History

Dara Ancient City is located in the village of Oğuz, 30 kilometers southeast of Mardin. It was established as a military garrison city in 505 AD during the reign of Emperor Anastasius to protect the borders of the Eastern Roman Empire. Dara, one of the most important settlements of Upper Mesopotamia, stands out with its structures carved into the rock that cover a wide area.

Structures

Dara Ancient City is surrounded by a 4-kilometer-long wall. The inner fortress is built on the flat part of a hill, 50 meters high, north of the city. The ruins of a church, palace, bazaar, dungeon, arsenal, and water dam can still be seen within the city. In addition, there are cave houses with historical significance dating back to the Late Roman Period around the village.

How to Get There

To reach Dara Ancient City, you first need to go to the city of Mardin. You can go to Oğuz Village by road from the city center of Mardin. You can reach Dara Ancient City by walking or by car from Oğuz Village.

My Personal Experience

When I visited Dara Ancient City, I was captivated by its enchanting atmosphere. This ancient city, which still carries the traces of history, impressed me with its unique architecture and breathtaking scenery. While wandering around Dara Ancient City, I enjoyed being immersed in history and feeling the past. Additionally, the cave houses in Dara were a very interesting experience for me.

Conclusion

Dara Ancient City is an important tourist destination in the Mardin region that must be visited. This ancient city, which attracts the interest of history and culture enthusiasts, offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its captivating structure and historical ruins.