

Tur Abdin Monastery Tour

Visit the ancient churches and monasteries of Tur Abdin, an area rich with Assyrian heritage.

Shopping

Mardin Old Bazaar Touring

Experience the vibrant market life in Mardin's Old Bazaar, filled with local crafts and goods.

Mardin Jewelry Shopping

Shop for unique, handcrafted jewelry from local artisans in Mardin's jewelry stores.

Outdoor

Savur's Cultural Trip

Explore the town of Savur, a short drive from Mardin, to see its beautiful landscapes and ancient buildings.

Explore the Ancient Silk Road

Traverse the historic Silk Road area within Mardin, exploring caravansaries and ancient trade routes.

Location videos

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

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Mardin.

Currency

₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Mardin, Mardin, Turkey, is around 870,000.

Languages

Arabic, Kurdish, Turkish

Average weather

Mardin

Jan

7°1°

Feb

9°2°

Mar

14°5°

Apr

20°9°

May

26°13°

Jun

33°18°

Jul

38°22°

Aug

38°22°

Sep

33°18°

Oct

25°12°

Nov

16°7°

Dec

9°3°

Local guide

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

What people love

Mardin, located in southeastern Turkey, is a city rich in history, culture, and architecture. Here are some pros of traveling to Mardin:

Historical Sites: Mardin is known for its well-preserved historical sites, including the Great Mosque of Mardin, Zinciriye Medrese, and the ancient city of Dara. These sites offer a glimpse into the region's past and showcase stunning architectural features.
Cultural Diversity: Mardin is a melting pot of different cultures and religions, including Arab, Kurdish, and Assyrian communities. This diversity is reflected in the city's food, music, and traditions, making it a fascinating place to explore.
Scenic Views: Mardin is situated on a hill overlooking the Mesopotamian plains, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The city's unique blend of old stone houses and modern buildings creates a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy.
Culinary Delights: Mardin is famous for its delicious cuisine, which combines Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. Be sure to try local specialties such as kabak tatlısı (pumpkin dessert) and kaburga dolması (stuffed lamb ribs) during your visit.
Hospitality: Visitors to Mardin often praise the warmth and hospitality of the local people. You are likely to receive a warm welcome and encounter friendly locals who are eager to share their culture and traditions with you.

Overall, traveling to Mardin offers a unique opportunity to explore a region with a rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking views. It is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

What to know

Traveling to Mardin, Turkey, may have some potential cons that visitors should be aware of:

Safety Concerns: Mardin is located near the Syrian border, and while the city itself is generally safe, travelers should stay informed about any potential security risks in the region.
Political Unrest: The region has experienced political tensions in the past, which could potentially impact travelers. It's important to stay updated on the current situation and follow any travel advisories issued by your government.
Language Barrier: While some people in Mardin may speak English, the primary language is Turkish and Kurdish. Travelers who do not speak these languages may face challenges communicating with locals.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Mardin is not as touristy as other destinations in Turkey, so the tourist infrastructure may be limited. This could mean fewer accommodation options, restaurants, and tourist services compared to more popular tourist destinations.
Hot Climate: Mardin has a hot and arid climate, especially in the summer months, which may not be ideal for everyone. Travelers should be prepared for high temperatures and sun exposure.
Conservative Culture: Mardin is known for its conservative culture, and travelers should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of cultural norms to avoid any misunderstandings or discomfort.

Please note that the situation in Mardin and travel advisories can change, so it's essential to check for the most up-to-date information before planning a trip to the region.

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

Ancient and Medieval History

Ancient Period: Mardin has a history that dates back to the ancient Mesopotamian civilizations. It was part of the Assyrian Empire and later came under the control of the Persians, Romans, and Byzantines.
Arab Conquest: In the 7th century, Mardin was conquered by the Arab Umayyad Caliphate and later became part of the Abbasid Caliphate. During this period, it became an important center for trade and learning.
Artuqid Dynasty: In the 11th century, the Artuqid Turks took control of Mardin. The Artuqids were known for their patronage of architecture and arts, and they built many of the city's historic structures.
Ayyubid and Mongol Periods: Mardin later came under the rule of the Ayyubids in the 12th century. The city was briefly occupied by the Mongols in the 13th century but remained largely intact.

Ottoman Period

Ottoman Empire: Mardin was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the early 16th century. Under Ottoman rule, the city continued to thrive as a cultural and commercial hub, with a population composed of Muslims, Christians, and Jews.

20th Century to Present

Republic of Turkey: Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Mardin became part of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. The city has since been part of Turkey's efforts to integrate its diverse cultural heritage into the modern nation-state.

Significant Events

Armenian and Assyrian Genocides: During World War I, Mardin was affected by the Armenian and Assyrian genocides, which led to the decimation of its Christian populations.

Historical Figures

Jazira ibn Umar: An influential Artuqid ruler known for his contributions to the architectural heritage of Mardin.

Important Landmarks

Zinciriye Medrese: A beautiful Islamic theological school built in the 14th century by the Artuqids, known for its intricate stone carvings and architecture.
Great Mosque of Mardin (Ulu Cami): This mosque, dating back to the 12th century, features a prominent minaret and is a fine example of Artuqid architecture.
Mardin Castle: Also known as Eagle's Nest, this ancient fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding plains.
Deyrulzafaran Monastery: Located near Mardin, this Syrian Orthodox monastery dates back to the 5th century and is an important spiritual center.
Sakıp Sabancı City Museum: This museum showcases the history and ethnography of Mardin, highlighting its multicultural heritage.

Mardin's unique blend of cultures, religions, and architectural styles makes it one of Turkey's most fascinating cities. Its historical significance and beautiful landscape continue to attract visitors and scholars alike.