Introducing Mardin
Everyone loves Mardin, and it’s immediately apparent why: this ancient town crowned with a castle overlooks the vast, roasted Mesopotamian plains extending to Syria, and the honey-coloured stone houses that trip down the side of the hillside give it something of the feel of old Jerusalem. Whatever the time of the year, the interplay of light and stone is enchanting. Another draw is the mosaic of people. Sizeable Yezidi, Christian and Syrian settlements, among others, add to the population mix, giving the area a refreshing burst of multiculturalism.
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This region was particularly hard-hit by the troubles of the 1980s and ‘90s and has really reopened to tourism only in the last few years. It’s now a completely safe place to travel, and Mardin has started to become popular with Turkish travellers. Get there before the crowds do.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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Re: Two Weeks in Istanbul and SE Turkey
by bedknobs 14 September 2011
Looks pretty good. The things that jump out at me are: - Round Van might be OK provided you get to see the castle on the day you fly…
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Re: North Turkey
by jhattam 12 September 2011
Why not go south or southeast, especially given the time of year you'll be here? It doesn't sound like you've seen much (or any) of the…
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Re: 1st trip to Turkey- Need Advice on a few things!
by pipermam 10 September 2011
We went on to Mt Nemrut, Urfa and Mardin from Capppadocia. We also stayed in the Kelebek Hotel. Have a great trip! [http://cilginkiz-hocam.b…
