Harran, Ancient district in Şanlıurfa Province, Turkey.
Harran is a district in Şanlıurfa Province, Turkey, spreading across wide sections of the Mesopotamian plain. The settlement includes several villages with traditional mud structures and archaeological excavation sites scattered throughout the administrative area.
The settlement began as a Sumerian trading colony and later developed into an important center under Assyrian and Roman rule. The site was also a major hub during the Byzantine Empire and the Islamic conquests.
The traditional beehive houses stand close together forming small settlements across the flat Mesopotamian plain. Local families have used these mud structures for centuries as living spaces, with thick walls keeping interiors cool in summer and warm in winter.
Visiting suits travelers interested in exploring archaeological sites and traditional architecture. Most areas are accessible on foot, though some excavation sites lie on open ground.
Underground chambers at Sumurtar served the Sabian community for religious ceremonies until the 11th century. These rooms lie away from main paths and are often overlooked by visitors.
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