Karagözler, Fevzi Çakmak Cd. No:49, 48300 Fethiye/Muğla, Türkiye
Sanliurfa: The Ancient City of Prophets
Sanliurfa, often referred to simply as Urfa, is a city steeped in history and religious significance. Located 46 km from the Syrian border, it has a population of over 1.7 million and is considered one of the oldest settlements in Mesopotamia. It is also home to the world’s first Islamic university.
Over its 3,500-year history, Urfa has been known by many names, including Edessa, and has been shaped by numerous civilizations, including the Hittites, Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks, Romans, Seljuk Turks, and even Alexander the Great. Due to its position as a bridge between Asia, Europe, and Africa, Urfa has been a melting pot of cultures for millennia.
Top Attractions in Sanliurfa
Abraham’s Cave & Balıklıgol (The Pools of Holy Carp)
One of Urfa’s most sacred sites, Abraham’s Cave is believed to be the birthplace of the prophet Abraham (Ibrahim). According to Islamic tradition, the tyrannical King Nimrod ordered the execution of Abraham, who opposed idol worship. However, God miraculously saved him by turning the fire into water and the burning embers into holy carp.
Today, the Pools of Holy Carp (Balıklıgol) are filled with thousands of sacred fish, which are considered blessed and should not be harmed.
Gobekli Tepe: The World’s Oldest Religious Site
Located 12 km from Urfa, Gobekli Tepe is the oldest known man-made religious structure, dating back to the 10th millennium BCE. Built 7,000 years before Stonehenge, this prehistoric temple complex rewrites human history, proving that early humans practiced organized religion before they even developed agriculture.
Discovered in the 1990s, Göbekli Tepe features:
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important archaeological discoveries of all time.
Sanliurfa Archaeological Museum
For those who want to dive deeper into Urfa’s past, the Sanliurfa Archaeological Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including:
Covered Market Bazaars
Urfa’s bazaars are a feast for the senses, filled with spices, textiles, antiques, and handcrafted goods. The Gumruk Han, a 16th-century caravanserai, is one of the best places to enjoy traditional Turkish coffee or tea while soaking in the historic atmosphere.
Why Visit Sanliurfa?
Şanlıurfa is a city where history, religion, and culture intertwine. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Gobekli Tepe, wandering through vibrant bazaars, or reflecting at Balıklıgol, Urfa offers an experience unlike any other.
With its deep-rooted heritage and extraordinary archaeological significance, Sanliurfa is a destination that no history lover should miss.
