Mesopotamia

about

Mesopotamia: The Cradle of Civilization

Mesopotamia, with its fertile lands, has drawn people from ancient times to today. It is where civilization’s journey began, where humankind abandoned nomadic life and embraced settlement. It’s the land where wheat was first cultivated, where the first villages, cities, and empires emerged, and where writing was invented.

Rewriting History at Göbekli Tepe

Göbekli Tepe has reshaped humanity’s understanding of history, revealing ancient secrets buried beneath the soil. Walk through Mardin’s lacy narrow streets, experience matchless sunrises at Nemrut—a wonder of the world—and explore Gaziantep, the city of mosaics. Modern museums, planted like pearl drops across cities, showcase unparalleled historical artifacts. In Mesopotamia, where countless archaeological treasures lie, every turn reveals a glimpse of history and culture.

The Fertile Land Between Majestic Rivers

For thousands of years, Mesopotamia has transformed seeds into abundant harvests. Its culinary heritage, rich and diverse, turns these natural gifts into unforgettable tastes. The region’s colorful tapestry reflects diverse stories told through lifestyle, folklore, and art.

A Land of Faith and Temples

Since when did humankind yearn to build temples? Mesopotamia holds the answer. It is home to mosques, tombs, churches, and temples representing countless beliefs. Göbekli Tepe, the oldest known temple, united people through shared faith even before they settled and began farming. Sacred places are scattered throughout Şanlıurfa, the city of prophets. Mardin, with its mystical domes, is a true mosaic of religions and cultures. To experience Mesopotamia is to feel the depth of faith and contemplation embedded in its holy sites.

Nature and Hospitality

The warmth of its people, its stunning physical geography, and a unique ecosystem with rare plants and animals make Mesopotamia a truly unparalleled destination. Every aspect adds something special to this land of wonders.

A Destination for Every Traveler’s "Bucket List"

Mesopotamia, the land of firsts and everything unique, is as ancient as time itself. Explore its legendary history, immerse yourself in its rich culture, marvel at its spectacular nature, and indulge in unforgettable culinary experiences. Mesopotamia is waiting for you.

see

Göbekli Tepe, the Zero Point of History

The discovery of Göbekli Tepe, the world’s oldest known monumental structure of faith, redefined what we know about prehistoric hunter-gatherers. Dating back to 9,600 BCE, Göbekli Tepe shows that early humans were far more advanced than previously thought. They were socially organized and capable of erecting massive T-shaped stone pillars weighing up to 15 tons, adorned with animal carvings of awe-inspiring craftsmanship. The site was included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List in 2018, offering visitors a chance to explore a 12,000-year-old history and feel the profound power of faith.

Halfeti

Founded in 855 BCE by Assyrian King Shalmanaser II, Halfeti sits along the Euphrates and is partially submerged due to the construction of the Birecik Dam. Halfeti is part of the “Cittaslow” movement, preserving its laid-back charm. Boat trips from Halfeti take visitors to Rumkale, a fortress atop a hill, and the semi-submerged village of Savaşan Köyü. Witness the mosque by the lake, explore the ruins below the water’s surface, and enjoy a surreal experience in this quiet village.

Mount Nemrut

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, Mount Nemrut is famous for its colossal statues atop its summit. Built by the Kingdom of Commagene as a tomb and cult center for King Antiochus I, the site features statues of monarchs, lions, eagles, and Greek and Persian deities. The heads of these statues lie scattered after being removed long ago. The mausoleum of Antiochus I and bas-reliefs depicting mythical themes enhance the mystical allure of this historical wonder.

Zeugma

Founded in 300 BCE by one of Alexander the Great’s generals, Zeugma means “bridge” in Greek and was a vital city during Roman and Byzantine periods. Though partially submerged due to a dam, Zeugma’s legacy lives on through the magnificent Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep. The museum features mosaics and artifacts from the submerged city, preserving its artistic and historical significance.

Hasankeyf in Batman

Hasankeyf, with a history dating back over 12,000 years, reached its peak under Artukid rule as a key Silk Road center. Notable landmarks include the 15th-century Zeynel Bey Mausoleum, the ancient bridge connecting the two sides of the city, and the palace ruins inside the citadel. Today, visitors can explore this ancient city, steeped in history and stories of vanished civilizations.

Birecik

Situated along the Euphrates River, Birecik is known for its ancient past and its role as a habitat for the rare northern bald ibis (Kelaynak). Visit the Bald Ibis Breeding Center or explore the ancient cemetery from the early Bronze Age, where over 300 tombs were excavated. Walk along the old castle walls and experience the charm of this historic town.

Midyat

Midyat’s stone-carved houses, bazaars, and religious sites create an otherworldly ambiance, reminiscent of the Arabian Nights. The Mor Abrahom Monastery is a must-see, although it may sometimes be closed to visitors. Wander through its historic streets and discover a blend of Muslim and Christian culture in this ancient Assyrian town.

The Voices of Coppersmiths Bazaar (Bakırcılar Çarşısı)

With its wood-covered shops and hammer sounds, the Coppersmiths Bazaar in Gaziantep offers a sensory experience like no other. The art of coppersmithing has been passed down for generations, and the rhythmic sounds of hammers hitting copper create a unique melody. Explore handcrafted copper items, including kitchenware, and immerse yourself in this traditional craft.

The Tomb of İsmail Fakirullah

This astronomical wonder dates back to 1734. On equinox days (March 21st and September 23rd), sunlight is perfectly aligned to illuminate the gravestone of İsmail Fakirullah through a carefully designed optical system involving a tower and a dry-stone wall. Witness this marvel of architecture and science in Tillo.

The Islamic Science History Museum

Located in Gaziantep, this museum showcases the Golden Age of Islam through artifacts from fields like medicine, chemistry, physics, and astronomy. It features 103 inventions from 54 scientists, including interactive exhibits that bring history to life.

Keçi Burcu (Goat Tower)

As the oldest and largest tower of the Diyarbakır City Walls, Keçi Burcu offers panoramic views of the city and the fertile Hevsel Gardens. Visit the historic Dicle Bridge and take in the natural beauty of the area.

The Grand Mosque of Diyarbakır

Built in the 11th century by Seljuk Sultan Malik Shah, this mosque is one of the oldest in Türkiye and a symbol of religious unity, where the four main sects of Islam pray together. Don’t miss the sundial designed by Al-Jazari, a polymath whose work inspired mechanical inventions worldwide.

Mausoleum of Noah (Hz. Nuh Türbesi) in Şırnak

Located inside a mosque, this mausoleum is believed to be Noah’s final resting place. Over the years, it has served as a synagogue, church, and mosque. Its historical significance makes it one of the oldest religious sites in the world.

Mesudiye Madrasa

Located next to the Grand Mosque of Diyarbakır, this 800-year-old madrasa is known for its rotating stone pillars, which detect structural damage from earthquakes. The architecture and design of this madrasa are remarkable feats of engineering and artistry.

Bozova (Euphrates) Waterfalls

Located near Şanlıurfa, the Bozova Waterfalls offer a perfect spot to admire the Euphrates River. Dip your feet in its sacred waters and capture stunning photographs of this natural wonder that has nurtured civilizations for millennia.

Northern Bald Ibises (Kelaynak)

Birecik is home to one of the last colonies of northern bald ibises, a critically endangered bird species. Visit the Bald Ibis Breeding Center and learn about conservation efforts while observing these majestic birds.

The Art of Filigree

This intricate craft, dating back to 3000 BCE, involves twisting fine threads of silver or gold into detailed designs. Mardin and Midyat are hubs of this ancient art, where you can watch artisans create stunning filigree jewelry.

Assyrian Culture

Experience an Assyrian church service in Mardin, where you can hear hymns and learn about the community’s culture and ancient religious practices. The city’s Assyrian heritage is deeply rooted in its traditions and architecture.

Olive Oil Production

Visit Kilis in mid-November and witness traditional olive oil production. Olives are ground by millstones, continuing a millennia-old tradition. Taste fresh, traditionally produced olive oil and learn about its cultural significance.

taste

The Birthplace of Agriculture: The Fertile Crescent and the Story of Wheat

The development of agriculture, often referred to as humanity’s first revolution, took place approximately 10,000 to 12,000 years ago in Mesopotamia. Wheat, a symbol of both agriculture and the transition to settled life, plays a crucial role in the region’s cuisine.

Unique Wheats of the Region

Durum wheat (Triticum durum), originally cultivated in the Karacadağ region between Şanlıurfa and Diyarbakır, eventually spread across the globe. Siyez wheat (Einkorn wheat), known as the ancestor of cultivated wheat, can still be found in its natural form in Karacadağ, where the region’s agricultural roots remain strong. Chickpeas, another ancient crop cultivated here, are widely consumed in local dishes. One example is the chickpea wrap in Şanlıurfa’s Birecik district, where oven-baked chickpeas are wrapped in thin flatbread with chili, black pepper, and salt.

Wood-Fired Cooking: Preserving a 12,000-Year Legacy

Wood-fired ovens are integral to the cuisine of Şanlıurfa, Gaziantep, Adıyaman, and Diyarbakır, reflecting the region’s ancient wheat culture. Bread, crackers, and flatbreads, known as nan since Sumerian times, accompany many traditional dishes cooked in these ovens.

Culinary Delights of the Fertile Crescent

The fertile lands of the region, enriched by centuries of cultural interactions, have given rise to a diverse and delicious cuisine. The list of regional delicacies is long, including Antep baklava, pistachios, Diyarbakır watermelon, and various traditional dishes like Mardin’s stuffed lamb ribs (kaburga dolması), and Siirt’s büryan kebab and perde pilavı.

Gaziantep stands out as one of Türkiye’s gastronomic capitals, with 391 registered traditional dishes like kebab, lahmacun, and baklava. The city’s culinary culture is showcased at the Emine Göğüş Culinary Museum, where visitors can attend cooking classes and learn about the region’s flavors.

Kebab: The Iconic Dish of the Fertile Crescent

Kebabs, a staple of the regional cuisine, are prepared by marinating and grilling meat over charcoal, often accompanied by vegetables or fruits. Local varieties include kemeli tike kebab, Yenidünya kebab, eggplant kebab, and the famous Alinazik.

Meat-Based Specialties

Lahmacun, a thin dough topped with spiced meat and baked in a stone oven, also originated in this region. Other local favorites include kelle paça, paşa köftesi, and Kilis tava.

Soups with Yogurt: A Regional Tradition

Soups play a key role in the cuisine, often made with yogurt, ayran, or bouillon. Popular options include leveniye, alaca soup, Ezogelin soup, and şiveydiz.

A Dessert Heaven

Desserts made with grapes, such as pekmezli cevizli sucuk (molasses and walnut rolls), are common in the region. The world-famous Antep baklava is a must-try, along with traditional sweets like şöbiyet, bülbül yuvası, and künefe.

Mırra: The Bitter Coffee of the Region

Mırra, a strong and bitter coffee served in small cups, is a regional specialty known for its elaborate preparation process and cultural significance in Şanlıurfa and Mardin.

The Gift of the Tigris and Euphrates

Fish from the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers add diversity to the local cuisine. The shabbat fish, commonly farmed at the Atatürk Dam, is particularly popular.

Refreshing Beverages: Licorice Sherbet

Licorice sherbet, a traditional summer drink with a slightly bitter taste, is believed to be beneficial for the kidneys and is best enjoyed cold.

Baklava-Making Experience

Witness the artistry of baklava-making at the Tarihi Millet Hanı in Gaziantep. The daily demonstration reveals the intricate process, from rolling out the dough to adding layers of pistachios and syrup.

Make Your Own Wrap

In Urfa’s Haşimiye Square, you can prepare your own liver or meat wraps, garnished with onions, parsley, and spices, for a truly hands-on culinary experience.

Distinct Regional Cuisines

• Adıyaman: Known for dishes like çiğ köfte, basalla (sour meatballs), and Adıyaman tava.
• Batman: Famous for stuffed meatballs, tripe dishes, and the local specialty, Sason honey.
• Kilis: Recognized for its olive oil dishes and traditional bread baked in mud ovens.
• Diyarbakır: A blend of cultural influences with specialties like kaburga dolması and liver kebab.
• Gaziantep: Türkiye’s culinary capital with renowned dishes like baklava, cartlak kebab, and simit kebab.
• Mardin: A unique cuisine combining meat, bulgur, and spices in dishes like keşkek, dobo, and sembusek.
• Siirt: Known for büryan kebab and perde pilavı, along with thyme soup made from wild herbs.
• Şanlıurfa: The birthplace of çiğ köfte, with a cuisine rich in spices and meat dishes like Urfa kebab.

Mesopotamia’s culinary culture offers a rich blend of history, taste, and tradition, reflecting the fertile lands and diverse communities that have thrived here for millennia. From baklava to kebabs, this region invites you to indulge in flavors as ancient as civilization itself.

smell

Mesopotamia: The Cradle of Civilization

Mesopotamia, often referred to as the cradle of civilization, is not just a history center filled with natural beauty but also a gastronomic treasure and a source of healing. This fertile land, enriched by its freshwater, clean air, fragrant plants, and delicious food, is a life-giving haven for all who experience it.

A Source of Healing

Mesopotamia is nature’s pharmacy, offering healing through its fragrant plants and herbs. The region’s diverse flora has been used for centuries in both traditional medicine and daily life, with many fruits and plants grown in its fertile soil providing essential nutrients for a healthy diet.

A Culinary Paradise

Mesopotamia’s reputation as a culinary center stems from the fertile soil that enhances its world-renowned cuisines. Cities across the region take pride in their gastronomic heritage, offering dishes enriched with fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and aromatic spices.

Desserts in Mesopotamia often include walnuts and peanuts, while tomatoes and peppers are key ingredients in the beloved regional tomato pastes used in numerous dishes. One of the most popular ingredients, thyme, enhances the flavor and aroma of the region’s signature kebabs, which are famous for their mouthwatering, hunger-inducing fragrance. The aroma of grilling kebabs from countless restaurants fills the air, inviting visitors to experience the culinary magic firsthand.

The Fragrance of Mesopotamia

Mesopotamia smells divine, thanks to its rich variety of flowers, healing herbs, and fresh produce. The fragrance of its natural flora creates an ambiance that soothes the soul.

Among the prominent plants that contribute to Mesopotamia’s enchanting scent are:

• Purple Basil
• Apple Blossom
• Fig Blossom
• Campanula
• Mulberry
• Pepper Plants
• Işkın Otu (Wild Rhubarb)
• Crown Imperial
• Fragrant Grapes
• Common Hawthorn
• Almond Blossom
• Walnut Trees
• Cornflower
• Malatya Hornwort
• Malatya Astragalus
• Bluebell
• Mountain Garlic
• St John’s Wort
• Pomegranate Blossom
• Mountain Pear
• Yemişen (Crataegus Fruit)
• Fleaworts
• Tomato
• Thyme
• Rose
• Sweet Basil
• Za’atar
• Orchid
• Laurus (Bay Laurel)

This natural diversity contributes not only to the region’s enchanting scent but also to the flavorful, nutrient-rich foods that define its cuisine.

Mesopotamia’s unique combination of history, cuisine, and nature creates a multisensory experience. With its healing herbs, rich culinary culture, and fragrant surroundings, Mesopotamia continues to be a land of abundance, where every scent and taste tells a story that dates back thousands of years.

touch

Euphrates River

The Euphrates River, together with the Tigris, played a pivotal role in the emergence of Mesopotamian civilizations, making it the lifeline of some of the world’s earliest urban societies. Cities like Sumer, Assyria, and Babylon flourished on its fertile banks before giving way to Persian dominance and later ruling dynasties.

Stretching 2,800 km, the Euphrates is the longest river in Western Asia and flows through Türkiye, Syria, and Iraq, while its basin extends into Saudi Arabia and Iran. For millennia, its water has fertilized the lands, making agriculture possible and giving birth to civilizations. Its flow peaks in April and May due to rain and the melting of snow from surrounding mountains. Along its winding banks, travelers can find remnants of ancient settlements that continue to echo Mesopotamia’s legacy.

Tigris River

The Tigris River, originating in Eastern Türkiye, merges with the Euphrates in Şattülarap before flowing into the Persian Gulf. Running through Türkiye, Iraq, and Syria, it has nourished civilizations and supported trade and agriculture since ancient times.

On Turkish soil, the river extends for 523 km, passing through cities like Diyarbakır, Batman, Mardin, and Şırnak. The Tigris, shorter than the Euphrates, carries more water and has been vital for transportation since ancient times, as seen from the numerous historical ruins along its banks. With its waters swelling in spring due to melting snow, the Tigris remains crucial to the region’s ecology and culture.

Halil ur-Rahman Lake (Balıklıgöl)

Located in Şanlıurfa, the Halil ur-Rahman Lake (Balıklıgöl) is a place of spiritual and cultural significance. This green oasis includes Halil-ur Rahman Lake, Ayn Zeliha Lake, and several historical mosques and madrasas. According to legend, the sacred fish in Balıklıgöl were once burning wood, transformed by God when Prophet Abraham was thrown into a fire by the pagan King Nimrod as punishment for preaching monotheism. The miraculous pool saved him, turning flames into water and logs into fish. The site remains sacred, with its fish revered and protected by locals.

The End of the World: Birkleyn Cave

During the Northern Mesopotamia Campaign, Assyrian King Tiglath-Pileser I reached the Birkleyn Cave (or Tigris Tunnel), situated 80 km north of Diyarbakır, and declared it the “End of the World.” This awe-inspiring site contains rock reliefs and cuneiform inscriptions carved into its walls, documenting the king’s conquests from 3,000 years ago. Visitors can explore this historical wonder and witness the remnants of ancient Assyrian power.

Traditional Handcrafts Center in Şanlıurfa

The Traditional Handcrafts Center in Şanlıurfa showcases the artistic traditions and craftsmanship of Mesopotamia. Here, natural resources meet human creativity to produce handcrafted items like wood carvings, silk weaving, felting, filigree, mosaics, carpet weaving, and kazazlık (silk spinning). Visitors can interact with local artisans, learn the stories behind their crafts, touch the products, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while immersed in the rich history of Mesopotamian art.

listen

The Story of Prophet Ayyub (Job)

Prophet Ayyub (Job) is revered for his patience and unwavering faith despite facing severe trials and illness. According to the story, when Ayyub was suffering deeply, he prayed: “My God! My body is surrounded with weakness and debility because of illness. I have no strength left for invocation and I am deprived of mercy. I sheltered to You. You are the most soft-hearted of those compassionate ones, my God!”

Moved by his faith and perseverance, God accepted his prayer and instructed him to stomp his heel on the ground. Miraculously, cold water gushed from the Earth. Following God’s command, Ayyub bathed in the healing waters and drank it, cleansing both his body and spirit. He was miraculously cured of his illness.

In Şanlıurfa (Urfa), you can visit several locations tied to Prophet Ayyub’s life, including the cave where he is said to have suffered and prayed, and the sacred well believed to have the healing waters. Prophet Job’s tomb is located in the village of Eyyub Nebi, about 20 km outside of Urfa, and it is a sacred site for pilgrims.

Unmatched Entertainment of Mesopotamia

In Mesopotamia, entertainment is deeply rooted in centuries-old traditions, offering an authentic cultural experience without the noise of modern nightclubs. These gatherings preserve the heritage of the region through music, dance, and food.

Sıra Nights in Şanlıurfa

One of the most authentic cultural traditions, sıra nights (sıra geceleri), originate in Şanlıurfa. These nights are characterized by music, dance, storytelling, and traditional food, offering a warm and communal atmosphere.

• Mırra coffee is served first, followed by çiğ köfte, the main dish, and şıllık for dessert.
• The evening involves groups of people sitting across from each other, singing folk songs, sharing stories, and making çiğ köfte together.

This vibrant tradition is a must-experience for visitors to Şanlıurfa.

Leyli Nights in Mardin

In Mardin, you can witness the traditional leyli nights, which feature the famous Reyhani dances. These dances are performed individually, with participants kneeling and opening their palms, symbolizing the invocation of blessings from God. The dance represents love, separation, happiness, and reunion.

Leyli nights are accompanied by local culinary delights, including:

• Çiğ köfte
• Cevizli sucuk (ıkudi)
• Fruit leather, walnuts, almonds, and pekmez halva

Through songs, folk dances, and food, leyli nights pass down the rich traditions of Mardin to future generations.

Eyvan Nights in Diyarbakır

Another popular entertainment form in Diyarbakır is Eyvan nights. Similar to sıra nights, they feature traditional food, including çiğ köfte and local dishes, accompanied by fun, storytelling, and nargile (hookah). These gatherings offer the perfect setting to socialize, take pictures, and experience local culture.

Dengbej Tradition in Diyarbakır

The Dengbej tradition is an ancient form of storytelling and music. Dengbej refers to the singers who perform kilam (narrative poetry) and stran (folk songs) about historical events, love, and epic tales.

At the Dengbej House in Diyarbakır, you can experience live performances where dengbejs perform emotional duets. Listening to them while sipping tea is a unique cultural experience that takes you back centuries.

For those seeking a more modern twist, rock bars in Diyarbakır offer contemporary music, giving visitors a blend of tradition and modernity.

routes

Grand Mesopotamia Tour

This 9-day minimum tour invites you to explore Mesopotamia’s rich history, diverse culture, breathtaking nature, and world-renowned gastronomy.

• The journey begins in Antep (Gaziantep) with its historical inns, Turkish baths, bazaars, and narrow stone streets. Visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, the world’s largest mosaic museum, and the nearby Zeugma excavation site on the Euphrates River.
• Proceed to Birecik, known for its eggplants, kebabs, and künefe, and home to the last surviving Hermit Ibises. From there, visit the submerged village of Halfeti and take a ferry to Rumkale Fortress.
• In Şanlıurfa (Urfa), explore Göbekli Tepe, Harran, Balıklıgöl, Tek Tek National Park, and Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum.
• Continue to Adıyaman, where you will see Atatürk Dam and the iconic Mount Nemrut, offering unforgettable views of the sunrise and sunset.
• The next stop is Diyarbakır, a city rich in history with its UNESCO-listed city walls and Hasan Paşa Inn.
• The tour then leads to Mardin, with its multicultural atmosphere, filigree workshops, and ancient monasteries.
• Visit Hasankeyf before concluding the tour in Siirt, known for its gastronomy, Tillo education center, and Botan Valley.

On the Track of Wheat (5-Day Route)

Follow the history of wheat cultivation through Neolithic sites and agricultural landmarks:

1. Göbekli Tepe: The oldest temple structure, dating back 12,000 years.
2. Harran: Famous for its cone-shaped houses and medieval Arabic artifacts.
3. Bazda Caves and Soğmatar: Explore ancient Sabean moon god temples.
4. Karacadağ Region: The origin of Einkorn wheat (Siyez wheat).
5. Çayönü in Diyarbakır: A Neolithic site reflecting early sedentary settlements.
6. Lake Hazar and Aslantepe Tumulus in Malatya: A Hittite site where the first minimum wage was paid in the form of wheat.

Mystery of Huge Stones (5-Day Route)

This route focuses on two iconic sites: Göbekli Tepe and Mount Nemrut.

1. Explore Şanlıurfa: Visit Balıklıgöl, Urfa Castle, Harran, and Bazda Caves.
2. Cross the Euphrates River to reach Adıyaman: Witness its ancient sites like Perrhe and Mount Nemrut National Park.
3. End at Mount Nemrut: Experience the famous sunrise and sunset among ancient statues of gods.

Mosaic Path (5-Day Route)

This is a visual and cultural journey showcasing stunning mosaics:

1. Adana Museum: See mosaics from Misis and Yumurtalık, including the famous Eros mosaic.
2. Antakya (Antioch): Visit the Antakya Museum, home to the Oceanus & Tethys mosaic.
3. Kahramanmaraş: Known for the exquisite Late Roman mosaics.
4. Gaziantep’s Zeugma Mosaic Museum: Famous for the “Gypsy Girl” mosaic.
5. Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum in Şanlıurfa: Home to the unique Amazon Queen mosaic.

Tour of Clemency (5-Day Religious Route)

This route focuses on the spiritual and religious significance of Mesopotamia:

1. Antakya: Known for its multifaith heritage and religious landmarks.
2. Gaziantep: Visit the tomb of Ökkeşi His Holiness.
3. Şanlıurfa: Explore sites tied to Prophet Abraham and Prophet Job (Ayyub), including Göbekli Tepe.
4. Mardin: A city where churches, mosques, and synagogues coexist.

From the Hittites to Commagene

• Gaziantep: Begin with the Yesemek Stone Workshop, the first open-air sculpture workshop.
• Zeugma Mosaic Museum: Discover the legacy of the Commagene civilization.
• Rumkale and Halfeti: Enjoy a boat trip to ancient ruins and submerged villages.
• Mount Nemrut: End at the UNESCO-listed peak to witness its iconic sculptures of gods.

In Pursuit of Art and Science: The Artuqids

This route covers the legacy of the Artuqid Dynasty, a beacon of medieval art and science.

1. Elazığ (Harput): Visit the Ulu Camii with its bent minaret.
2. Diyarbakır: Explore the Palace of Artuqids, castle walls, madrasas, and bridges.
3. Mardin and Hasankeyf: Marvel at the Malabadi Bridge and the automated devices of El Cezeri (father of robotics).

This route allows you to rediscover Mesopotamia’s scientific and artistic contributions.