The history of the Mersin region (Cilicia province) begins from the 7th millennium BC. In the 2nd millennium BC, the province was part of the Hittite kingdom under the name Cilicia. In 102 BC, Cilicia was conquered by Rome. From 84 BC, it was part of the Armenian Empire of Tigran the Great. In the Middle Ages, it was the object of a struggle between Byzantium, Arabs, and Seljuks. From 1080 to 1375, the Cilician Armenian state existed in Cilicia, later captured by the Mamluks. In 1515, it was conquered by the Ottoman Turks.
Ancient writers praised the fertility of the Cilician plain, which abundantly produced grapes, sesame, millet, wheat, and barley. The goats of Cilicia were also famous - probably of the same breed as the Angora goats. The province produced a lot of saffron, good raisin wine, the best hyssop, and pomegranates. Currently, Mersin is the main agricultural region of Turkey.
Here, one of the largest historical legacies in the world has been preserved. The Mersin region has hundreds of fortresses, palaces, temples, aqueducts, bas-reliefs, amphitheaters, thermae, thousands of dwellings, tombs, and burials. Most of the architectural monuments remain virtually intact for centuries.
Here you can see the ruins of the ancient cities of Pompeipolis, Tarsus (a large city compared to Babylon), Neopolis (at one time it was a million-strong city, on a par with Athens and Rome), Krikos, Kylandria, Seleucia and Anemurion; Cleopatra's Gate (where Cleopatra met Mark Antony); fortresses Anamur, Meydanjik, Kyz, Mut, Silifke; Alahan Monastery, Hoca Tekla Basilica; settlements Uzuncaburc, Akkale, Gozlukuile; Tarsus Mosque, Lal Agi Mosque; Mosaic Museums of the cities of Erdemli, Silifke, Tarsus and Narlykuyu, as well as the legendary mosaic 'Three Graces'.
Other ancient sanctuaries. Alahan Monastery - a touch of Byzantine heritage.
Surrounded by picturesque mountains, as if frozen in time, stands the Alahan Monastery, founded by the first Christians in the 5th century. This monument, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, opens its doors to everyone free of charge. Although time has not spared its walls, the surviving church and the ruins of tombs and hammam allow one to feel the spirit of early Christianity. You can learn more about the history and architecture of the monastery on our website at link.
Orthodox Church of Michael and Gabriel Archangels - an oasis of faith in the heart of Mersin.
In the very heart of Mersin, among the noisy streets and modern buildings, there is an oasis of silence and prayer - the Orthodox Church of Michael and Gabriel the Archangels. Built in 1870, it became a witness to the complex and multifaceted history of the city. Comfortable benches, free candles and a box for voluntary donations create a welcoming atmosphere. Of particular interest is the history of the bell tower: the original structure was demolished, and the one we see today was built later.
Other shrines of Mersin:
- Basilica No. 1 (V-IV centuries BC): a mysterious shrine found near the Dagpazarı church, whose purpose remains a mystery to historians.
- Daghapazary Church (IV century AD): a monument of late Roman architecture, located in the Mut district.
- Italian Catholic Church (1853-1898): built with the permission of Sultan Abdülmecid, the church reflects the multicultural character of Mersin.
- Hagia Sophia Mosque (1102): originally a Christian church, possibly dedicated to St. Paul or St. Sophia, today it is an active mosque.
- Church in the ruined Temple of Zeus (Selifke): a unique monument erected on the ruins of the ancient Temple of Zeus, symbolizing the change of eras and religions. A journey through the holy places of Mersin is not only an acquaintance with architectural masterpieces, but also an opportunity to touch the spirituality and history of this amazing region.
It will take several months to inspect all the architectural monuments in Mersin. The main architectural monuments are marked with brown road signs. There are guides in Turkish, English and German.
