The culture of Mardin bears the imprint of various antique civilizations flourishing in the area. Mardin has an enormous historical, cultural and architectural richness. It is apparent that this richness has the potential of contributing much to the development of the province and national tourism if mobilized and managed properly. Mardin enjoys a privileged status in the sense that it is able to make people live the past and to present what is old and valuable to present generations. Mardin's cultural diversity is further enriched by the deep-rooted culture of various communities including the oldest Christian community, the Suryani. Who can refuse to see a city of tolerance where ezan from mosques lives in brotherhood with church bells? It is a candidate for UNESCO's List of "Cities of World Heritage." Submitting, protecting and transferring cultural richness for the next generations require a big importance.

Kasımiye Medresse

It is just beneath the hill to the southwest of the town. Cut stones were used in its construction. The architectural style indicates that its construction started in Artuklu times and mostly finished.

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Deyrü'zaffaran Monastery

It is 5 km to the east of central Mardin, on slopes overlooking Mesopotamian plains.It is a distinguished structure, one of the few examples of still standing buildings reflecting the historical and religious features of the Suryani.

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Dara Ruins

The ruins are in the village of Oğuz, 30 km to the southeast of Mardin city center. Once one of the most important cities in antique Mesopotamia, the site now hosts a tiny village. It is also the location of the battle between Alexander the Great and Dara. The antique city was founded by Darayovasi, a Persian Ruler and later changed hands between the Persians and Romans.

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