Southeastern Anatolia Region of Türkiye

Southeastern Anatolia, Türkiye’s smallest region by land area (75,000 km² or 28,960 mi²), is one of the richest in ancient heritage, diverse cultures, and unique geography. Nestled between the Taurus Mountains and the vast plains of Upper Mesopotamia, this land holds thousands of years of history—where civilizations rose, empires collided, and stories still echo from ancient stones.

The region is home to some of the most important archaeological discoveries in the world. Göbeklitepe, near Şanlıurfa, is the oldest known temple complex ever discovered, reshaping our understanding of human civilization. Nearby, Karahantepe continues to reveal new Neolithic secrets. Mount Nemrut, with its colossal stone heads, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws travelers with its mystical sunrise views.

Cities like Gaziantep, famous for its pistachio-laced baklava and rich culinary heritage, and Diyarbakır, surrounded by black basalt walls dating back to antiquity, reflect the region’s dynamic spirit. Mardin, with its terraced stone houses, offers panoramic views over the Mesopotamian plains, blending Arabic, Kurdish, Assyrian, and Turkish influences.

The region is also being transformed by the GAP Project (Southeastern Anatolia Project), a massive initiative bringing new life to agriculture, energy, and irrigation. Rivers like the Euphrates and Tigris nourish the land, while ancient sites like Harran, Zeugma, Hasankeyf, and Dara transport visitors to biblical and imperial times.

From oil fields in Batman to the vibrant bazaars of Şanlıurfa, Southeastern Anatolia offers more than a travel destination—it offers an immersion into history, culture, and a unique Anatolian lifestyle distinct from anywhere else in the country.

️ Provinces (Cities)

Adıyaman, Batman, Diyarbakır, Gaziantep, Kilis, Mardin, Şanlıurfa, Siirt, Şırnak

️ Attractions & Natural Sights

• Mount Nemrut (Adıyaman)

• Halfeti (Şanlıurfa)

• Malabadi Bridge (Diyarbakır)

• Euphrates & Tigris Rivers

• GAP Dam Lakes (Atatürk Dam)

• Dicle Bridge (Diyarbakır)

️ Ancient Cities & Archaeological Sites

• Göbeklitepe (Şanlıurfa)

• Karahantepe (Şanlıurfa)

• Harran (Şanlıurfa)

• Commagene Kingdom Sites (Adıyaman)

• Dara Ancient City (Mardin)

• Hasankeyf (Batman)

• Perre (Adıyaman)

• Zerzevan Castle (Diyarbakır)

• Zeugma Mosaic City (Gaziantep)

• Yesemek Sculpture Workshop (Gaziantep)

️ Museums

• Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum

• Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum

• Mardin Museum

• Diyarbakır Archaeological Museum

• Adıyaman Museum

• Batman Museum

️ Districts of Note

• Harran (Şanlıurfa)

• Midyat (Mardin)

• Sur (Diyarbakır)

• Birecik (Şanlıurfa)

• Kızıltepe (Mardin)