Discover the Wonders of Sanliurfa
Sanliurfa is a city where every stone has a story. As you walk through its ancient streets, you are following the footsteps of prophets and civilizations that dates back to the dawn of time. Here are the top must-visit locations in Sanliurfa.
1. Göbeklitepe: The First Temple of the World
No visit to Sanliurfa is complete without seeing Göbeklitepe. This UNESCO World Heritage site changed everything we knew about human history. Dating back to 10,000 BC, these massive T-shaped limestone pillars are decorated with intricate animal carvings, representing the world’s oldest known religious structure.
2. Balıklıgöl (The Pool of Abraham)
Located in the heart of the city, Balıklıgöl is a place of profound spiritual beauty. Surrounded by the elegant Halil-ur Rahman Mosque and lush gardens, the pool is filled with sacred carp. Legend says that when Prophet Abraham was thrown into the fire, the flames turned into water and the burning logs into these fish.
3. The Ancient City of Harran
Famous for its unique beehive-shaped adobe houses, Harran is one of the oldest continuously inhabited spots on Earth. Explore the ruins of the first Islamic university and the grand mosque while soaking in the atmosphere of ancient Mesopotamia.
4. Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum
This is the largest museum complex in Turkey. It offers a spectacular journey through time, featuring a life-sized replica of Göbeklitepe’s “D Enclosure” and the “Urfa Man”—the oldest known statue of a human. It is essential to visit the museum to understand the full context of the region’s history.
5. Halfeti: The Sunken City
Take a short trip to the district of Halfeti, where you can take a boat tour on the Euphrates River. You will see the hauntingly beautiful sunken minaret of Savaşan Village and the historic Rumkale fortress perched on the cliffs. Halfeti is also the only place in the world where black roses grow naturally.
6. The Old Bazaar and Gümrük Hanı
For an authentic local experience, wander through the labyrinthine streets of the Old Bazaar. Shop for traditional copperware, colorful textiles, and local spices. Afterward, take a break at Gümrük Hanı, a historic caravanserai where you can sip Turkish coffee under the shade of ancient trees.
7. Ayn Zeliha Lake
Right next to Balıklıgöl, Ayn Zeliha Lake offers another peaceful retreat. According to legend, the lake was formed by the tears of Zeliha, the daughter of King Nimrod, who wept for Abraham. It’s a perfect spot for photography and a quiet walk.
