Harran, Ancient district in Şanlıurfa Province, Turkey.
Description
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.
History
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.
Culture
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.
Practical
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.
Did you know?
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.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Parthian Empire).
Karahan Tepe
34.8 km
Haran
17.2 km
Sultantepe
22.6 kmSumatar Harabesi
31 km
Tek Tek Mountains National Park
23 kmHoutat Sulūk
43.9 kmHarbetsuvan Tepesi
28.3 kmTall Zaydah
55 kmTell Jidle
24.5 kmTall `Abd Allah
31.2 kmTall Saluq
33.4 kmBaqq Barurah
29.2 kmTall Jadlah
24.5 kmTall Mirak
30.7 kmSharat `Aflah
41.8 kmTall Aswad
32.5 kmTall ‘Āshiq
23.4 kmTall Khaliji
29.9 kmTall `Urqubah
33.1 kmTell es-Sahlan
31.9 kmBeşmağralar
56.5 kmOyma Mağara
18.4 kmMahbura Mağarası
20.9 kmBazda Cave
18 kmKoruklu
9.7 kmSumatar Ruins
31.1 kmتل ضهر الشويرة
49 kmدوار العلم
22.3 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes