Anıtlı Shines on the Global Stage: Türkiye’s Ancient Village Earns UNWTO “Best Tourism Village 2025” Honor

Anıtlı, a centuries-old settlement located in Midyat district of Mardin province, has secured a prestigious place on the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) “Best Tourism Villages 2025” list, reinforcing Türkiye’s growing reputation as a global hub for cultural and faith-based tourism.

Formerly known as “Hah,” Anıtlı is one of the most historically significant settlements in the Tur Abdin region, an area renowned for its Syriac Christian heritage. Despite its administrative transition from village to neighborhood status following Türkiye’s 2012 metropolitan law, Anıtlı has successfully preserved its architectural integrity, cultural identity, and spiritual atmosphere.

A Living Open-Air Museum in Southeastern Türkiye

Visitors to Anıtlı are welcomed by rows of traditional stone houses that reflect the region’s ancient craftsmanship, as well as some of the most important religious landmarks in Mesopotamian history. Among them are the ruins of the Mor Sobo Cathedral, which served as a metropolitan center for nearly nine centuries after the Mor Gabriel Monastery, and the Meryem Ana (Virgin Mary) Church, built atop a monument dating back more than 2,000 years.

These landmarks have positioned Anıtlı as a unique destination where history, religion, and architecture intersect—an appeal that strongly aligns with UNWTO’s criteria for sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and community-based development.

International Recognition Boosts Mardin’s Tourism Momentum

With its inclusion in the UNWTO list, Anıtlı became one of 52 villages from 29 countries worldwide to receive the distinction in 2025. Local authorities believe the recognition will significantly increase international visibility for both Anıtlı and the broader Mardin region.

Midyat Mayor Veysi Şahin highlighted that the achievement was the result of coordinated efforts with Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, including restoration projects and infrastructure improvements carried out under a protocol established in 2022. The award was officially presented on October 17 in Huzhou, China, during an international ceremony.

According to Şahin, tourism in Midyat is already experiencing strong growth, with Anıtlı rapidly becoming one of the most requested destinations among foreign travelers. “Midyat is now a shining star not only in Türkiye, but globally,” he said.

Local Community Sees a Turning Point

For residents, the UNWTO recognition represents more than an award—it marks a turning point for the local economy and community life. Neighborhood head Habip Doğan noted a visible rise in visitor numbers since the announcement, emphasizing that Anıtlı’s authenticity has remained untouched despite growing interest.

Tourism professionals echo this optimism. Zeynettin Mağat, a local tour operator, stated that Anıtlı is now among the first sites tourists ask to visit in Midyat, predicting a sharp increase in foreign arrivals in the upcoming season.

Even during winter months, hospitality workers report unusually high activity levels, signaling that Anıtlı’s appeal extends well beyond traditional tourism seasons.

A Destination That Leaves a Lasting Impression

Visitors from across Türkiye describe Anıtlı as unforgettable. Many cite the spiritual atmosphere of the Meryem Ana Church and the timeless character of the stone architecture as highlights of their journey. For travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences, Anıtlı stands out as a destination that blends history, faith, and living tradition.

As expectations grow for 2026 and beyond, Anıtlı is widely seen as one of Türkiye’s brightest emerging tourism destinations—proof that preserving heritage can open doors to global recognition.