Day 8. Mardin
Overnight – Mardius Tarihi Konak
Your exploration of ancient Mesopotamia starts with an Old Town Walking Tour. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets of Mardin’s old town, marveling at the exquisite limestone architecture, ornate mosques, and ancient churches. Wander through the bustling bazaars of Mardin’s old town, where merchants sell an array of goods including spices, textiles, handicrafts, and traditional sweets.
Make your way to the iconic Zinciriye Medrese, a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture dating back to the 14th century. Admire the madrasa’s majestic facade and step inside to explore its central courtyard, prayer halls, and unique spiral staircase leading to panoramic views of the city.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Great Mosque of Mardin, also known as Ulu Mosque. This iconic mosque is a masterpiece of Artuqid design, dating back over eight centuries. Upon entering, you are greeted by the mosque’s spacious prayer hall, bathed in soft light filtering through stained glass windows and ornate chandeliers. The hall is adorned with exquisite marble columns, intricately carved wooden screens, and colorful tile work, creating an atmosphere of serenity and awe. The focal point of the Great Mosque is its mihrab, or prayer niche, which is elaborately decorated with intricate tile work and calligraphy, symbolizing the direction of prayer towards Mecca. The mihrab serves as a visual focal point within the prayer hall, guiding worshippers in their devotion and contemplation. One of the most striking features of the Great Mosque is its towering minaret, which offers panoramic views of Mardin and the surrounding countryside.
You will break for lunch at a time of your choice. During your walk, your guide will offer options to visit artisan workshops where local craftsmen practice traditional crafts such as hand-woven carpets, pottery, and copperware.
We strongly recommend a visit to Mardin Museum, which is housed within a meticulously restored 19th-century mansion, the Mardin Museum itself is a work of art, blending Ottoman architectural elements with local craftsmanship. The museum’s collection spans millennia, offering a journey through the diverse civilizations that have called this region home. From the ancient Mesopotamians to the Assyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and beyond, each exhibit tells a story of innovation, creativity, and resilience.
One of the highlights of the Mardin Museum is its archaeological finds, which include artifacts unearthed from nearby ancient sites such as Dara and Mardin Castle. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of ethnographic exhibits, showcasing the vibrant traditions and customs of Mardin’s diverse communities. From colorful costumes and traditional handicrafts to musical instruments and ceremonial objects, these displays celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region.
In the late afternoon you will proceed top Mardin High for an amazing sunset. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, with streaks of gold, crimson, and violet painting the horizon in a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry. The city’s limestone buildings take on a golden hue, their intricate facades illuminated by the last rays of sunlight. In the distance, the rolling plains of Mesopotamia stretch out towards the horizon, bathed in the soft glow of twilight. Silhouettes of distant hills and valleys are etched against the colorful sky, creating a scene of timeless beauty and serenity.
Make your way to the iconic Zinciriye Medrese, a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture dating back to the 14th century. Admire the madrasa’s majestic facade and step inside to explore its central courtyard, prayer halls, and unique spiral staircase leading to panoramic views of the city.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Great Mosque of Mardin, also known as Ulu Mosque. This iconic mosque is a masterpiece of Artuqid design, dating back over eight centuries. Upon entering, you are greeted by the mosque’s spacious prayer hall, bathed in soft light filtering through stained glass windows and ornate chandeliers. The hall is adorned with exquisite marble columns, intricately carved wooden screens, and colorful tile work, creating an atmosphere of serenity and awe. The focal point of the Great Mosque is its mihrab, or prayer niche, which is elaborately decorated with intricate tile work and calligraphy, symbolizing the direction of prayer towards Mecca. The mihrab serves as a visual focal point within the prayer hall, guiding worshippers in their devotion and contemplation. One of the most striking features of the Great Mosque is its towering minaret, which offers panoramic views of Mardin and the surrounding countryside.
You will break for lunch at a time of your choice. During your walk, your guide will offer options to visit artisan workshops where local craftsmen practice traditional crafts such as hand-woven carpets, pottery, and copperware.
We strongly recommend a visit to Mardin Museum, which is housed within a meticulously restored 19th-century mansion, the Mardin Museum itself is a work of art, blending Ottoman architectural elements with local craftsmanship. The museum’s collection spans millennia, offering a journey through the diverse civilizations that have called this region home. From the ancient Mesopotamians to the Assyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and beyond, each exhibit tells a story of innovation, creativity, and resilience.
One of the highlights of the Mardin Museum is its archaeological finds, which include artifacts unearthed from nearby ancient sites such as Dara and Mardin Castle. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of ethnographic exhibits, showcasing the vibrant traditions and customs of Mardin’s diverse communities. From colorful costumes and traditional handicrafts to musical instruments and ceremonial objects, these displays celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region.
In the late afternoon you will proceed top Mardin High for an amazing sunset. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, with streaks of gold, crimson, and violet painting the horizon in a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry. The city’s limestone buildings take on a golden hue, their intricate facades illuminated by the last rays of sunlight. In the distance, the rolling plains of Mesopotamia stretch out towards the horizon, bathed in the soft glow of twilight. Silhouettes of distant hills and valleys are etched against the colorful sky, creating a scene of timeless beauty and serenity.
Your exploration of ancient Mesopotamia starts with an Old Town Walking Tour. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets of Mardin’s old town, marveling at the exquisite limestone architecture, ornate mosques, and ancient churches. Wander through the bustling bazaars of Mardin’s old town, where merchants sell an array of goods including spices, textiles, handicrafts, and traditional sweets.
Make your way to the iconic Zinciriye Medrese, a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture dating back to the 14th century. Admire the madrasa’s majestic facade and step inside to explore its central courtyard, prayer halls, and unique spiral staircase leading to panoramic views of the city.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Great Mosque of Mardin, also known as Ulu Mosque. This iconic mosque is a masterpiece of Artuqid design, dating back over eight centuries. Upon entering, you are greeted by the mosque’s spacious prayer hall, bathed in soft light filtering through stained glass windows and ornate chandeliers. The hall is adorned with exquisite marble columns, intricately carved wooden screens, and colorful tile work, creating an atmosphere of serenity and awe. The focal point of the Great Mosque is its mihrab, or prayer niche, which is elaborately decorated with intricate tile work and calligraphy, symbolizing the direction of prayer towards Mecca. The mihrab serves as a visual focal point within the prayer hall, guiding worshippers in their devotion and contemplation. One of the most striking features of the Great Mosque is its towering minaret, which offers panoramic views of Mardin and the surrounding countryside.
You will break for lunch at a time of your choice. During your walk, your guide will offer options to visit artisan workshops where local craftsmen practice traditional crafts such as hand-woven carpets, pottery, and copperware.
We strongly recommend a visit to Mardin Museum, which is housed within a meticulously restored 19th-century mansion, the Mardin Museum itself is a work of art, blending Ottoman architectural elements with local craftsmanship. The museum’s collection spans millennia, offering a journey through the diverse civilizations that have called this region home. From the ancient Mesopotamians to the Assyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and beyond, each exhibit tells a story of innovation, creativity, and resilience.
One of the highlights of the Mardin Museum is its archaeological finds, which include artifacts unearthed from nearby ancient sites such as Dara and Mardin Castle. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of ethnographic exhibits, showcasing the vibrant traditions and customs of Mardin’s diverse communities. From colorful costumes and traditional handicrafts to musical instruments and ceremonial objects, these displays celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region.
In the late afternoon you will proceed top Mardin High for an amazing sunset. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, with streaks of gold, crimson, and violet painting the horizon in a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry. The city’s limestone buildings take on a golden hue, their intricate facades illuminated by the last rays of sunlight. In the distance, the rolling plains of Mesopotamia stretch out towards the horizon, bathed in the soft glow of twilight. Silhouettes of distant hills and valleys are etched against the colorful sky, creating a scene of timeless beauty and serenity.
Make your way to the iconic Zinciriye Medrese, a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture dating back to the 14th century. Admire the madrasa’s majestic facade and step inside to explore its central courtyard, prayer halls, and unique spiral staircase leading to panoramic views of the city.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Great Mosque of Mardin, also known as Ulu Mosque. This iconic mosque is a masterpiece of Artuqid design, dating back over eight centuries. Upon entering, you are greeted by the mosque’s spacious prayer hall, bathed in soft light filtering through stained glass windows and ornate chandeliers. The hall is adorned with exquisite marble columns, intricately carved wooden screens, and colorful tile work, creating an atmosphere of serenity and awe. The focal point of the Great Mosque is its mihrab, or prayer niche, which is elaborately decorated with intricate tile work and calligraphy, symbolizing the direction of prayer towards Mecca. The mihrab serves as a visual focal point within the prayer hall, guiding worshippers in their devotion and contemplation. One of the most striking features of the Great Mosque is its towering minaret, which offers panoramic views of Mardin and the surrounding countryside.
You will break for lunch at a time of your choice. During your walk, your guide will offer options to visit artisan workshops where local craftsmen practice traditional crafts such as hand-woven carpets, pottery, and copperware.
We strongly recommend a visit to Mardin Museum, which is housed within a meticulously restored 19th-century mansion, the Mardin Museum itself is a work of art, blending Ottoman architectural elements with local craftsmanship. The museum’s collection spans millennia, offering a journey through the diverse civilizations that have called this region home. From the ancient Mesopotamians to the Assyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and beyond, each exhibit tells a story of innovation, creativity, and resilience.
One of the highlights of the Mardin Museum is its archaeological finds, which include artifacts unearthed from nearby ancient sites such as Dara and Mardin Castle. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of ethnographic exhibits, showcasing the vibrant traditions and customs of Mardin’s diverse communities. From colorful costumes and traditional handicrafts to musical instruments and ceremonial objects, these displays celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region.
In the late afternoon you will proceed top Mardin High for an amazing sunset. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, with streaks of gold, crimson, and violet painting the horizon in a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry. The city’s limestone buildings take on a golden hue, their intricate facades illuminated by the last rays of sunlight. In the distance, the rolling plains of Mesopotamia stretch out towards the horizon, bathed in the soft glow of twilight. Silhouettes of distant hills and valleys are etched against the colorful sky, creating a scene of timeless beauty and serenity.