Free 1-Day Trip Through Tarsus's Layered History

Tarsus, a district of Mersin, hosts significant stops for both Christian and Islamic history. This route, which you can fit into a single day, offers a journey from the footsteps of St. Paul to the vibrant Ottoman bazaars. Especially in the cool autumn, when the crowds have dispersed, getting lost in the streets of Tarsus is priceless.

St. Paul's Well

Hidden among old stone houses in the narrow streets of Tarsus, St. Paul's Well is an important stop for Christianity. Located in the courtyard of the house where St. Paul was born, this 18-meter-deep well is one of the places visited for faith tourism. Museum Pass holders can enter for free; otherwise, there is a 3 Euro entrance fee. The water from this well is believed to be healing, so visitors usually take a bottle of water with them.

St. Paul Memorial Museum

Right near St. Paul's Well is the St. Paul Memorial Museum, a church structure built by the Orthodox Arab-Greek Community in the 1850s. Its connection to St. Paul, who played an important role in the spread of Christianity in his birthplace of Tarsus, makes the structure even more special. Inside, wall carvings with Jesus motifs and historical stone artifacts in the garden attract attention. You can visit for free with a Museum Pass.

Kırkkaşık Bedesteni

A few minutes' walk from the St. Paul Memorial Museum, Kırkkaşık Bedesteni awaits you in the heart of Tarsus. This cut-stone structure from the Ottoman period is a living piece of history with its seven domes and twenty-one rooms. The spoon motifs on its exterior give it its name. Inside, you can find local products, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Especially basil sherbet is a favorite among visitors.

Tarsus Grand Mosque (Cami-i Nur)

Right next to Kırkkaşık Bedesteni, the Tarsus Grand Mosque is an Ottoman work built in 1579. Also known as Cami-i Nur, this place of worship houses the tombs of Prophet Seth, Lokman Hekim, and Abbasid Caliph Al-Ma'mun. Offering a peaceful atmosphere with its spacious courtyard, the mosque is an important part of Tarsus's religious and architectural heritage. Entrance is free.

Tarsus Museum

A short walk from the Tarsus Grand Mosque, the Tarsus Museum reveals the region's deep-rooted history. It is filled with over 2,000 archaeological artifacts, from Roman sarcophagi to Ottoman-era ethnographic works, and a rich coin collection. The building stands out with its architecture that blends old and new. The large mosaic at the entrance and the video shows provide detailed information about Tarsus's past. Museum Pass is valid.

Donuktaş

Moving a little away from Tarsus city center, you can go to Donuktaş in Tekke Mahallesi. This ancient temple ruin maintains its mystery as it has no inscriptions. Attracting travelers since the 18th century, this structure is one of the silent witnesses to Tarsus's multi-layered past. It can be visited for free. This calm and lesser-known spot is ideal for completing your day in a different atmosphere.

As you complete your trip in Tarsus, you can choose local restaurants around Kırkkaşık Bedesteni for lunch. Don't forget to try Tarsus's famous hummus and fellah meatballs. Walking is the best option for city transportation, but a short car ride may be necessary to get to Donuktaş. I wish you a pleasant trip to Tarsus in advance!

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