Sanliurfa Guide

Located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region, Şanlıurfa is one of the most prominent cities in Turkey. Situated near other tourist hotspots like Mardin and Gaziantep, Urfa, also known as the "City of Prophets," earned the title "Şanlı" (Glorious) during the War of Independence in recognition of its heroic contributions. The city’s rich cultural and historical significance is evident in every street and corner. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll encounter inns, bazaars, and architectural gems that transport you to another era.

The history of Şanlıurfa dates back to ancient times, with evidence of settlement as early as the Neolithic Period, around 9500 BCE. This was confirmed by a discovery made in 1997 by Dr. Bahattin Çelik, which revealed that the history of Urfa's city center stretches back to the Neolithic period. Urfa has been home to several significant civilizations throughout history, including the Akkadian, Sumerian, Babylonian, Hittite, Assyrian, Persian, Macedonian, Roman, and Byzantine empires. In 1094, it became part of the Seljuk Empire, later passing through the hands of various Turkish states, including the Ayyubids, Mamluks, and Timurids, and eventually joining the Ottoman Empire in 1516. After enduring occupation by the British and French in 1919, it was liberated on April 11, 1920. Following the establishment of the Republic, Urfa became a province in 1924.

Şanlıurfa is also the heart of the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP), a major development initiative aimed at boosting the region’s economy, and it holds a central position in the region’s ongoing growth and transformation. As one of the oldest settlements in Mesopotamia, Urfa has always held strategic importance due to its proximity to water sources and its position at the crossroads of trade routes. The city’s ancient name was Edessa, and while some believe the name Urfa derives from names like Vurhai, Orhai, or Ruhua, none of these have been definitively proven. In recognition of the city's heroic spirit during the War of Independence, Urfa was officially renamed Şanlıurfa in 1984.

The city is home to a rich cultural heritage, with sites such as Harran, the location of the first Islamic university, which is considered for inclusion in the World Cultural Heritage list. Şanlıurfa is known as the "Museum City" due to its historical buildings, including houses, streets, bazaars, inns, hammams, fountains, bridges, mosques, and the castle. It is often referred to as the "City of Prophets," as it is believed to be the birthplace or residence of several prophets, including Abraham, Job, Elijah, and Jacob. The imprints of the many civilizations that have ruled here over the centuries can be seen today in the city's ancient architecture and in museums like the Museum of Archaeology, the State Fine Arts Gallery, and other cultural institutions.

Şanlıurfa is a major cultural and tourism hub, welcoming thousands of tourists from both within Turkey and abroad throughout the year. To accommodate these visitors, there is a wide range of hotels and guesthouses in the city. These hotels typically range from city hotels and boutique hotels to guesthouses. Many are open year-round and are conveniently located near the city center and the famous Urfa Castle.

Some of the hotels in Şanlıurfa are designed to reflect the region's rich history and cultural heritage, with boutique hotels that capture the essence of traditional Urfa architecture. Others are built with a modern design, blending contemporary comfort with traditional style. These hotels often feature decor that reflects the city’s unique ambiance, with walls adorned with local motifs, while offering modern amenities such as contemporary bathrooms and state-of-the-art facilities.

In addition to their historical charm, Şanlıurfa's hotels offer all the modern comforts one might expect, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds stepping back in time while enjoying the conveniences of today. Whether you’re exploring the ancient streets or relaxing in a modern hotel, Şanlıurfa promises an unforgettable experience.