Tarsus

Tarsus, Turkey: A City of History, Religion, and Ancient Wonders

Location: Mersin Province, near Adana, southern Turkey
Famous for: Birthplace of St. Paul, ancient trade center, rich historical sites
Best for: History buffs, religious pilgrims, and cultural explorers

History of Tarsus

A City of Many Empires
Tarsus is one of Turkey’s most historically significant cities, with a 4,000-year-old history. It has been ruled by:

• The Hittites (1700-1200 BC) – A powerful Anatolian empire
• The Assyrians & Persians – Major trade and military outposts
• Alexander the Great (333 BC) – Rested in Tarsus before his conquest of Persia
• The Romans (67 BC-395 AD) – Became the capital of Cilicia Province under Augustus Caesar
• The Byzantines, Seljuks & Ottomans – Continued as a trade hub

St. Paul’s Birthplace
Tarsus is one of Christianity’s most sacred cities, as the birthplace of St. Paul the Apostle. His influence as one of Jesus’ most important disciples attracts religious pilgrims from around the world.

Top Attractions in Tarsus

St. Paul’s Well

• A sacred site believed to have healing properties
• Located near St. Paul’s House, attracting Christian pilgrims
• Water from the well is considered blessed and potable

Cleopatra’s Gate

• Where Cleopatra & Mark Antony met in 41 BC
• The last remaining Roman gate in the city
• Now located in the city center roundabout

Tarsus Waterfall

• A stunning cascading waterfall surrounded by restaurants & cafes
• The mist creates natural rainbows in the sunlight
• Great for cooling off during hot summers

Well Stone Cave (Taskuyu Cave)

• A mystical cave associated with St. Paul’s Well
• Located 10 km northwest of Tarsus
• A hidden gem for history lovers

Local Food & Specialties

• Tarsus Kebab – A spiced and grilled lamb dish
• Humuslu Bici Bici – A refreshing traditional dessert
• Linen bread (Yufka Ekmegi) – Reflects Tarsus’ ancient textile history
• Salgam (Fermented Turnip Juice) – A famous regional drink

How to Get to Tarsus?

By Air: Fly to Adana Sakirpasa Airport (ADA) (~40 min drive). Domestic & international flights from Istanbul, Ankara, and Europe

By Train: Adana-Tarsus-Mersin railway – A cheap and scenic route

By Bus: Buses from Mersin, Adana, and major Turkish cities

By Car: From Adana: 30 min drive (~27 km). From Mersin: 40 min drive (~45 km)

Why Visit Tarsus?

• One of Turkey’s most ancient cities with over 4,000 years of history
• Birthplace of St. Paul, making it a key Christian pilgrimage site
• Rich Roman & Hittite ruins, from Cleopatra’s Gate to ancient temples
• Stunning natural wonders like the Tarsus Waterfall & Taskuyu Cave
• Delicious traditional cuisine with unique local flavors

Tarsus is a must-visit destination for history lovers, religious travelers, and those seeking hidden gems in Turkey!