Mardin Turkey is a city carved from golden stone. Its houses, mosques and churches are stacked up a steep hillside, as if they were built on top of one another. Below, the vast Mesopotamian plain stretches flat toward the horizon. In fact, the view from the old city is one of the most dramatic in the country. Meanwhile, the city blends Arab, Kurdish, Turkish and Syriac Christian cultures. So, here is how to plan your visit.
Quick Facts About Mardin Turkey
| Country | Turkey (Türkiye) |
| Region | Mardin Province, southeastern Anatolia |
| Known For | Honey-colored stone architecture, madrasas, Syriac monasteries and views over Mesopotamia |
| UNESCO Status | On UNESCO’s tentative list |
| History | Inhabited for millennia, with many landmarks from the Artuqid era of the 1100s to 1400s |
| Best Time to Visit | April to May and September to October |
| Getting There | Fly to Mardin airport, about 20 minutes from the old city |
Where Is Mardin Turkey?
Mardin lies in southeastern Turkey, not far from the border with Syria. Specifically, the old city sits on a rocky hill overlooking the northern edge of Mesopotamia. In addition, the modern city has spread out below it. As a result, most of the historic sights are within walking distance along the main street of the old town.
Why Visit Mardin Turkey?
First, the architecture is stunning. Local craftsmen built almost everything from soft limestone, which glows honey-gold in the sun. Moreover, carved doorways and window frames show remarkable skill. Consequently, UNESCO has placed Mardin on its tentative list for future World Heritage status.
Second, Mardin Turkey is a meeting point of cultures and faiths. For example, you can visit historic mosques and ancient Syriac Orthodox churches in a single afternoon. Finally, the food is delicious and distinct from the rest of Turkey. If you loved our guide to Jodhpur in India, you will enjoy this other golden city.
Things to Do in Mardin Turkey
Visit the Zinciriye Medrese
The Zinciriye Medrese, also known as the Sultan Isa Medrese, was completed in 1385. Its carved portal is a masterpiece, and its courtyards are peaceful. Above all, climb to the roof for wide views across the city and the plain.
See the Kasimiye Medrese and the Great Mosque
Similarly, the Kasimiye Medrese, just below the old city, has elegant arches and a quiet courtyard with a pool. Meanwhile, the Great Mosque, or Ulu Cami, stands out with its tall minaret, a landmark visible from much of the town.
Walk the Bazaar and Back Streets
The main street is lined with shops selling soap, spices, silver jewelry and almond sweets. Then, climb the narrow staircases into the back streets. Here, archways, tunnels and terraces reveal hidden courtyards and rooftop views.
Explore the Museums
The Mardin Museum is housed in a former Syriac Catholic patriarchate. It displays finds from the region, including Bronze Age and Roman artifacts. In addition, the Sakıp Sabancı Mardin City Museum covers daily life and crafts, while its gallery shows contemporary art.
Taste the Local Food
Mardin’s cuisine has strong Arab and Syriac influences. For instance, try içli köfte, bulgur shells filled with spiced meat, and kaburga dolması, stuffed lamb ribs. Also, look for local almond sweets and the area’s Syriac wines.
Day Trips From Mardin Turkey
Mor Hananyo Monastery
About five kilometers east of the city, Mor Hananyo Monastery has stood since the late 400s. For centuries, it was the seat of the Syriac Orthodox Patriarch. Today, a small community still lives there, and guided visits show its chapels and courtyards.
Midyat and Dara
Midyat, about an hour away, is another stone town with beautiful mansions and churches. In addition, the ruins of Dara, a Roman and Byzantine frontier city, lie south of Mardin. There, you can see huge cisterns, rock-cut tombs and parts of the old walls.
One Historical Fact About Mardin Turkey
Mardin has been inhabited for thousands of years, and it was ruled by many empires. In particular, the Artuqid dynasty made it their capital in the Middle Ages. Therefore, many of its finest buildings date from that time.
How to Get to Mardin Turkey
Mardin Airport has direct flights from Istanbul and Ankara. From there, the old city is about 20 minutes away by taxi or shuttle. Alternatively, buses connect Mardin with other cities in southeastern Turkey. Before you travel, check your government’s latest travel advice, since some advisories cover areas near the Syrian border.
Best Time to Visit Mardin Turkey
The best time to visit is in spring, from April to May, or in autumn, from September to October. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant. On the other hand, summers are extremely hot, often above 40°C on the plain. Meanwhile, winters are cool and sometimes snowy, although the city is quiet and atmospheric.
Is Mardin Turkey Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Mardin Turkey is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in the country, and it is still far from the main tourist trail. Ideally, stay at least two nights in a restored stone mansion. For another hilltop gem, read our guide to Civita di Bagnoregio in Italy.
Final Thoughts on Mardin Turkey
In short, Mardin is a golden city with a view across history. Climb to the rooftops, wander the back lanes and watch the sun set over Mesopotamia. By the end of your visit, you will understand why travelers call it one of Turkey’s hidden treasures.
Image Credits
Wikimedia Commons
- Radosław Botev: Mardin old city, CC BY 3.0 pl
- Mesutdemirrci: Mardin Zinciriye Medrese, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Doron: MardinSultanIsaDomes, CC BY-SA 3.0
- Izabela Miszczak: Mor Hananyo Monastery 3, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Mihrirojin: Dara ancient city, CC BY-SA 4.0
