Diyarbakir – Ancient Kurdish Capital & Turkey’s Hidden Treasure

With nearly one million residents, Diyarbakir stands as southeastern Turkey’s largest city and the unofficial capital of Kurdistan. Here, 5,000 years of history blend with modern life, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

Did you know? Ancient Amida – this city’s former identity – was a crucial Mesopotamian hub. Its strategic Tigris River location made it coveted by successive empires.

The Legendary Walls of Diyarbakir

The city’s most iconic landmarks are its Roman-era defensive walls, commissioned by Emperor Constantius II in the 4th century CE. These fortifications remain awe-inspiring in scale and preservation.

Mind-blowing fact: Stretching 6km, Diyarbakir’s black basalt walls rank as the world’s second-longest surviving fortifications after China’s Great Wall! Their distinctive appearance earns the city its “Black Pearl” nickname.

Close-up of Diyarbakir's iconic black basalt walls
The legendary basalt walls – Diyarbakir’s crown jewel

Note that some wall sections show their age – vegetation encroaches and repairs are needed. Exercise caution when exploring less-visited areas where local youth sometimes interact with tourists.

A View That Steals Your Breath

Climbing the walls (at designated safe points!) rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city and winding Tigris River. Sunset transforms the ancient stones into golden masterpieces – prime photography time.

Local tip: Recharge at traditional tea houses sipping Turkish çay or Kurdish coffee spiced with cardamom after exploring.

Charming alleyways in Diyarbakir's old town
Timeless beauty in the old quarter’s narrow lanes

Diyarbakir’s Architectural Gems

The old town conceals extraordinary landmarks:

  • Ulu Cami – Among Turkey’s oldest mosques (7th century), built over St. Thomas Church with rare early Islamic art in its courtyard.
  • Keldani Kilisesi – A 17th-century Chaldean church reflecting the city’s multicultural past.
  • Meryem Ana Kilisesi – Active Syriac Orthodox church where families maintain ancient Christian traditions.
  • Hasanpasa Hani – 16th-century caravanserai still welcoming travelers as during Silk Road days.

Don’t miss the Archaeological Museum showcasing regional artifacts including cuneiform tablets.

Vibrant street scene in Diyarbakir
Diyarbakir’s living history

The Old Town’s Magic

Diyarbakir’s true charm reveals itself wandering aimlessly through the old quarter’s alleys. The aroma of fresh coffee, colorful spice stalls, woven tapestries, and multilingual chatter create an unforgettable ambiance.

Culinary highlight: Savor local specialties like kaburga (stuffed lamb’s head) or the famous kadayıf pastry.

Diyarbakir is essential for any traveler exploring southeastern Turkey – a city where history lives in every stone and every smile.