Where history began: Mesopotamia

Commune with the past: History of Mesopotamia 

Mesopotamian history is illuminated by one of the oldest settlements of all time and by important ruins from the Hellenistic period; by the long, narrow Diyarbakır Walls and by countless temples. Fortunately, you don’t need to go far to make new discoveries and take an intriguing journey through time: Check out Fertile lands: Historical sites of Mesopotamia, book an affordable flight, and be on your way!

Journey to ancient cities

Halfeti, dating from 855 BC, lies between Sanliurfa and Gaziantep – 105 kilometers from the former and 110 kilometers from the latter. The Arsameia Ancient City, dating from the Commagene era, is on the Nemrut Mountain route, in Adıyaman; Arsameia is believed to have served as the summer capital of the Commagenes. Çayönü Ancient City is in Diyarbakır, on the borders of Mesopotamia. And there’s much more – just check out The cradle of civilization: Ancient Cities in the Mesopotamian region. You might want to take notes. ☺

Mesopotamia’s open-air museums

The astonishing history of Türkiye’s southeast is vividly illustrated in fertile landscapes and extraordinary structures that essentially present an open-air museum. For more information on the incredible Göbeklitepe Ruins, which have revolutionized our knowledge of human history, or Mount Nemrut, with its ancient ruins and sculptures from the Commagene Kingdom, you can read Spring routes: Open-air museums in the Southeast. This blog also describes the popular Yesemek Ruins, which are located on 110 acres of land within the borders of Gaziantep.

Camping experience in the Southeast

Camping may not be the first activity that comes to mind when contemplating the Southeastern Anatolia Region, but the area offers a compelling atmosphere that brings camping to a new level. Moreover, the Mesopotamia region hosts impressive campsites along with its other beauties. Discover the campsites around Şanlıurfa, the city of prophets, and Mardin, the fairy tale city, in our blog Accompanied by a mysterious atmosphere: Campgrounds in the Urfa and Mardin provinces.

Mesopotamia’s mouthwatering routes

No overview is complete without food and certainly southeastern Anatolia is among the regions most prominent in Türkiye’s deep gastronomic history. A variety of unusual and delicious local and regional flavors can be found across the southeast and a culinary tour of the three ancient cities of Mesopotamia – Diyarbakır, Şanlıurfa and Mardin – will whet your appetite. For more information, read our blog, Taste routes: The culinary traditions of Diyarbakır, Urfa and Mardin. ☺

An extraordinary journey to Diyarbakir

Diyarbakır is a remarkable city that has hosted many civilizations in its nine thousand years of history. With a variety of cultures and monumental structures dating from the Stone Age, Diyarbakır is a city of Mesopotamia worth visiting. Our article on Diyarbakır’s highlights provides information on the area’s historical sites, local dishes and drinks, and much more!

The colors and harmony of Hatay

Hatay, where traces of history linger in every corner, is a sanctuary of multiculturalism. Home to centuries-old mosques and churches, and the Orontos River, a miracle of nature, Hatay is also famous for its culinary culture. Our sightseeing guide One city, three days: Hatay, offers an overview of the area’s historical sites, cuisine and more!