5 Days Mesopotamia and Gobeklitepe Tour 

5 Days Mesopotamia and Gobeklitepe Tour

Highlights: Mardin, Gobeklitepe, Sanliurfa, Antakya

Explore the ancient cradle of civilizations, Mesopotamia, nestled between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Delve into Mardin’s diverse religious and cultural tapestry, shaped by the Sumerians, Akkadians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, and more. Discover its captivating architecture, limestone streets, and stone houses. Key attractions include the Mardin Grand Mosque, Kasimiye Madrasah, Deyrulzafaran Monastery, Dara Antique City, Nusaybin, and Midyat.

Journey to Sanliurfa and experience the remarkable Gobeklitepe, an over 12,000-year-old temple and sanctuary. Marvel at its monumental structures, towering T-shaped limestone pillars adorned with totems, animal figurines, and enigmatic symbols. Recognized as the world’s oldest temple, Gobeklitepe predates Egypt’s pyramids and Stonehenge, holding UNESCO World Heritage status and symbolizing a pivotal point in human history.

5 Days Mesopotamia and Gobeklitepe Tour: A Journey through Ancient Wonders

Day 1: Istanbul – Mardin

Kick off your Mesopotamia and Gobeklitepe adventure with a transfer to Istanbul’s airport. Catch your flight to Mardin, a city steeped in cultural heritage and magnificent architecture. Explore the charming limestone streets, visit the Grand Mosque of Mardin, and discover the city’s exquisite mansions and stone houses. Savor traditional Mardin dishes at a local restaurant for lunch, followed by a visit to Kasimiye Madrasah. Finally, settle into your Mardin hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Dara – Nusaybin – Midyat (Breakfast)

After breakfast, set off to explore Deyrulzafaran Monastery, an ancient site built on the grounds of a sun temple. Dating back to the 5th century, it served as the ecumenical seat of the Syriac Orthodox Congregation. Discover the central chapel, crypt, old chapel, and cellar. Next, visit the historic Dara Ancient city, originally an Assyrian settlement later rebuilt by Roman Emperors. Explore its remains, including the necropolis, fortification walls, and Agora church. Continue to Nusaybin to visit the Jacob Church and enjoy lunch by the river in Beyazsu. Conclude your day with a delightful walking tour in Midyat before returning to Mardin for the night.

Day 3: Gobeklitepe – Sanliurfa (Breakfast)

After breakfast, embark on an awe-inspiring journey to Gobeklitepe, the world’s oldest temple, predating the Pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge. Explore the 12,000-year-old sanctuary and temple. Continue to Sanliurfa to visit the Archaeology Museum, Mosaic Museum, and Balikligol, associated with Prophet Abraham’s birthplace. Enjoy some free time to explore the city at your leisure before an overnight stay in Sanliurfa.

Day 4: Adiyaman – Nemrut Mountain (Breakfast)

Head to Adiyaman after breakfast to witness the stunning Nemrut Mountain. Marvel at the mausoleum of Antiochus I of Commagene, perched 2,200 meters high atop Nemrut Mountain. Admire colossal statues from the Commagene Kingdom and soak in breathtaking natural beauty. Journey to Kahta to explore Arsemia Antique City, the Roman Bridge of Cendere, and the Royal Tomb of Karakus. Conclude your day in Gaziantep for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Antakya – Istanbul (Breakfast)

Begin your day with a trip to Antakya and visit the Antakya Archaeology Museum, renowned for its Hellenistic and Roman mosaic collection. Explore the St. Pierre Church before heading to the airport for your flight back to Istanbul, concluding your Mesopotamia and Gobeklitepe adventure.