Departing from Van, we follow geographical passages along the way to reach the Mesopotamian plain. Upon arrival in Mardin, we settle into our boutique stone mansion in Old Mardin. In the afternoon, we will enjoy a pleasant walk among the Abbaras (arched passages) that connect the city, a touch of architectural genius. At sunset, we will relax with Syriac coffee at a point overlooking the Mesopotamian plain. For dinner, we will taste the special delicacies of Artuklu cuisine: Ikbebet and stuffed ribs.

In the morning, we visit the Deyrulzafaran Monastery, built in the 5th century AD and the religious center of the Syriac Orthodox Church. Afterwards, we move on to the ancient city of Dara, a strategic fortress on the border of the Sasanian and Byzantine empires; here we will explore the necropolises, water cisterns, and rock tombs. In the afternoon, we turn our route to the Kasimiye and Zinciriye Madrasahs, witnessing the Artuklu aesthetic where Islamic astronomy and medicine are carved into stone. At the end of the day, we will have free time in the Old Mardin Bazaar, where we can visit the workshops of filigree masters.

Leaving Mardin, we move on to Midyat, the pinnacle of stone carving. After visiting the Mor Gabriel Monastery, one of the oldest Syriac monasteries in the world, we will walk among the intricately carved stone houses of Midyat. Following our visit to the Midyat Guesthouse, we will have a shopping break at filigree workshops and begin our return journey to Van.

• Transportation and all transfers in luxury vehicles.
• 2 nights accommodation with breakfast in boutique stone mansions in Old Mardin.
• Professional regional guide service.
• 2 dinners at the hotel.
• Travel insurance during the tour.

• Lunches.
• Personal expenses and hotel extras.
• Museum and archaeological site entrance fees (Historical mansion entrance fees are not included).
As Rota Doğu Turizm,
we reserve the right to make changes to this program. You can contact us for detailed information and reservation requests.