Harran
An ancient city of beehive houses and the first university
Image credit: Zhengan, CC BY-SA 4.0
About
South of Şanlıurfa, close to the Syrian border, Harran is one of the world's oldest settlements and an ancient city famed for its distinctive conical-domed mud houses. With a history of thousands of years, its name appears even in the holy scriptures. The "beehive houses" (domed houses), built of adobe and providing coolness against the hot climate, give Harran a unique and photogenic appearance. The ruins of the ancient University of Harran shed light on the history of science as one of the world's first universities; the city's mound, castle and Grand Mosque bear the traces of different civilisations. In the hot, arid geography of the Mesopotamian plain, where history and tradition are intertwined, Harran is a must-see stop that turns a Şanlıurfa visit into an incomparable journey through time.
History
Harran's history dates to around 3000 BC; in antiquity it was the centre of the cult of the moon god Sin and an important city of trade and science. One of the world's first universities was founded here. The beehive-house tradition has continued for centuries.
Visiting Tips
- ✓Visit the beehive houses and step inside
- ✓See the ancient university and mound ruins
- ✓It is very hot — go early in the morning
- ✓A hat, water and sun protection are essential
- ✓About a 45-minute drive from central Şanlıurfa
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Harran?
Harran is located at Harran, Şanlıurfa in Şanlıurfa.
When is the best time to visit Harran?
Recommended time: March – May and October – November.
