Hasankeyf's castle sits high atop the cliff so is going to escape being submerged by the Ilısu Dam. Due to the reservoir wall construction going on just under the fortifications, it was shut in 2019. Local rumour on our last visit was that boat trips to the castle would be arranged after the dam is finished.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

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1. Mor Yakop

15.8 MILES

One of the most interesting churches of the Tür Abdin, the finely restored Mor Yakop (St Jacob's) dates from the 6th century and is the finest example of…

2. Mor Kyriakos

17.91 MILES

Knock for entry to Mor Kyriakos, surrounded by high walls on the edge of Bağlarbaşı (Arnasê) village. Once through the gate, the bulky fortress-style…

3. Mor Eliyo

19.36 MILES

A church is thought to have sat on this site since 343 but the present church building in Alagöz (Baqisyan) is much rebuilt and restored. The stone-arched…

4. Mor Izozoal

19.6 MILES

You need to knock for entry to Mor Izozoal, which sits grandly atop the hill in Altıntaş (Kiverzê). Inside, the church has some beautiful stone carved…

5. Meryemana

19.8 MILES

The Meryemana (Virgin Mary) church sits at the entrance to Anıtli (Haxê) village, just before the large jandarma (army) building. The ornate, carved…

6. Eski Midyat

20.53 MILES

Midyat's compact old town area extends east behind Atatürk Caddesi, the main road through town. At the main roundabout between Atatürk and Cumhuriyet…

7. Morgabriel (Deyrul Umur) Monastery

27.93 MILES

About 18km east of Midyat, Morgabriel (Deyrul Umur) Monastery is surrounded by gently rolling hills dotted with olive groves. Though much restored, the…