Faki Teyran Madrasa is a small mosque in Damlarca Village, Güçlükonak district of Şırnak, overlooking the Tigris valley, attributed to the 16th-17th century Sufi poet Faki Teyran; entry is free.
A small mosque stands within the borders of Damlarca Village, on the Güçlükonak-Cizre highway. Locals know it as Faki Teyran Madrasa. Faki Teyran's real name was Muhammed, from Bahçesaray (Müküs) district of Van. His tomb is located in a grove in Kartal (Verezûz) village, which is now part of Bahçesaray. The word "Faki" means madrasa student; over time, the epithet "Teyran" (birds) was added to his name due to the legend that he spoke with birds. Based on evaluations of the language and themes of his poems, he is believed to have lived between 1550-1690, but there is no date on his tombstone.
He is known to have been a contemporary of the scholar Molla Ahmed-i Ciziri from Cizre and to have co-authored poems such as "Mela u Faki." Due to this relationship, it is said that he stayed in Cizre for a while and always maintained his connection with the region. The structure is located in the Finik region, which overlooks the Tigris valley, on the west bank of a stream descending from the rocks directly behind it. A flat area was created along the stream with retaining walls, and the mosque is located to the north of this area. There are various ruins and caves on the slopes.
Visitor comments frequently mention that the structure is neglected. Some use the term "ruin," and there are complaints about treasure hunters digging around. In contrast, there are also comments praising the surrounding natural scenery and caves, recommending a visit in spring. The expectation of restoration is a common point highlighted in the comments.
Guide's Note
Best time to visit
Spring is recommended in the comments. In summer, the heat becomes tiring, especially when climbing the hill. One visitor noted that the climb was challenging even in spring. Access to the region in winter may be difficult depending on weather conditions. Autumn is also a sensible option due to its mild weather.
How to get there
The structure is located on the Güçlükonak-Cizre highway. It is 70 km from Şırnak city center and 27 km from Güçlükonak district center, accessible by road. The distance is shorter for those coming from Cizre. Some visitors state that it is on the same route as Timur's Claws and Elo Dino Mansion, 35 km from Cizre. Going by your own vehicle is the most practical way, as there is no regular public transport line in the region.
How much time to allocate
The structure itself is small. 30-45 minutes is sufficient to visit the mosque and take a short tour of the surrounding slopes and caves. One comment says, "go up a bit, there are dozens of caves." If you have time, allocate extra time for this slope walk.
Other stops in the vicinity
Those who visit the region usually combine this mosque with other historical sites around Cizre. Timur's Claws rock formations are on the same route. Elo Dino Mansion, 35 km from Cizre, can also be visited on a similar route. If you are passing through Güçlükonak, it is also possible to visit other historical remains in the district center.
Things to know
The structure is registered as a cultural asset but is unrestored. Most comments mention neglect and damage caused by treasure hunters. One visitor wrote that the structure is in a "ruined" state and urgently needs protection. Therefore, go for its history and scenery, without expecting a magnificent structure. The terrain is rugged, sturdy shoes are required.
Good spots for photos
The stream and rocky slope behind the mosque offer a wide view overlooking the Tigris valley. Shots taken from the mouths of the caves on the slope are also interesting. One comment states that the surrounding natural area is more impressive than the mosque itself. The soft light before noon shows the stone texture more clearly.
Who is Faki Teyran
Faki Teyran, whose real name was Muhammed, was from Bahçesaray (Müküs) district of Van. He is considered one of the important figures of Kurdish Sufi folk literature. He was known by the nickname "Teyran" (birds) due to the legend that he spoke with birds. He is known to have been a contemporary of the scholar Molla Ahmed-i Ciziri from Cizre and to have co-authored poems such as "Mela u Faki." His tomb is located in a grove in Kartal (Verezûz) village, which is part of Bahçesaray.
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