Mardin: revival of historic 'Syriac Bazaar' to boost tourism and economy
After a year and a half of restoration work, the more than 400-year-old historic bazaar with 65 businesses reopens in the Dargeçit district. A project to revive a centuries-old area with high heritage, artistic and tourist interest. For the provincial director of the Culture and Tourism Authority it will also foster “economic growth” in the region.
Istanbul (AsiaNews) - In the Dargeçit district of Mardin, located in southeastern Turkey, the announced restoration and redevelopment work of the historic “Syriac bazaar” dating back more than 400 years has received wide acclaim in recent days.
The project to revive a centuries-old area of high heritage, artistic and tourist interest is strongly supported by local municipal authorities and the Diyarbakır Survey and Monuments Directorate, with the cooperation of the Turkish Ministry ofCulture and Tourism. The recently completed rehabilitation works affected 65 premises and stores in the area located on Sefa Street.
Questioned about the project Ayhan Gok, provincial director of the Culture and Tourism Authority, stressed that “the restoration took a year and a half and will be completed within the next two weeks,” while “the stores will be opened to the public shortly.”
“This revitalized bazaar,” he adds, ‘is set to become an important tourist attraction, attracting visitors with its historic charm’ as part of a ‘key initiative’ to preserve Mardin's heritage.
“This project,” he concludes, ”highlights the commitment to maintaining the area's cultural heritage while encouraging economic growth."
The restoration work on the Syriac Bazaar, one of the landmarks of Mardin's rich cultural landscape, includes the rehabilitation of dozens of stores and businesses many of which have fallen into disrepair over the centuries.
The work also includes sanitation measures for about 600 meters of the surrounding streets to ensure that the area is not only visually and aesthetically attractive, but also safe, accessible and functional for all visitors. One of the most significant aspects of the restoration, experts explain, is the attention to detail” with the structure restored to its original state and new lighting systems to enhance the architecture.
This former marketplace, once a bustling commercial center, will soon become active again with a variety of stores to explore, each offering unique goods that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.
In addition to shopping options, travelers will be able to browse through traditional handicrafts, textiles, spices and other local products that represent the cultural identity and history of Mardin and all of southeastern Turkey. In addition, the restoration project's goals include restoring the bazaar to its original state so that visitors can admire the intricate architecture that has withstood the test of time, as well as lighting installations that enhance photography and exploration.
Lastly, the restoration project is not only about preserving history and heritage: at the same time, it will ensure the economic growth of an entire region through the influx of tourists, the enhancement of commerce, and through support for local businesses and activities, helping to create jobs and stimulate the local economy.
The restoration of the Syriac Bazaar in Mardin is not only a local event but holds potential on a global scale, becoming a landmark for travelers in the Middle East, and beyond.
The restoration of the Syriac Bazaar marks the beginning of a new era for Mardin's tourism industry, which will be able to combine the preservation of cultural heritage with the demands of modern tourism, providing travelers with authentic and enriching experiences.
.png)
30/11/2007
