Diyarbakir: The architectural Shangri-la

Situated on the banks of the Tigris River, Diyarbakir is one of the largest cities in southeastern Turkey. The city has been hosting various civilizations and societies for centuries and like in many cities and regions, that history is reflected in its architecture. Diyarbakir’s Memory project, by the Diyarbakir Association for the Protection of Cultural and Natural Assets, offers viewers both the tangible and intangible cultural marvels of the city. The project aims to shine a light on the evolution of culture in the region and to provide more information on the history, architecture, and sociocultural roots of Diyarbakir. The exhibition offers visuals and information about the oldest settlements, architectural styles, and the impact of previous civilizations in the city. Because of its geographical location – atop the Karacadag plateau, surrounded by the Tigris River - this self-sufficient city has been a significant trade route connecting Asia to Anatolia through Mesopotamia. With a history of 6,000 years, Diyarbakir is one of the rare cities that has preserved its original settlement sites. Diyarbakir’s oldest settlement, Amida Hoyuk, was inhabited by various societies during the Chalcolithic, Bronze, and Iron ages. According to the first written sources, Alexander the Great and the Seleucid, Parthian, Armenian, Roman, and Sassanian empires all conquered the city. This multi-ethnic richness, including Turks, Kurds, and Arabs, is reflected in the architecture of Diyarbakir, as each dynasty ordered the construction of its own religious and commercial buildings. People from many ethnicities lived together in a city with unique architecture that harbors the style of many previous empires. Although many buildings were destroyed as a result of wars, natural disasters, and other factors, there are still a wide range of historical mosques, churches, synagogues, and Turkish baths. Similar to western churches, a wide courtyard situated in the middle of buildings was a popular design feature due to extreme heat during the summer. These trademark courtyards can be seen in various historical sites and buildings across the city, with façades facing these open areas, ornamented with symmetrically aligned doors and windows. Though similar, each door has unique geometric patterns. Drawings of figures were prohibited, but it is possible to run into various façades with drawings of animals because it was believed that these figures act as charms to protect the buildings. All these cultural, religious, and social changes have impacted the architecture of the city and made it what it is today. You can visit diyarbakirhafizasi.org for more information and exhibits.