Tarsus Guide

Administratively, Tarsus is part of Mersin, but if you ask the locals, they will proudly say they are from Tarsus, not Mersin. While its importance has grown in recent years in terms of tourism, the true value of Tarsus is still not fully recognized.

With a history of over 5,000 years, Tarsus has always been a prominent and attractive location due to its strategic position. It offers a perfect blend of the fresh, oxygen-rich air of the Taurus Mountains and the warmth of the Mediterranean sun, along with the warm hospitality of its people, inviting visitors to explore its charm.

The people of Mersin, and especially Tarsus, are known for their exceptional hospitality. Being part of a region that significantly contributes to Turkey’s economy, they are well aware of the value of labor and human life, making them welcoming hosts. When you visit Tarsus, you’ll find yourself immersed in a tourism experience enriched with ancient traces of life and deep cultural values. We highly recommend visiting the historical sites of the Cilician Civilization, as Tarsus has long been a melting pot of different cultures in Anatolia. The city is a true meeting point of Eastern and Western traditions, offering countless historical landmarks such as the Tomb of Prophet Daniel, the Cave of the Seven Sleepers (Ashab-ı Kehf), the shrine of Bilal al-Habashi, and the historical figures of Saint Paul and Cleopatra. Additionally, a significant artifact of recent history, the Nusret Mine Ship, an important symbol of Turkish naval history, is also located within the borders of Tarsus.

The narrow streets lined with historic Tarsus houses, the Hellenistic-era Cleopatra Gate, and Saint Paul’s Well reveal that Tarsus was once a thriving port city. It was here, in 41 BCE, that Queen Cleopatra of Egypt and Roman General Mark Antony met for the first time. Cleopatra not only persuaded Antony to establish an empire in the East but also captivated his heart, inspiring one of the most famous love stories in history. Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra was based on this legendary encounter. Cleopatra’s entrance into the port of Tarsus aboard a ship with purple sails and a golden hull remains one of the most iconic scenes in English literature.

Saint Paul: A Key Figure in Christianity
According to some sources, Saint Paul is considered the true founder or first theologian of Christianity. Born into a wealthy Jewish family in Tarsus, Paul experienced a divine revelation during his journey to Damascus, which changed his life. He became the leader of Jesus' abandoned disciples and traveled extensively across Anatolia and Greece to spread the new faith. By separating Jesus' teachings from Judaism, Paul played a crucial role in transforming Christianity into a global religion.

For accommodation recommendations, you can check our Mersin Tarsus Hotels page.