Mardin Old City: A Time-Travelling Experience
Mardin Old City is an ancient city in southeastern Turkey that has been inhabited for thousands of years. With its winding cobblestone streets, grand mosques, and centuries-old buildings, a visit to Mardin Old City is like a time-travelling experience. Here, visitors can explore the vibrant culture of the region, discover its fascinating history, and enjoy the unique sights and sounds of this ancient settlement.
A Brief Overview of Mardin Old City
Mardin Old City, also known as Deyar-i Mardin, is situated on a rocky hilltop overlooking the Mesopotamian plains. It has been continuously inhabited since the 10th century BC, making it one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. The city is home to a diverse population, including Kurds, Arabs, Syriacs, and ethnic Turks.
The Old City is known for its rich cultural heritage and spectacular architecture. The winding cobblestone streets are lined with colorful houses, ancient churches, and sprawling bazaars. The most striking structure in the city is the 13th-century Grand Mosque, located at the highest point of the hill.
Things to Do in Mardin Old City
One of the best ways to explore Mardin Old City is by taking a walking tour. Stroll down the narrow streets and admire the ancient buildings, many of which have been beautifully restored. The city is also home to several grand mosques, including the Ulu Cami, which is one of the oldest mosques in the Middle East.
For those looking to explore the city’s history, there are several museums to visit. The Mardin Museum is a great place to learn about the city’s history and culture. Other popular attractions include the Artuklu Palace, the 13th-century castle of Kasimiye, and the ancient city of Midyat.
Shopping in Mardin Old City
Mardin Old City is well-known for its bustling bazaars. Here, visitors can find a variety of traditional goods, including jewelry, carpets, pottery, and textiles. There are also several open-air markets where visitors can purchase local produce and handmade crafts.
Where to Eat in Mardin Old City
Mardin Old City is home to a wide variety of restaurants, cafés, and street-food stalls. For a truly unique experience, try the traditional Kurdish kebabs. Other local dishes include kunefe (a cheese-filled pastry), kadayif (a sweet pastry), and lahmacun (a thin, crispy flatbread).
Getting to Mardin Old City
Mardin Old City is easily accessible from most major cities in Turkey. The closest airport is Mardin Airport, which is located just outside the city. There are also regular bus services from Istanbul, Ankara, and Diyarbakir.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Mardin Old City is like taking a step back in time. With its winding streets, grand mosques, and colorful bazaars, it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the cultural and historical heritage of the region. So, if you’re looking to experience a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience, make sure to add Mardin Old City to your list of destinations.