Midyat

Midyat is a district town in Mardin Province, east of Mardin city. It has two parts: the old town, built of local limestone, and the newer Estel, about 3 km to the west.

Many old-town houses from the 19th and early 20th centuries have finely carved stone façades. Bell towers of Syriac churches rise above the flat roofs. The three-storey Midyat Guest House (Konukevi) stands on the highest point, and its roof overlooks the town. Silver filigree, called telkari, is made and sold here, and the town centre has a Telkari Museum. The Mor Gabriel Monastery, founded in 397, lies about 23 km to the southeast and still serves the Syriac Orthodox community. Visits there are guided by the monastery.

Minibuses (dolmuş) from Mardin take just over an hour. The old town is compact and walkable, with an uphill walk to the Guest House. Mor Gabriel is easiest by car or taxi. Check visiting hours before you go.