- 23. April 2024
- Şanlıurfa İnfo
Last
weekend, I embarked on an exploration filled with history and culture: the
district of Harran in Şanlıurfa. This historical area, which I had wanted to
visit ever since I first heard its name, is known for its unique architectural
structures and traces of an ancient civilization.
Upon my
arrival in Harran, the first thing that caught my attention was the famous
Harran houses, distinguished by their conical roofs. These houses offer a
highly effective natural air conditioning system. The walls are made of thick
mudbrick, and the roofs of straw. These materials ensure the houses remain cool
in summer and warm in winter. The unique architecture of Harran houses seemed
to me a symbol of the region's adaptation to both its historical context and
challenging climate conditions.
Stepping
inside the houses, I immediately felt the warmth and intimacy of the space. The
rooms are generally arranged around a courtyard, allowing family members to be
together yet maintain separate spaces. This courtyard also serves as the center
of the home's social life, where women cook, children play, and elders unwind
after the day.
Walking
the streets of Harran, I constantly felt a transition between past and present.
It seemed as if every corner held a story from ancient times. During my walk
towards the ruins of Harran University, I learned that it was the site of the
first university in the Islamic world. Just thinking about how science,
astronomy, and philosophy flourished in this land is awe-inspiring.
During
my visit, the hospitality and warmth of the local people were among the most
striking aspects. The people of Harran warmly welcomed visitors, sharing
information about their lifestyle and culture. I had the opportunity to taste
local dishes; eggplant and pepper stuffings, fresh yogurts, and spicy kebabs
were truly delicious.
Harran captivated me not only with its stunning history and
architecture but also through the rich cultural experiences it offered. The
most valuable aspect of this trip was discovering the beauty and simplicity of
a different way of life. Harran is indeed a place filled with mystery and
history that deserves to be explored.
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