Dara, Archaeological site in Mardin Province, Turkey
The fortress city features extensive stone walls stretching 4 kilometers with defensive towers and deep trenches surrounding the ancient settlement.
Emperor Anastasius I established Dara in 505 AD as a military stronghold, gathering workers from across Mesopotamia to construct the fortified city.
The rock-cut tombs within Dara combine both pagan and Christian elements, displaying multiple burial chambers carved directly into the bedrock.
Located 30 kilometers southeast of Mardin, the archaeological site remains partially excavated with only 10 percent of structures uncovered.
The ancient water system includes massive underground cisterns that collected mountain water, enabling the city to withstand extended siege periods.
Location: Artuklu
Inception: 505
Address: Mardin Nusaybin Karayolu üzeri 47000 Mardin
GPS coordinates: 37.18139,40.95358
Latest update: May 27, 2025 11:36
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