Mardin City Guide
Mardin is one of Turkey’s most fascinating cities, located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region. With its ancient stone architecture, multicultural heritage, and panoramic views of the Mesopotamian plains, it is often called an “Open-Air Museum City.”
As of 2024, the population is around 870,000.
Mardin has hosted many civilizations, including the Sumerians, Assyrians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Artukids, and Ottomans.
It’s home to a unique blend of Muslim, Christian, and Syriac communities living together for centuries.
Economically, Mardin thrives on agriculture, tourism, and handicrafts such as silver filigree (telkari) and stonework.
The climate is semi-arid, with hot summers and mild winters.
Places to Visit in Mardin
Historical and Cultural Landmarks
- Old Mardin: Narrow streets and golden-stone houses overlooking Mesopotamia.
- Zinciriye Madrasa: Built in 1385, a masterpiece of Artukid architecture.
- Kasımiye Madrasa: Famous for its beautiful courtyard and stone craftsmanship.
- Deyrulzafaran Monastery: One of the oldest monasteries of the Syriac Orthodox Church.
- Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami): A symbol of Mardin’s skyline.
- Latifiye Mosque: Known for its exquisite Artukid stone carvings.
- Mardin Museum: Exhibits artifacts from prehistoric to Ottoman periods.
- Virgin Mary Church: Active Syriac Orthodox church with deep historical roots.
- Fortress of Mardin: Known as the “Eagle’s Nest,” offering panoramic city views.
Natural and Touristic Sites
- Midyat: Famous for its stone architecture, wines, and ancient streets.
- Savur: Known for its authentic stone houses and peaceful atmosphere.
- Dara Ancient City: An ancient Roman settlement and necropolis.
- Mazıdağı Plateaus: Great for hiking and local village visits.
- Mor Gabriel Monastery (Midyat): The world’s oldest surviving Syriac Orthodox monastery.
Mardin Intercity Bus Terminal
The Mardin Intercity Bus Terminal is 5 km from the city center. It connects Mardin to major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Gaziantep, Diyarbakır, and Şanlıurfa.
Facilities include cafes, rest areas, ticket offices, prayer rooms, and parking.
What to Eat in Mardin
- Stuffed Ribs (Kaburga Dolması): Rice and spiced lamb slow-cooked inside rib meat.
- Içli Köfte (İkbebet): Bulgur balls stuffed with meat and nuts.
- Onion Kebab: Minced meat grilled inside onions.
- Semsek: Savory pastries filled with cheese or meat.
- Alluciye: Meat stew with sour plum sauce.
- Kibe: Traditional spicy bulgur meatballs.
- Harire Dessert: Made from grape molasses and flour.
- Syriac Wine: Produced from Midyat’s vineyards.
- Kahiye: Crispy layered dessert with cream.
How to Get to Mardin
- By Bus: Frequent services from major Turkish cities.
- By Air:Mardin Airport (20 km) offers flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.
- By Road: Diyarbakır–Mardin 95 km (~1.5 h), Şanlıurfa–Mardin 190 km (~3 h).
- By Train: Nearest railway station is in Diyarbakır.
Bus Companies Operating in Mardin
- Kamil Koç
- Metro Turizm
- Mardin Seyahat
- Varan Turizm
- Has Turizm
- Özlem Cizre Nuh Turizm
- Seç Turizm
