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Midyat

Midyat, Mardin, Turkey

Step Back in Time in Midyat: Turkey's City of Sun and Stone Nestled amongst the dusty plains of southeastern Turkey, Midyat, in Mardin province, is a captivating city carved from history and bathed in golden sunlight. A …

#Historic town#Cultural heritage#Syriac architecture#Southeastern Turkey#Mardin Province

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Midyat.

Top Hotels in Midyat

Top Flights to Midyat

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Midyat.

Tours

Explore Midyat's Ancient Churches

Discover the historical churches of Midyat, rich in architecture and history.

Midyat Old Town Walking Tour

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Midyat's picturesque old town.

Shopping

Shopping in Midyat's Historic Bazaar

Stroll through the historic bazaar filled with traditional Turkish goods.

Location videos

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

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Midyat.

Currency

₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Midyat, Mardin, Turkey is 113,000.

Languages

Arabic, Kurdish, Turkish

Average weather

Midyat

Jan

7°0°

Feb

9°1°

Mar

14°4°

Apr

20°8°

May

26°12°

Jun

33°17°

Jul

38°21°

Aug

38°21°

Sep

33°16°

Oct

26°11°

Nov

16°6°

Dec

9°2°

Local guide

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

What people love

Midyat, located in the Mardin province of Turkey, is a beautiful and historically rich destination with several pros for travelers:

Historic Architecture: Midyat is known for its stunning architecture, especially its traditional stone houses and churches. The town's old streets are lined with intricately designed buildings that showcase a blend of Assyrian, Arabic, and Ottoman influences.
Cultural Diversity: Midyat is home to a diverse population, including Assyrians, Kurds, Arabs, and Turks. This cultural mix is reflected in the town's cuisine, traditions, and local customs, offering travelers a unique and enriching experience.
Historical Sites: Midyat boasts several historical sites, such as the Mor Gabriel Monastery, one of the oldest Syriac Orthodox monasteries in the world. Visitors can explore ancient churches, monasteries, and archaeological sites that offer insights into the region's rich history.
Craftsmanship: The town is renowned for its exquisite silverwork and craftsmanship. Travelers can visit local workshops and see artisans at work creating intricate jewelry, ornaments, and other handmade goods.
Scenic Landscapes: Midyat is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and relaxing in the peaceful countryside.
Local Cuisine: Visitors can savor authentic Assyrian and Turkish cuisine in Midyat's charming restaurants and cafes. The town is known for its delicious kebabs, mezes, and pastries, offering a culinary delight for food enthusiasts.

Overall, traveling to Midyat can provide a fascinating blend of history, culture, architecture, and natural beauty that appeals to a wide range of interests. It is a destination that offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Turkey.

What to know

Traveling to Midyat in Mardin, Turkey may have some cons to consider:

Security Concerns: Mardin province has experienced security issues in the past due to its proximity to the Syrian border. While the situation has improved in recent years, it's always advisable to stay informed about any potential risks before traveling to the region.
Language Barrier: Midyat is a predominantly Kurdish-speaking area, so communication might be challenging if you don't speak Kurdish or Turkish. English might not be widely spoken in this region.
Limited Transportation Options: Midyat is a small town, so public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. Renting a car or hiring a local guide may be necessary to explore the surrounding areas.
Conservative Culture: Midyat is a conservative town with strong traditional values. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress modestly to avoid any cultural misunderstandings.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Midyat is not a major tourist destination, so the availability of amenities such as hotels, restaurants, and tourist services may be limited compared to more popular tourist spots in Turkey.
Weather Conditions: Mardin province experiences hot summers and cold winters, so depending on the time of year you visit, you may need to prepare for extreme temperatures.

Please check the latest travel advisories and consult with locals or experienced travelers for updated information on traveling to Midyat, Mardin, Turkey.

Midyat is a town located in the Mardin Province of southeastern Turkey. It has a rich and diverse history, influenced by various civilizations and cultures over the centuries.

Ancient and Medieval History

Early Settlement: The region around Midyat has been inhabited since ancient times. It was part of the Assyrian Empire and later came under the control of the Hittites, Babylonians, and Persians.
Roman and Byzantine Era: During the Roman and Byzantine periods, Midyat was an important center for Christianity. It is situated in the historical region known as Tur Abdin, which means "Mountain of the Servants of God" in Syriac. This area has long been a center of Syriac Christianity, and many ancient churches and monasteries were built here.
Islamic Conquests: In the 7th century, the region came under Islamic rule following the Muslim conquests. Despite this, a significant Christian population remained and continued to practice their faith.

Ottoman Period

Ottoman Incorporation: Midyat was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century. During Ottoman rule, Midyat continued to be a multicultural town with a mix of Christians and Muslims. The town's architecture reflects this diverse heritage, with both churches and mosques present.
Syriac Culture: The town remained an important center for the Syriac Orthodox community, and many of the region's historic monasteries, such as Mor Gabriel Monastery, continued to be active throughout the Ottoman period.

20th Century to Present

Early 20th Century Turmoil: The early 20th century was a tumultuous time for Midyat and the surrounding region. The Assyrian Genocide during World War I affected the population, with many Christians being killed or displaced.
Republic of Turkey: After the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Midyat became part of the new Turkish state. The town continued to be home to both Muslim and Christian communities, although many Christians emigrated over the subsequent decades.
Cultural Heritage: Today, Midyat is known for its well-preserved old town, with stone houses and narrow streets that reflect its ancient past. The town is famous for its silver and gold craftsmanship, particularly the art of filigree.

Landmarks and Architecture

Mor Gabriel Monastery: Located near Midyat, this is one of the oldest surviving Syriac Orthodox monasteries in the world, dating back to 397 AD. It remains a significant religious center and a symbol of the region's Christian heritage.
Mor Augin Monastery: Another important Syriac Orthodox monastery located in the Tur Abdin region.
Midyat's Old Town: Known for its distinctive stone architecture, the old town area is a protected site and attracts visitors interested in its unique style and historical ambiance.
Churches: Several ancient churches, such as the Church of Virgin Mary and Church of Mor Sharbel, are located in and around Midyat, showcasing the town's Christian heritage.

Modern Midyat

Today, Midyat is a vibrant town that celebrates its multicultural past while facing modern challenges. It attracts tourists interested in its history, culture, and stunning architecture. The town is also a symbol of the coexistence of different religious and cultural communities over the centuries.