Located in southeastern Turkey, this ancient city has deep ties to Abraham and religious history. Its sacred Balıklıgöl lake and centuries-old streets tell stories from Assyrian to Ottoman times.
Şanlıurfa, a city in southeastern Turkey, connects deeply with religious history and archaeological discoveries. You can feed sacred carp in the Balıklıgöl pools, examine 11,000-year-old stone pillars at Göbekli Tepe, and shop for copper goods and handwoven carpets in the bazaar's narrow lanes. The city's mosques, caves, and museums tell stories of Prophet Abraham and early human settlements through their architecture and artifacts.
Exploring the Sacred Fish Pools
The Balıklıgöl complex sits at the heart of Şanlıurfa's old town, between the Rızvaniye Mosque and Halilur Rahman Mosque. Hundreds of carp swim in these pools, linked to the legend of Prophet Abraham. Local tradition says when King Nimrod threw Abraham into a fire, God transformed the flames into water and the burning wood into fish. You can sit in the garden and watch local families feed the fish.
Discovering the World's Oldest Temple
You'll find Göbekli Tepe 12 kilometers northeast of the city center. This temple complex dates to 10,000 BCE, making it 6,000 years older than Stonehenge. The excavated areas contain massive T-shaped pillars with animal carvings. You can explore these ancient stones and learn about their significance at the on-site museum.
Walking Through the Bazaar
In the covered bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı), you'll hear coppersmiths hammering patterns into pots and see carpet makers working at their looms. The market's narrow lanes lead you through different sections: textiles hang from shop entrances, spice vendors display colorful mounds of seasonings, and local sellers offer Urfa's regionally grown pistachios.
Tasting Local Specialties
Şanlıurfa's location on ancient trade routes has shaped its food culture. Try çiğ köfte, made from raw minced meat kneaded with bulgur and spices. Local cooks prepare Urfa kebab using tail fat and red pepper for flavor. Sample the regional Urfa cheese, made from sheep and goat milk, with fresh flatbread from the bazaar's bakeries.
Getting Around
You can reach Şanlıurfa through GAP Airport, which has direct flights from Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. Most old town attractions are within walking distance of each other. For trips to Göbekli Tepe or Harran, take organized tours or hire a taxi. Plan your visit during spring or autumn - summer temperatures often reach above 40°C (104°F).
