Discover St. George's Church, an intriguing historic monument set within the citadel of Diyarbakır's ancient, walled Sur district. If you are fascinated by layered history and architectural mysteries, this brick and stone landmark is a compelling stop on your journey through Turkey.
Scholars continue to debate the building's original purpose: theories range from a 4th-century Nestorian church later converted into a mosque or bathhouse, to an early Islamic or Artuqid palace, and even a site used as a storage space and prison in later years. When you visit, you will explore a complex divided into two large rectangular chambers, each designed around an oval dome. In the spacious western chamber, admire the eight standing stone piers, high arches forming iwans and squinches, and delicate muqarnas stonework mirroring the city's Artuqid towers.
The eastern chamber showcases a central dome supported by piers incorporating large columns, side aisles, and a projecting vaulted room with large windows at its far eastern end. Having undergone restorations—including efforts to transform it into an exhibition hall for the Museum of Diyarbakır—this remarkable site offers you a unique window into Diyarbakır's rich, multifaceted heritage.
What to see at Saint George Church
- Historic monument located inside the citadel of Diyarbakır's walled Sur district
- Brick and stone architecture featuring two large domed rectangular chambers
- Intricate muqarnas stonework on squinches and shallow pendentives
- Western chamber with eight standing stone piers, high arches, and iwans
- Eastern chamber displaying large integrated columns and side aisles
Visiting tips
Take time to closely inspect the squinches and pendentives in both chambers to see muqarnas stonework reminiscent of Diyarbakır's Artuqid city towers.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Saint George Church is easy to reach on Diyarbakır’s public transport, and pairs naturally with St. Giragos Armenian Church and Şeyh Muhtar Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Diyarbakır travel guide.
See the full Diyarbakır travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.