A 1,500-year-old Syriac monastery east of the city

History

Also known as Mor Hananyo, the monastery was founded in 493. From 1160 until 1932 it served as the seat of the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate. Beneath the building lies a sun-oriented temple chamber thought to be far older than the monastery itself.

Why go

Its name means 'saffron monastery' — saffron is said to have been mixed into the mortar, and the stone really does hold a warm yellow tone. The monastery's printing press, among the first in Anatolia, has been preserved. From the courtyard the Mardin plain opens out in full.

Visiting notes

Visits are by guided tour and there is an entrance fee. Early morning or afternoon avoids liturgy hours. Clothing covering shoulders and knees is appreciated. Allow about an hour.