Church of the Forty Martyrs (Mor Behnam)

History

Founded in 569 in the name of Mor Behnam and Mor Sara. In 1170 the relics of forty martyrs were brought here, and the church has been known by their name ever since. It is one of the central churches of Mardin's Syriac Orthodox community.

Why go

The interior is remarkable for its carved wooden iconostasis and three altars. The Syriac inscriptions on the walls are the living trace of Aramaic, spoken in this region for two thousand years. The church is still in use; hymns at Sunday liturgy are sung in Syriac.

Visiting notes

You enter through a small door invisible from the street, where a member of the congregation will meet you. Visits are possible outside liturgy hours and entry is free, though a contribution to the donation box is courteous. Keep quiet, and ask before photographing.

Getting there

In one of the narrow streets north of the bazaar. About 6 minutes from the mansion; signs are few, so don't hesitate to ask.