Mor Gabriel Monastery, Syrian Orthodox monastery in Midyat, Turkey.
Mor Gabriel Monastery is a Syrian Orthodox monastery in Midyat, Turkey, featuring a main church with geometric patterns and the Dome of Theodora. The complex includes multiple rooms dedicated to monastic life, arranged to show how monks lived and worshipped together.
The monastery was founded in 397 and grew over centuries through periods of religious and architectural development. Its growth reflects the long history of the Syrian Orthodox Church in this region.
The monastery maintains a school where students learn Syriac, an ancient language still used in religious services today. This learning space shows how the community keeps its spiritual traditions alive through education.
The monastery is located south of Midyat and is reachable by taxi or minibus from the main road toward Cizre. Visitors should wear respectful clothing and keep in mind this is an active place of prayer.
Underground beneath the monastery lies the Church of 40 Martyrs, housing tombs of monks killed during invasions. This hidden chamber serves as a quiet memorial to hardships the community has endured.
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