Anıtlı is Turkey’s best tourism village. One of the UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages 2025 is Anıtlı, a historical and cultural treasure trove. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has designated the ancient Anıtlı district in Midyat, in southeast Turkey’s Mardin province, as one of the “Best Tourism Villages 2025.” This distinction is anticipated to further accelerate the region’s expanding tourism momentum.
Anıtlı, which is roughly 30 kilometers from the Midyat district headquarters, was formally changed from a village to a neighbourhood by the 2012 Metropolitan Municipality Law. It has maintained its natural attractiveness and is home to fascinating historical sites despite this administrative upheaval.
Anıtlı, formerly known as “Hah,” is home to the Anıtlı Virgin Mary Church, which was constructed atop a 2,000-year-old monument, and the ruins of Mor Sobo Cathedral, which functioned as a metropolitan center for nine centuries following Mor Gabriel Monastery. These locations showcase the rich religious and cultural legacy of the region.
Anıtlı’s inclusion on the UNWTO list, which acknowledged 52 villages from 29 nations, was a result of its substantial potential for faith-based tourism. Officials believe the title will increase tourism in the area.
One of the most significant hubs for the Syriac community is Anıtlı, which is situated in the Tur Abdin district, according to Midyat Mayor Veysi Şahin, who spoke to Anadolu Agency (AA). According to him, the municipality started working with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2022, and by 2023, all the requirements for the village’s application had been fulfilled.
“Tourist numbers here are expected to rise significantly. Visitors from all over the world want to see Anıtlı first. We have completed major infrastructure and restoration projects and we are hopeful. Next season, we expect tourist numbers to exceed the 3.5 million visitors Midyat received in nine months this year. Anıtlı is now known not just in Mardin but worldwide. Along with domestic tourists, international visitors are increasingly interested. Midyat has become a shining star recognized not only in Türkiye but globally. We welcome everyone to visit,” Şahin said.
A destination to visit
Since winning the award, the town has become a tourist destination, according to Habip Doğan, the head of the Anıtlı Neighbourhood.
“While we always had regular visitors, the award has increased interest, and we believe it will continue to grow. Our village has preserved its natural environment and contains multicultural heritage sites. Historical landmarks like the Church of the Virgin Mary and the Mor Sobo Cathedral ruins, along with traditional stone houses, ensure visitors leave satisfied. These precious sites are truly worth seeing. This recognition is well-deserved,” Doğan said.
According to Zeynettin Mağat, a spokesperson of the tourism bureau, Midyat has gained more attention in recent years.
“Anıtlı is now among the world’s best tourism villages. As tourism professionals, we are very pleased. Midyat already receives significant interest and we believe Anıtlı will attract even more, especially international visitors. Reservations are already high. Next year, Anıtlı will be the shining star of tourism,” Mağat said.
Source: Daily Sabah
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