Blog
Vineyard tradition, Syriac culture, the stone and seasons of Midyat.
The monasteries and churches of Tur Abdin: from Mor Gabriel to Deyrulzafaran
Mor Gabriel, Mor Yakup, Mor Loozor, Mor Abay and Deyrulzafaran on the UNESCO Tentative List, and the ancient churches of Anıtlı (Hah), Bağlarbaşı and Altıntaş. Their history, architecture, distance from Midyat and a two day route.
Things to do in Midyat: from stone streets to ancient monasteries
From the Guesthouse to the silversmiths’ bazaar, from historic churches to Mor Gabriel: the places you should not miss in Midyat, plus how to get there, the best season and practical tips.
The grape harvest in Tur Abdin: from vineyard to cauldron, from cauldron to winter
From July to mid-October, the vineyards, vineyard houses and rooftops of Midyat fill with a whole year’s work. From twenty-two local grape varieties to grape molasses, fruit leather and walnut sucuk: the vineyard tradition of Tur Abdin.
Mor Gabriel Monastery: the 1,600-year-old heart of Tur Abdin
Founded in AD 397, Mor Gabriel is the oldest surviving Syriac Orthodox monastery in the world. From its vine mosaics on a gold ground to its 17-metre dome, it is the living memory of Tur Abdin.
Midyat filigree: lace made of silver
In telkari, hair-thin silver wires are patiently twisted into patterns. For centuries this craft has lived in the hands of Syriac master silversmiths, and it is Midyat’s best-known art.
The stone houses of Midyat and their master carvers
Yellow limestone that leaves the quarry soft and hardens over time, inward-looking courtyards, cool iwans and façades carved like lace: the architecture of Midyat’s houses.