Dunaysır Grand Mosque is an active mosque in Kızıltepe, built in the 12th century by Artuqid Sultans Yavlak Aslan and Artuk Aslan, known for its mihrab adorned with carved stone inscriptions and its dome with squinches.
Dunaysır Grand Mosque stands in the center of Kızıltepe (formerly Dunaysır). Its construction was started by Artuqid Sultan Yavlak Aslan between 1184-1200, and its completion fell to his brother Artuk Aslan (1200-1239). Thus, the mosque is not the work of a single ruler, but a joint masterpiece of two brothers from a dynasty.
The most striking feature of the structure is the dome with squinches, 9.75 meters in diameter, extending over two naves in front of the mihrab. The three-nave plan parallel to the qibla wall is a common arrangement in Artuqid mosque architecture of the period. Inside, the mihrab and walls are adorned with elegant carved stone inscriptions. These details are the most original aspect of the mosque and have been largely preserved to this day.
The structure was taken into restoration by the Diyarbakır Regional Directorate of Foundations in 2015, completed in 2019, and reopened for worship. This mosque, with a history of approximately 815 years, is still actively used. When you visit, you are entering a place of worship that continues its function, not a museum.
Guide's Note
When to Visit
Summer months in the Mardin region are quite hot. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are more comfortable for both sightseeing and photography. Since the mosque is an active place of worship, visiting outside prayer times is more suitable for both you and the congregation. It can be crowded on Friday afternoons.
How to Get There
The mosque is located in the Kızıltepe district, not Mardin city center. There are frequent city bus and minibus services from Mardin to Kızıltepe, and the journey takes approximately 20-25 minutes. After getting off in Kızıltepe center, you can reach the Koçhisar neighborhood by walking or a short taxi ride. If you are going by your own car, aim for the vicinity of Daylan Secondary School; the mosque is right in front of it.
Other Places to See in Kızıltepe
If you go to Kızıltepe, don't limit yourself to just this mosque. There are other historical structures in the district center, and Dunaysır Bridge (over the Zergan Stream, Kızıltepe-Derik road) is also worth seeing. On your return to Mardin center, you can complete your day with other Artuqid-era works such as the Grand Mosque, Kasımiye Madrasa, and Zinciriye Madrasa.
How Much Time to Allocate
20-30 minutes is sufficient for the mosque itself. But if you add the surrounding historical sites while in Kızıltepe, you can easily dedicate half a day to this district. It can be considered a day trip from Mardin city center.
Suggested Itinerary
Visiting the historical structures in Mardin city center (Grand Mosque, Kasımiye Madrasa, Zinciriye Madrasa) in the morning and then moving to Kızıltepe in the afternoon is a logical plan. After seeing Dunaysır Grand Mosque, you can complete your day by stopping by Dunaysır Bridge.
Things to Pay Attention To
As it is an active mosque, pay attention to the rules of removing shoes and appropriate clothing upon entry. It would be beneficial for women to have a headscarf. Be careful not to disturb the congregation when taking photos, especially during prayer times.
Good Spots for Photography
The inscription and carved writings in the mihrab niche are the most original details of the mosque. This part comes out clear when the light is good indoors. The stone craftsmanship at the entrance gate is also a suitable spot for outdoor shots. An upward angle from the inside of the dome provides a good shot showing the architecture.
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