Şanlıurfa, the city of legends, welcomes its visitors with a historical treasure at every corner. One of these treasures is the Kızılkoyun Necropolis, located within the Balıklıgöl (Fish Lake) plateau and boasting a history of 2,200 years. Meaning “City of the Dead”, the necropolis is a rock tomb complex used during the Roman period and is one of the most important historical sites in Şanlıurfa.
A Journey Through History
The history of the Kızılkoyun Necropolis dates back to the 300s BC. With a history of approximately 12,000 years, Şanlıurfa has been among the most important settlements since ancient times due to its proximity to trade routes and water resources. In 300 BC, Alexander the Great conquered the city and his commander, Seleucus I, changed the city’s name to Edessa, meaning “Abundant Water”. The Kızılkoyun Necropolis is one of the important ruins located in this ancient city center of Edessa.
The Mystery of the Rock Tombs
The necropolis consists of hundreds of rock tombs carved into the rocks. These tombs are adorned with figures and reliefs reflecting the beliefs and lifestyles of the people of that period. The entrances to the tombs are usually round or rectangular, and some tombs have stairs.
Excavations and Restoration
The Kızılkoyun Necropolis was discovered in the early 20th century and excavations began in the 1990s. With the restoration work initiated in 2012 by the Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality in the 1st and 2nd phases, a total of 103 rock tombs were unearthed and opened to visitors.
Visiting and Lighting
The Kızılkoyun Necropolis is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Şanlıurfa today. With free admission, the necropolis can also be visited at night thanks to its lighting. Visitors can wander among these mysterious rock tombs, follow the traces of the ancient city of Edessa, and feel the atmosphere of that period.
What to See at the Kızılkoyun Necropolis
- Hundreds of rock tombs in different sizes and shapes
- Reliefs and figures at the tomb entrances
- Panoramic view of the ancient city of Edessa
- Illuminated walking paths
- Rest areas for visitors
How to Get to Kızılkoyun Necropolis
The Kızılkoyun Necropolis is approximately 5 km from the city center of Şanlıurfa. You can reach the necropolis by minibus, taxi or private vehicle.
Address: Yeni, Haleplibahçe Cd. No:115, 63210 Şanlıurfa City Center/Şanlıurfa
Be First to Comment