How would you like to take a journey to the ground zero of history in the ancient lands of Anatolia? Located on the fertile crescent of Mesopotamia, Sanliurfa, known as the city of prophets, promises an unforgettable experience to its visitors with its thousands of years of history, mystical atmosphere and unique flavours. Described as the 'spiritual heart of Turkey', spending a day in this city is like travelling back in time. Let's step into the magical world of Sanliurfa and take a closer look at how to spend a full day in this ancient city. So, what is special about Sanliurfa? What to do in Sanliurfa? What to see in Sanliurfa? And what to eat in Sanliurfa? Let's explore together👇
How to Spend One Day in Sanliurfa: Exploring Turkey’s Spiritual Heart
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A Heritage from the Depths of History: A Brief History of Sanliurfa
Sanliurfa is one of the oldest settlements in the world, dating back to the 11th millennium BC. The city, whose oldest known name is Edessa, has been home to countless civilisations such as Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, Hittites, Assyrians, Persians, Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks and Ottomans throughout history. This rich cultural heritage permeates every corner of the city.
Sanliurfa, also known as the 'City of Prophets' because it is the place where Prophet Abraham was born and believed to have been thrown into the fire, is an important centre for all three Abrahamic religions. It is also home to Göbeklitepe, the world's oldest known temple complex, which further increases the importance of the city. In 1984, Urfa was awarded the title of 'Şanlı (Glorious)' for its heroism in the War of Independence, and today it welcomes its visitors by preserving its historical texture.
What is Sanliurfa Famous for? Much More Than a City
Sanliurfa is a city that stands out not only for its historical and religious significance, but also for its unique culture, art and lifestyle. Here are some of the important values that make Sanliurfa unique:
Göbeklitepe: The world's oldest known temple complex, dating back some 12,000 years. This archaeological site, which rewrote the history of humanity, is famous for its monumental T-shaped columns and the reliefs on them.
Balıklıgöl (Halil-ür Rahman Lake): The holy place where Abraham was thrown into the fire, and it is rumoured that the fire turned into water and the wood into fish. It is an important belief centre with the mosques around it and the cave where Abraham was born.
Sıra Nights: Traditional entertainment and cultural nights unique to Sanliurfa, where music, conversation and local flavours (especially raw meatballs) come together.
Urfa Kebab and Liver Kebab: The city's famous kebabs, made of armour-pulled meat and liver kebab with special spices consumed from the early hours of the morning, have an important place in the gastronomy world.
Isot: It is the indispensable spice of Sanliurfa cuisine with its unique dark colour, sooty aroma and bitter-sweet taste. It adds a unique flavour to meals and especially to lahmacun.
Harran Houses: These are historical adobe houses with a history of thousands of years, which attract attention with their unique conical domed architecture. They are known for keeping cool in summer and warm in winter.
Mırra: It is a traditional type of coffee prepared by boiling many times, known for its bitter and intense taste, and served on special occasions and to guests.
City of Prophets: It is known by this title because many prophets, especially Prophet Abraham, are believed to have lived in these lands, and it is an important faith tourism centre.
Rich Handicrafts: Traditional handicrafts such as coppersmithing, filigree (silver processing), wood carving, and felting are still alive.
What to Eat in Sanliurfa? A Gastronomic Feast at Taste Stops
Sanliurfa cuisine is a product of the fresh ingredients offered by the fertile soil of Mesopotamia, a rich variety of spices and centuries of cultural interactions. This cuisine, where bitter, sweet and sour are skillfully blended, offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience to its visitors. Here are some flavours unique to Sanliurfa that will leave a mark on your palate:
Urfa Kebab (Sade Kebab): It is made from hand-pulled lamb meat with a special knife called armour. It is prepared without heat and usually served with roasted tomatoes, peppers and pita bread with nuts. It is a simple yet impressive kebab where the flavour of the meat itself is at the forefront.
Chilli Kebab (Urfa interpretation of Adana Kebab): It is also made of minced meat, but a spicy flavour is obtained by adding local chilli pepper (isot) and other spices.
Liver Kebab: It is prepared by cutting the lamb liver into small pieces, marinating it with special spices, then stringing it on skewers and cooking it over a charcoal fire. This kebab is usually consumed as a breakfast dish and served with fresh mint, parsley, roasted onions and lemon.
Eggplant Kebab (Balcanli Kebab): One piece of eggplant and one piece of minced meat (in the form of meatballs) are placed on skewers and cooked in the embers. It offers the perfect harmony of the roasted taste of eggplant and the flavour of meat.
Onion Kebab (also known as Siverek Kebab): It is made by skewering and cooking small shallots and minced meat. The sweetness of the onion combines with the flavour of the meat and offers a different aroma.
Tomato Kebab (Tomato Minced Meat): Prepared by skewering tomato slices and minced meat. The juice of roasted tomatoes adds a distinct flavour to the meat.
Poppy Kebab: A type of kebab with a different flavour and texture, made by adding pounded poppy seeds to the minced meat.
Chicken Skewers and Wings: Delicious alternatives for those who do not like red meat.
Sac Tava: A hearty and delicious dish made by roasting lamb meat with tomatoes, peppers and spices on a sheet pan.
What to See in Sanliurfa in One Day?
If you have a day in Sanliurfa, a busy yet enjoyable route to explore this ancient city awaits you:
Activities in the Morning:
Göbeklitepe (Ground Zero of History): Begin your day with a visit to Göbeklitepe, one of the most significant discoveries in human history. Situated about 18 km from the city centre, this archaeological site will transport you back thousands of years, allowing you to witness the birth of civilisation. The T-shaped obelisks and the animal figures carved upon them provide important clues about the belief system and artistic expression of the period. To enhance your visit, consider joining guided tours.
Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum and Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum: After your visit to Göbeklitepe, return to the city centre and explore the Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum, one of the largest museums in Turkey. Here, you can view a diverse array of artefacts ranging from the Palaeolithic Age to the Islamic period and examine the finds from significant excavation sites such as Göbeklitepe and Nevali Çori. The Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum, located adjacent to the museum, is renowned for its unique mosaics depicting hunting scenes of Amazon women.
Activities in the Noon
Lunch Break (Local Dishes): You cannot miss the rich cuisine of Sanliurfa! For lunch, choose one of the restaurants in the historical bazaar or around Balıklıgöl. Must-try dishes include Urfa kebab, liver kebab, eggplant kebab, lahmacun, stuffed meatballs, and bostana salad.
Activities in the Afternoon
Balıklıgöl (Halil-ür Rahman Lake) and Aynzeliha Lake: Balıklıgöl, regarded as the heart of Sanliurfa, is one of the city's most important symbols. According to legend, the carp inhabiting this lake, where Abraham was cast into the fire, are considered sacred and cannot be consumed. You can wander amidst the mystical atmosphere of the lake, feed the fish and visit historic buildings such as Halil-ür Rahman Mosque and Rızvaniye Mosque. Nearby Aynzeliha Lake is also a legendary site, believed to have been formed from the tears of Zeliha, the daughter of Nimrod. The cave where Abraham is thought to have been born is also located on this plateau.
Urfa Castle: Perched on a hill overlooking the Balıklıgöl plateau, Urfa Castle offers a panoramic view of the city. You can explore the ruins of the castle, which dates back to the Roman period, and capture unique photographs.
Gümrük Inn and Historical Bazaars: In the afternoon, take a break at the Gümrük Inn, which retains its historical character, and enjoy traditional mırra or tea. Afterwards, stroll through the historical bazaars, such as the Grand Bazaar and Sipahi Bazaar, to purchase local products, spices, handicrafts and souvenirs. Telkâri silver embroidery and isot are among the most popular souvenirs.
Activities in the Evening
Dinner and Sıra Night (Optional): To conclude your experience in Sanliurfa, consider attending a Sıra Night. This traditional entertainment, where delectable food (especially the renowned raw meatballs) is served alongside local music, promises an unforgettable evening. Alternatively, enjoy local delicacies at one of the many restaurants throughout the city.
Sanliurfa is a city that captivates with its historical and cultural richness, as well as its warm-hearted people and unique atmosphere. Although it is challenging to experience all it has to offer in one day, with careful planning, you can feel the spirit of this ancient city and leave with unforgettable memories. Sanliurfa is waiting for you to explore the land of the prophets, embark on a journey through history, and indulge your palate!
Source: Urfa Sıra Gecesi