Diyarbakır
Destinations
Amida Mound (Virantepe)
One of the settlement areas of Diyarbakır dating back to the prehistoric period, Amida Mound is the oldest part of the city surrounded by walls. Excavations here have unearthed artifacts from the Roman, Byzantine, Artuqid and Ottoman periods. The mound reveals that Diyarbakır has been an important center of civilization throughout history.
Artuqid Palace
Located within the Diyarbakır Walls, the Artuqid Palace is an important structure built in the 12th century and reflecting the architectural genius of the period. The palace is especially famous for the mechanical systems and water clocks developed by mathematician and engineer Al-Jazari during his time here. Although most of the palace ruins are still buried, preparatory work for excavation and restoration is underway. Today, the ruins of the palace take visitors to the splendor of the past.
Diyarbakır Archaeology Museum
The Diyarbakır Archaeology Museum exhibits artifacts that shed light on the thousands of years of history of the region. The collection covers a wide period from the Neolithic period to the Ottoman Empire and includes cuneiform tablets, stone artifacts, mosaics and coins. The Diyarbakır Archaeological Museum is open every weekday between 09:00 and 17:00 and is a must-see for those who want to understand the cultural richness of Mesopotamia.
Malabadi Bridge, located in Silvan district of Diyarbakır, is an engineering marvel from the Artuqid period. Built in 1147, the bridge stands out as one of the widest stone arched bridges in the world. Malabadi Bridge has the widest arch among the stone bridges in Turkey and the Near East. The bridge is within the borders of Diyarbakır province. On each side of the arch, there are two rooms on the inside used as shelters by caravans and passengers, especially during the harsh days of winter. It is said that these rooms, which were also used by the bridge guards, were previously connected to the bottom of the road by corridors, and that the footsteps of the incoming caravans could be heard from further away through these corridors. Rising over the Tigris River, this historical structure is a unique example of both engineering and art with its architectural elegance and balanced design.
Diyarbakır Grand Mosque
Located in the historical Sur district of Diyarbakır, the Grand Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Anatolia and is considered the "Fifth Haram-i Şerif" in the Islamic world. Built in 639, the mosque bears architectural traces of different periods. With its stonework, large courtyard and detailed decorations, it has great historical and religious importance. In addition, the mosque houses a sundial made by the famous scholar Al-Jazari, who is considered the father of cybernetics.
Diyarbakır Walls
Diyarbakır Walls, which are on the UNESCO World Heritage List, are one of the longest and best-preserved defensive walls in the world. These 5.5-kilometer-long walls bear traces of different civilizations such as the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman. Sections such as the Lion Gate, Double Gate and Goat Tower on them make visitors feel the depths of history. Watching the view of Diyarbakır from the top of the walls offers a unique experience.
Surp Giragos Armenian Church
Located in the Sur district of Diyarbakır, Surp Giragos Church is one of the largest Armenian churches in the Middle East. Built in the 16th century, this historic structure draws attention with its impressive architecture and detailed stonework. Surp Giragos Church was also used as the headquarters of German officers in World War I. Restored in 2011, the church offers its visitors both a historical and cultural experience.
Four-Legged Minaret (Sheikh Mutahhar Mosque)
One of the iconic structures of Diyarbakır, the Four-Legged Minaret was built in 1500 during the Akkoyunlu period. The structure, which draws attention with its minaret sitting on four unique columns, is an important architectural example in the Islamic world. It is believed that making a wish under the minaret and walking around the columns brings good luck. It is a unique work in both religious and architectural terms.