Private 5-Day Tour: Mesopotamia and Göbekli Tepe
Duration
2 Days
Type
Private
Category
Turkey Package Tours
2-5 Days Tours
Eastern Turkey Tours
Location
Eastern Turkiye
Overview
Highlights of the Private 5-Day Tour: Mesopotamia and Göbekli Tepe
- Göbekli Tepe
- Şanlıurfa
- Harran
Mesopotamia: The Cradle of Civilization
Situated between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, Mesopotamia was home to some of the most ancient and influential civilizations in human history. The Sumerians and Akkadians thrived here, laying the foundations for cities and cultures that shaped the course of history.
Mardin: A Cultural Mosaic
Mardin is one of Mesopotamia’s most enchanting cities, a true crossroads of cultures, religions, and civilizations. Over millennia, it has been shaped by Sumerians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, and many others. Its rich heritage is reflected in the harmony of its Assyrian, Jewish, Christian, and Muslim communities.
Walking along Mardin’s cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a living museum. Highlights include the Grand Mosque of Mardin, the Kasimiye Madrasa, the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, and the ancient city of Dara. Nearby, the towns of Nusaybin and Midyat add to the region’s charm with their distinctive history and architecture.
Göbekli Tepe: The World’s Oldest Temple
The ruins of Göbekli Tepe are located near Şanlıurfa. At 12,000 years old, it is an archaeological marvel recognized as the world’s oldest known temple. Its towering T-shaped limestone pillars, adorned with intricate carvings of animals and mysterious symbols, highlight its significance as a site for rituals and communal gatherings.
Predating the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge, Göbekli Tepe marks a turning point in human history, earning the nickname "Zero Point in Time." A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a glimpse into humanity's earliest cultural and spiritual expressions.
The 5-Day Tour of Mesopotamia, including Mardin and Göbekli Tepe, invites travelers to explore the heart of ancient civilizations and uncover the roots of human culture. Together, they promise an unforgettable journey through the depths of history and the origins of civilization.
Itinerary
- We will pick you up from your hotel in Istanbul and take you to the airport for your flight to Mardin.
- Upon your arrival at Mardin Airport, we will meet you and transfer you to the city center. Mardin is renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. We will stroll through its charming limestone streets, admire its majestic mansions and stone houses, and visit the iconic Grand Mosque.
- In the afternoon, we will explore the historic Kasimiye Madrasa before heading to your hotel for an overnight stay in Mardin.
Breakfast
-
After breakfast, we will visit the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, built on the remains of an ancient solar temple. This historic site, dating back to the 5th century, once served as the spiritual center of the Syrian Orthodox Church. During the visit, you’ll explore the main chapel, the crypt, the old chapel, and the cellar—remnants of the ancient solar temple that once stood here.
-
Next, we will head to Dara, an ancient Assyrian city later reconstructed by Roman emperors. We’ll explore the ruins of Dara, including the cemetery, water cisterns, fortification walls, and the Agora Church.
-
From there, we will proceed to Nusaybin (Nisibis), which was once a key commercial hub. After exploring the city, we will visit the Church of Saint Jacob.
-
We will pause for lunch by the Beyazsu River, enjoying the scenic surroundings, before continuing to Midyat.Midyat is a charming town full of character. We’ll stroll through its streets, soaking in the local culture and atmosphere.
-
At the end of the tour, we will return you to your hotel in Mardin.
Breakfast
-
After breakfast, we will head to Şanlıurfa to visit the world-renowned archaeological site of Göbekli Tepe. Known as the oldest temple on Earth, this awe-inspiring site predates the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time as you explore this remarkable sanctuary, which is over 12,000 years old.
-
Next, we will continue to Şanlıurfa, where you will visit the Archaeology Museum and the Mosaic Museum, delving deeper into the region's rich history.
-
We will then visit Balıklıgöl (the Pool of Sacred Fish), a holy site associated with the birth of the Prophet Abraham.
-
You’ll have some free time to explore the city at your own pace.
-
At the end of the tour, we will transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay in Şanlıurfa.
Breakfast
-
After breakfast, we will head to Adıyaman to visit the magnificent Mount Nemrut. At the summit, you will marvel at the mausoleum of Antiochus I of Commagene, a temple-tomb dedicated to the gods.
-
Admire the awe-inspiring statues of the Kingdom of Commagene and enjoy the panoramic views from this 2,200-meter-high mountain.
-
Next, we will proceed to Kahta to explore the ancient city of Arsemia, the impressive Roman Bridge of Cendere, and the Royal Tomb of Karakuş.
-
Finally, we will continue to Gaziantep, where we will spend the night.
Breakfast
-
After breakfast, we will head to Antakya.
-
Our first stop will be the Antakya Archaeology Museum, renowned for its impressive collection of mosaics from the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
-
Next, you will have time to explore the historic Church of Saint Peter, a significant site in early Christian history.
-
Afterward, we will transfer you to the airport for your return to Istanbul. We will meet and take you back to your hotel upon your arrival.
Included/Excluded
All transportation with air-conditioned, modern vehicles driven by a professional driver
English Speaking Professional Tour Guide
Entrance fees to the sites
4 nights accommodation at a 4* hotel including breakfast
Domestic Flight Tickets
Meals not mentioned at the itinerary
Personal Expenses and tips
Anything not mentioned above
Type
Private
Category
Turkey Package Tours
2-5 Days Tours
Eastern Turkey Tours
Location
Eastern Turkiye
Tour Location
Ask for price
You might also like
from
$0
Get Updates & More
Thoughtful thoughts to your inbox
