The origins of the name Tarsus and its founding legends
Tarsus is steeped in countless legends and mythological stories about its origins, tales passed down through generations for centuries. Ancient sources provide many captivating accounts. In one Greek myth, the winged horse Pegasus and the hero Bellerophon get lost across the vast Cilician plain of Çukurova. When they reach what is now Tarsus, Pegasus injures his hoof, and the city is said to have gotten its Greek name “Tarsos,” meaning “sole of the foot.” Another tradition links the city’s name to “tersein,” a verb meaning “to dry,” because it was believed to be the first place where land emerged after Noah’s floodwaters receded. Different myths attribute the city’s founding to various figures. The renowned geographer Strabo notes that a group from Argos, led by Triptolemus, the son of the agricultural goddess Demeter, settled in the plain and founded the city of Tarsus. Of course, most of these tales lean more toward legend than fact, yet they reveal how ancient the settlement really is. The city appears as Tarşa in Hittite tablets and as Tarzi or Tarsis in Assyrian records from the ninth century BCE. Taken together, these clues suggest that the name Tarsus has been used for thousands of years, possibly dating back to an ancient deity such as the Hittite storm god Tarhun or Tarku.
The historical heritage and legends of Tarsus
As you walk through the streets of Tarsus, you feel history come alive with every step. The city’s most notable landmark, the Gate of Cleopatra, is the only remaining gateway from the ancient city walls and is named after the legendary Egyptian queen. Legend has it that after Caesar’s death, Rome’s powerful general Mark Antony invited Cleopatra to Tarsus in 41 BCE. She arrived by ship and entered the city through this Sea Gate in a grand ceremony—an event that sparked one of history’s most famous romances. Today, the Gate of Cleopatra stands as a monument to Tarsus’s rich history, with its arches rising on both sides as if holding centuries in place. Nearby, remnants of columned structures and ancient roads preserve the splendor of the Roman era.
Speaking of those ancient roads, the Roman Road just outside the city center deserves special mention. Lying along the foothills near Sağlıklı Village, this stone-paved route and its adjacent triumphal arch were built in the 1st century and remained in use until the 4th. Its roughly three-meter width suggests how busy it must have been back then. Walking here today, surrounded by nature and stepping directly on these old stones, provides a rare experience that takes you back across thousands of years.
Tarsus holds a special place not only in local history but also in the traditions of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Saint Paul, known in the Bible as “Saul of Tarsus,” was born here and played a defining role in the early development of Christianity. The Saint Paul Memorial Museum, dedicated to him, is a historic church built in the late 12th century that once served as an important gathering place for the Christian community. Just a few steps away is the Well of Saint Paul, believed to be located in the garden of the house where he lived. For centuries, pilgrims traveling from distant lands paused here on their way to Jerusalem, drinking from the well’s water in hopes of healing. Today, Saint Paul’s Church and the Well, along with the surrounding historic quarter, are listed on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List, highlighting once again the significance Tarsus holds in the broader story of humanity.
Gözlükule Mound, located in the city center, reveal traces of continuous settlement dating back to the Neolithic period. The monumental ruins known locally as Donuktaş, believed to be part of one of the biggest temples of the ancient world, highlight the city’s former importance. Construction of the Donuktaş Temple started during the reign of Roman emperor Hadrian, but it was never finished. It measures about 130 meters long and 60 meters wide, once surrounded by walls eight meters high, with huge columns rising above. Although its exact purpose is uncertain, scholars think it may have been dedicated either to Sandon, the chief deity of Tarsus, or to the Roman emperors. Over the years, it was mistakenly thought to be the tomb of the Assyrian king Sardanapalus and was damaged by misguided interventions in the nineteenth century. Archaeological excavations in the twentieth century confirmed it was, in fact, a Roman temple. Today, this impressive ruin in Tekke Quarter still stands far from the recognition it deserves.
Excavations throughout the city center have also uncovered intricate mosaics that reflect Tarsus’s refined artistic heritage. A recently discovered third-century mosaic floor depicting Orpheus and Ganymede has captivated everyone who has seen it. Although these and similar pieces are now displayed in modern museums, countless layers of history still remain buried beneath the streets of Tarsus. The newly opened Tarsus Museum showcases some of the most remarkable pieces of this legacy and brings them into the spotlight.
The cultural riches of Tarsus
As you make your way through Tarsus, you don’t just see historic monuments; you experience a rich cultural atmosphere settling around you. The traditional Tarsus houses in the Kızılmurat Quarter are among the best examples of the city’s daily life in past centuries. Built with stone bases, protruding bay windows, and wooden-framed openings, these homes combine Ottoman and early Republican architectural styles. Out of about 300 registered historic houses, some have been carefully restored and reintegrated into the texture of the streets.
In terms of cultural and religious diversity, Tarsus is very much a mosaic. Within just a few steps, you can see mosques, churches, and even an old synagogue standing side by side. At the city’s center rises the Grand Mosque, an imposing structure built in the sixteenth century during the Ramazanoğulları Principality. With its courtyard fountain, cut-stone columns, and wooden pulpit, it stands as a graceful example of Turkish-Islamic architecture. Next to it sits the Makam-ı Danyal Mosque, one of Tarsus’s most intriguing sites. According to tradition, the Prophet Daniel came to Tarsus during a famine, brought the community back to abundance, and was buried here after his death.
Tarsus’s cultural richness isn’t limited to its physical landmarks; the legends passed down and the traditions kept alive also shape the city’s spirit. One of the stories most closely associated with Tarsus is the Legend of Şahmeran. This mythical being, half serpent and half woman, is said in local lore to have lived in Tarsus and to have been killed in a bathhouse there. The Şahmeran Bath in the city center still stands as a historic site linked to that story. As you walk through Tarsus, you’ll notice traces of the legend everywhere: a Şahmeran figure painted on a wall or a keepsake with her image picked up from the market.
The city’s markets and bazaars are just as vital to this cultural fabric. Restored with care, the Kırkkaşık Inn is named after a legend about forty silver spoons that once went missing there. Today, it’s a great stop for handcrafted copperware, spices, and local gifts. Not far away, Siptilli Bazaar tells a different story. Every shop in this small market is run by a woman entrepreneur. As you walk through Siptilli, you can explore Tarsus’s traditional products while enjoying the lively conversations of the women who keep the place vibrant. At these stalls, you might find handwoven local rugs, delicate needle-lace linens, or jars of freshly made preserves.
The city also features important sites for faith-based travel. About twelve kilometers north of Tarsus, at the base of a mountain, lies the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, known locally as Eshab-ı Kehf. It is considered one of the locations where the legend of the Seven Sleepers, shared by both Islamic and Christian traditions, is said to have taken place. On weekends, locals come here to picnic and experience the spiritual atmosphere, while visitors from abroad often stop by to see the cave inspired by the ancient story.
The natural riches of Tarsus
For those seeking natural beauty, Tarsus Waterfall offers a refreshing pause. Located just outside the city center along the Berdan River, the waterfall cascades from a height, creating a calm oasis during the summer heat. With its tea gardens and picnic spots, it remains a favorite gathering place for locals. In spring, when the water flows strongly, you might catch sight of a rainbow; by late summer, as the flow decreases, the rock-cut tomb niches from the Roman era become visible behind the falls. This area was once a necropolis, and when the river’s course shifted, some of the tombs ended up underwater. As the water level drops, their outlines reappear. Here, history and nature are deeply connected. Sitting on a wooden bench by the water, sipping tea, listening to the gentle ripple of the river, and knowing that the rocks beneath you hold stories from thousands of years ago creates a feeling that’s hard to describe.
Another natural retreat lies north of the city: the Tarsus Dam, built on the cool waters that flow down from the Taurus Mountains. Construction began in the 1970s, and the dam became operational in 1984. Rising above the Berdan River, it was designed to utilize local water resources better and prevent flooding. In the hot summers of Çukurova, the reservoir serves as an oasis, attracting residents seeking to escape the heat. Thanks to its proximity to the city, the Tarsus Dam is an easy and convenient escape for anyone craving time in nature. Beyond the dam, Keşbükü Canyon to the north attracts attention with its hiking trails and pristine scenery, while the Karabucak Forests to the south offer opportunities for birdwatching and relaxing walks. High in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, the Gülek Pass adds another layer to Tarsus’s natural beauty with its breathtaking views and role as a historic gateway.
Tarsus on the big screen
Tarsus’s authentic atmosphere and historic charm have also drawn filmmakers and TV producers. In recent years, many movies and series have chosen Tarsus and its surroundings as filming locations, taking advantage of the city’s natural, open-air backdrop. Its old streets, traditional houses, and monumental sites often seem like an instant film set. Among Turkish films that have gained international fame, “Ayla” (2017) is one, with many scenes shot in Tarsus. The award-winning “Beynelmilel” (2006), set in 1980s Türkiye, also selected Tarsus to find authentic settings. Key emotional moments in the popular romantic drama “Issız Adam” (2008) were filmed on the city’s nostalgic streets. Additionally, parts of “Tatar Ramazan,” a classic story set around a prison, were shot here, with Tarsus offering some of the film’s most striking scenes.
TV productions have also followed suit. Several Turkish series have filmed episodes or specific scenes in Tarsus. For example, the drama “Seher Vakti” (2005) was shot almost entirely in the city. More recently, digital-platform productions like “Şahmaran” (2023) have used Tarsus’s natural and historical environment as their backdrop. These film and series shoots not only enhance the screen but also help introduce Tarsus to wider audiences, allowing its beauty to reach far beyond the city itself.
Tarsus: At the heart of fertile lands
Carrying the richness of Çukurova at its heart, Tarsus is also known for its agricultural prosperity. For thousands of years, these fertile plains have yielded a wide range of crops, and even today, the city remains closely linked to certain distinctive local products. Leading that list is the Tarsus White Grape. Indigenous to the area, this pale variety with large, juicy clusters is considered one of “the finest table grapes in the world.” So sweet and flavorful, it’s best enjoyed fresh from the vine. Because of its naturally high sugar content, it’s also commonly used to make molasses, traditional fruit leathers, and confections. Harvest usually begins around mid-June, providing a vital livelihood for local families. Traveling through Tarsus in summer, you’ll notice vineyards heavy with bunches of grapes hanging down the vines.
Beyond grapes, the fertile lands of Tarsus are also famous for sesame, citrus, and olives. Tarsus sesame, in particular, is prized for its aroma and oil content and is the preferred choice for making tahini. The tahini and halvah made from sesame grown in this soil add a distinctive richness to the table. Citrus groves, meanwhile, surround Tarsus like a green belt. The scent of orange, mandarin, and lemon trees begins to fill the air in early spring.
Among Tarsus’s agricultural treasures, the local fruits are perhaps the sweetest highlight. Pomegranates, figs, peaches, and plums grow here abundantly during their seasons. The areas surrounding Tarsus are especially famous for figs. A visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without sampling freshly pressed citrus juices, grape molasses from nearby vineyards, or organic olive oil produced in the surrounding villages. These flavors are gifts from Tarsus’s fertile soil.
The famous foods of Tarsus
Tarsus wins visitors over not just with its history and culture but also with its amazing cuisine. The region’s flavors are so unique and delicious that you might plan an entire trip just to taste them. The city is famous for a culinary tradition unique to itself, one that easily rivals the kitchens of Adana and Antakya. Here are some of the signature must-taste dishes:
Tarsus Kebabı:
When people in Türkiye think of kebab, Adana usually comes to mind first, yet Tarsus Kebabı stands as a bold, unmistakably unique rival to its famous neighbor. At first glance, the two may look similar, but the flavor difference becomes clear with the first bite. Tarsus Kebabı is made by blending ground beef and lamb with garlic, onion, and a special spice mix, shaping the mixture onto skewers, then grilling it over hot coals. Compared to Adana, it uses more generous seasonings, and the addition of a touch of pepper paste and finely chopped vegetables gives it a character all its own. This legendary flavor has even received geographical indication status. In Tarsus, a century-old kebab shop has prepared it with the same recipe for three generations, drawing loyal visitors from all over the country.
Tarsus Humusu:
A gift of Middle Eastern cuisine, hummus takes on a whole new identity in Tarsus. Across Türkiye, humus is typically served cold as a meze, but here it is enjoyed hot and treated almost like a main dish. The biggest difference is in the texture: boiled chickpeas are pounded in a copper mortar, giving the humus a slightly coarse, rustic consistency, and it is served steaming hot. Blended with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin, the chickpea purée is topped with sizzling butter the moment it hits the plate. The aroma of the butter mingles with red pepper and cumin sprinkled on top, creating a scent that immediately stirs the appetite. It can also be served with slices of pastrami or spicy sausage if you prefer. With its own geographical indication, Tarsus humusu is so cherished locally that some even call it “the equal of kebap.” And in truth, in Tarsus it often steals the spotlight at lunchtime. Paired with fresh, warm pide or crusty bread, you’ll find yourself wiping the plate clean, wondering how something as humble as chickpeas and tahini can turn into such a feast.
Cezerye:
For those with a sweet tooth, few local treats are as distinctive as cezerye. Its name comes from the Arabic word “cezer,” meaning carrot. Grated carrots are cooked with sugar for a long time until they turn into a soft, sticky paste, then generously mixed with walnuts, hazelnuts, or pistachios. Once the mixture cools and sets, it is cut into rectangular pieces and rolled in coconut. The result is a sweet that is neither too firm nor too soft, offering the refreshing taste of carrot and the pleasant crunch of nuts in every bite. In the Mersin–Tarsus region, cezerye is also known as a natural energy snack. Centuries ago, caravans carried it for stamina on long journeys. Today, you’ll find countless varieties in the confectionery shops around the city: pistachio, hazelnut, and even cocoa. To enjoy it at its freshest, pick up a box to nibble on during your trip or bring home as a delicious souvenir.
Tantuni:
You simply can’t leave Tarsus without trying tantuni. This beloved dish is made by sautéing finely chopped strips of meat on a large griddle, in cottonseed oil with a splash of water. The constant stirring and occasional sprinkling of water keep the meat tender while giving it a delicate, steamed aroma. The way it’s served is part of its charm: the meat is wrapped in soft lavash or tucked into a loaf of bread, topped with a mix of onion, tomato, and parsley, then finished with sumac and a squeeze of lemon. Follow the irresistible scent drifting from the small, rustic tantuni shops of Tarsus, and you’ll find the real thing. Those who love spicy food usually pair their tantuni with a glass of the region’s famously spicy “şalgam”.
Other local delicacies:
Tarsus cuisine doesn’t end there. “Fındık lahmacun,” a bite-sized version of the regular lahmacun, is a local favorite; crisp, small, and delicious alongside hot hummus. “Sıkma,” a traditional flatbread roll enjoyed at breakfast or as a snack, is filled with butter, cheese, potatoes, or olives and has deep roots in local food culture. The EU-certified Tarsus Sarı Ulak olive is the star of the region’s beloved sumac-dressed olive salad. For dessert, beyond cezerye, “kerebiç” is another local classic; a filled semolina sweet served with a foamy cream flavored with soapwort, especially popular during Ramadan. And while Hatay is usually the name associated with “künefe,” you’ll undoubtedly find excellent versions in the markets of Tarsus. Another well-known sweet is “mamül,” a fragrant cookie made with semolina and flour, filled with walnuts, dates, or pistachios.
Slow Food Earth Market:
Demonstrating Tarsus’s dedication to sustainable living and local cuisine, the Slow Food Earth Market was launched in October 2020 and takes place on the second and fourth Sunday of each month near the Kubat Paşa Medrese. As part of the global Slow Food movement, the market features local products in line with the principles of “good, clean, and fair food.” Most of the participants are women producers, and the entire market operates without plastic. In addition to fresh vegetables, fruits, olives, cheeses, honey, and jams, visitors can also find Tarsus’s geographically indicated specialties. With workshops, tasting events, and outdoor activities for children, the market is more than just a shopping venue; it is a lively cultural meeting point.
Blending history with a rich cultural spirit and unforgettable flavors, Tarsus provides travelers with an inspiring experience. When you step into this city, you’re not just on a sightseeing tour; you’re kind of taking a step back in time, where different eras seem to unfold side by side. One moment, you might find yourself posing beneath the ancient gate Cleopatra once passed through, and the next, you’re sipping coffee in the courtyard of a centuries-old house.
A final note: Reaching Tarsus is now easier than ever. Thanks to the recently opened Çukurova International Airport, just forty kilometers from the city, you can fly here from all across Türkiye and many parts of the world. If you want to combine your Tarsus trip with a broader Mersin itinerary, you can also check out our guide “One City, Three Days: Mersin.” And if the idea of finding yourself wandering through Tarsus’s historic streets just hours after boarding a plane sounds appealing, it might be time to book that ticket. For travelers seeking new discoveries, this legendary city is a captivating destination. A journey to Tarsus will leave you with memories you’ll cherish for a long, long time.
