Ancient Turkish cities await holidaymakers

Basking in its historical glory, Diyarbakır boasts more than 4.82 kilometers (three miles) of spectacular stone walls that were probably first erected around 2000 B.C. and are included on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Visitors can enjoy a breakfast featuring indigenous delicacies in the mystic atmosphere of Diyarbakır House and Sülüklü Inn. Then they can set out to explore the city starting with Mesudiye Madrasah, one of the first universities of Anatolia. Diyarbakır's Ulu Mosque, estimated to have been built in 938 A.D. and located in Sur district, is one of the city's must-see attractions. Atatürk Mansion, located in the south, is another place that comes to mind when someone mentions Diyarbakır. The Hilar caves and Çayönü hill, some of the oldest known cave settlements of Anatolia, shed light on the history of civilization in addition to regional history. Those looking forward to exploring the local culinary delights in Diyarbakır can enjoy meals such as liver kebab, meftune, içli köfte (stuffed meatballs) and meaty or sour dolma. Mardin city, with its historical mosques, madrasahs, churches, monasteries and unique architecture, offers an unforgettable holiday for visitors. Watching the sunrise and sunset over Mardin Citadel in the ancient city provides holidaymakers with a unique and unforgettable experience. Some of the delicacies holidaymakers can enjoy are Sembüsek, içli köfte (stuffed meatballs), kibe bumbar, dolma, stew and ribs. Moreover, visitors to Mardin can swing by the colorful and bustling market, where they can buy exotic spices, sugared almonds, telkari silver, handicraft objects and local organic soap. Deyrulzafaran Monastery, Virgin Mary Church and Mor Yakup Monastery are some of the other important historical sites to visit, particularly for those into cultural tourism. Mor Gabriel Monastery, 23 kilometers from Midyat district, is the third largest monastery in the world. The Dara Ruins, where ancient rock tombs dating back to the 5th century A.D. are located, are viewed as the 'Ephesus of Mesopotamia'. The Dara Ancient Site was one of the important settlements located on the Silk Road. Özgür Azad Güngör, the head of Mardin's Tourism and Hotels Association, said the city is ready to host local and international tourists for the midterm holiday, adding Mardin has always enjoyed wide interest among tourists.