Deyrulzafaran Monastery

Deyrulzafaran Monastery, near Mardin, is one of the most important historical centers of the Syriac Orthodox tradition. The complex acquired its present appearance through structures added during different periods from the fifth century onward, and preserves a multilayered history with its churches, courtyards and lower section associated with an ancient sun temple. The monastery served for many years as the center of the Syriac Patriarchate and continues to function as a living religious center today.