Tarsus, Archaeological site and district capital in Mersin Province, Turkey.
Tarsus is an ancient settlement and present-day district capital in Turkey's Mersin Province, spreading about 25 kilometers inland from the sea. The town sits in a fertile plain between the coast and the Taurus Mountains, where residential neighborhoods stand beside archaeological excavation sites.
The settlement reaches back more than 6000 years and experienced its peak as the capital of the Roman province of Cilicia. Later, the town became the birthplace of the apostle Paul and retained its strategic importance along trade routes between Anatolia and the Levant.
The settlement takes its name from the mythical figure Tarsos and was once nicknamed "city of scholars" due to its many philosophy schools. Today, remains of ancient street paving and columns recall that era, while locals visit the modern bazaar near the historical ruins.
The Mediterranean climate brings hot summers and mild winters, with spring considered the most comfortable season to visit. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, as many sites are spread across town and can be reached on foot.
The Berdan River runs through the center and supplies water to extensive fruit orchards and cotton fields in the surroundings. Along its banks stand old stone bridges still crossed by locals, while fishermen spread their nets along the riverbank.
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