Imagine walking through a city that has been a cradle of civilization for 12,000 years. Welcome to Urfa, a place where history comes alive. As you explore this ancient city, you’ll uncover a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions that have shaped the region.
Urfa, also known as Şanlıurfa, is a pilgrimage site that offers a unique blend of ancient history and authentic Turkish culture. With its vibrant bazaars, religious sites, and proximity to Göbekli Tepe, a temple that’s 6,000 years older than Stonehenge, Urfa is a travel destination like no other. As you wander through its streets, you’ll experience the “real” Turkey, untouched by mass tourism.
This ancient city, steeped in years of history, invites you to explore its many wonders. Get ready to uncover the top things to do in this captivating city.
Discovering Urfa: A City of Ancient History and Religious Significance
As you step into Urfa, you’re immediately immersed in a world where ancient history and religious significance blend seamlessly. This city, with its rich past, offers a unique experience that combines the spiritual and the historical.
The Historical Significance of Urfa
Urfa stands as one of the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, with archaeological evidence dating back thousands of years. It is believed that Sanliurfa is the birthplace of Prophet Abraham, making it a significant religious center. The city’s strategic location along ancient trade routes contributed to its historical importance.
Why Urfa Is Worth Visiting
Visiting Urfa offers a unique opportunity to witness the layers of history that have shaped not just Turkey, but human civilization as a whole. The city’s religious significance continues to draw pilgrims and spiritual seekers, creating a distinctive atmosphere that blends faith, history, and culture. It’s a place that is definitely worth visiting for its authentic cultural experience.
Urfa, Turkey: Best Things to Do – Top Picks for History Lovers
With its rich historical tapestry, Urfa invites travelers to delve into the past and uncover the secrets of ancient civilizations. The city is home to numerous historical sites that are sure to captivate history enthusiasts.
Göbekli Tepe: The World’s Oldest Temple
Göbekli Tepe stands as the world’s oldest known temple complex, dating back approximately 12,000 years and predating Stonehenge by 6,000 years. This revolutionary archaeological site features massive T-shaped limestone pillars weighing several tons each, carved with intricate animal reliefs before the invention of metal tools.
You can reach Göbekli Tepe easily from Urfa by taking Bus ‘0’ which runs several times daily, making it an accessible day trip from the city center.
Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum
The Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum offers a comprehensive journey through human history, with exhibits spanning from the Paleolithic era to the rise of Islam. One of the museum’s most remarkable treasures is the 11,000-year-old “Urfa Man,” the oldest known life-sized human sculpture in the world.
Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours at the archaeology museum to fully appreciate its extensive collection that chronicles the birth of civilization.
Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum
The Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum, included in your archaeology museum ticket, houses stunning Roman mosaics discovered accidentally in 2006 during the construction of a theme park. These historical sites collectively tell the story of thousands of years of human development, making Urfa a paradise for history enthusiasts.
Visiting these sites provides a unique insight into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage, making Urfa a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and archaeology.
Religious and Cultural Sites in Urfa
Urfa, a city steeped in history and faith, is home to numerous religious and cultural sites that attract visitors from around the world. The city’s rich heritage is palpable as you explore its sacred landmarks, each telling a story of its own.
Balikli Gol (Fish Lake) and the Legend of Abraham
Balikli Gol, or The Pool of Abraham, is one of Urfa’s most revered sites, where legend has it that King Nimrod attempted to burn Prophet Abraham, but God miraculously transformed the fire into water and the logs into fish. The lake is home to thousands of sacred carp that you can feed, and spotting a white carp among the grey ones is considered a blessing.
The beautiful grounds surrounding the lake feature manicured gardens, the stunning Halil-ur-Rahman Mosque, and peaceful walkways, making it a perfect spot for contemplation and prayer.
Prophet Abraham’s Cave (Mevlid Halil Mosque)
Adjacent to Balikli Gol is Prophet Abraham’s Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Abraham, where he remained hidden for the first 15 years of his life to escape King Nimrod’s persecution. As you visit the cave, you’ll notice separate entrances for men and women, leading to different sections.
Inside, you’ll find areas for prayer and a small section where water seeps from the ceiling, considered holy by pilgrims who often collect it. Many visitors walk out backward as a sign of respect, a tradition worth observing.
Exploring Urfa’s Markets and Traditional Hans
As you wander through the historic streets of Urfa, you’ll discover vibrant markets and traditional hans that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. The city’s markets and hans are a testament to its history as a significant trading hub.
Gumruk Bazaar: One of Turkey’s Most Authentic Markets
The Gumruk Bazaar stands as one of Turkey’s most authentic traditional markets, offering a genuine shopping experience largely untouched by tourists. As you explore the bazaar, you’ll encounter artisans practicing traditional crafts, from wood carving to metal welding, amidst the sounds of commerce.
At the heart of the bazaar lies a large covered courtyard housing several cafes where you can rest, sip tea, and observe locals going about their daily business.
Barutcu Han and Other Historical Caravanserais
Barutcu Han, a hidden historical caravanserai, requires some exploration to find but rewards visitors with its impressive architecture and peaceful atmosphere. This renovated complex features a spacious ground floor filled with tables where you can enjoy traditional Turkish tea or a full breakfast spread.
Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the upper levels of Barutcu Han for panoramic views of the entire complex and to appreciate its historical significance.
Must-Try Food and Drinks in Urfa
The flavors of Urfa are as rich and diverse as its history, offering a culinary journey like no other. As you explore this ancient city, you’ll discover a blend of traditional dishes and local ingredients that reflect its cultural heritage.
Cig Kofte: Urfa’s Famous Spicy Delicacy
Cig kofte, or “raw meatballs,” is a legendary dish from Urfa, tied to the legend of Prophet Abraham. Originally made with raw venison, today it’s mostly served as a vegetarian version due to health regulations. The mixture of bulgur, spices, and herbs creates a spicy and flavorful experience.
Urfa Kebab and Other Local Specialties
Urfa is renowned for its Urfa kebab, a less spicy cousin of the Adana kebab, featuring tender lamb seasoned with local herbs. Don’t miss trying the eggplant kebab, where smoky grilled eggplant complements the seasoned meat.
Mirra Coffee: The Bitter Traditional Brew
Mirra coffee is a unique local drink served in tiny cups. It’s thick, dark, and super concentrated, providing a powerful energy boost. The name “mirra” comes from the Arabic word for bitter, accurately describing its intense flavor.
Where to Eat in Urfa: Top Restaurant Recommendations
For an authentic dining experience, head to Cevahir Han, a restored Silk Road caravanserai. Enjoy local specialties like cig kofte and Urfa kebab in a historic setting. Expect generous hospitality and traditional non-alcoholic beverages.
Practical Travel Information for Visiting Urfa
Before you travel to Urfa, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Reaching Urfa is convenient through its domestic airport (GNY), which offers regular flights from major Turkish cities including Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara.
For budget travelers, intercity buses provide an economical way to reach Urfa, with regular services from nearby cities like Gaziantep (2 hours) and Mardin (2.5 hours). You can take bus number 0 to travel between Urfa city center and Göbekli Tepe, departing several times a day from outside the Archaeological Museum.
The journey from Urfa to Göbekli Tepe takes approximately 45 minutes each way. When planning your visit, consider spending at least 2-3 days in Urfa to fully appreciate its historical sites, markets, and cultural attractions without rushing.
Urfa is more conservative than western Turkish cities, so respectful dress is recommended. The best times to visit are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are pleasant for exploring the city on foot.
