Diyarbakır's Hevsel Gardens: Your next delightful autumn gateway


Known as a cradle of civilization, Diyarbakır offers a wonderful autumn experience with its historical spots and impressive yellow, brown and green autumn foliage. Alongside its natural beauty, Diyarbakır shines through its historical attractions, including its city walls, İçkale, St. George Church, dating back to the second century, Hevsel Gardens, which have cultivated agriculture for more than 8,000 years, and Ongözlü Bridge (Dicle Bridge).

Fed by the Tigris river, Hevsel Gardens is a natural and vivid masterpiece in autumn. Adorned with beautiful foliage, Hevsel Gardens never fails to mesmerize visitors.

Located near the Tigris, Kırklar Mountain and the area surrounding the Ongözlü Bridge are among the city's most popular spots.

While enjoying the tea gardens surrounded by willows and poplar trees near the bridge, visitors can also take in the scenery, clean air and freshly brewed beverages in a peace atmosphere. In the city, which resembles an open-air museum, the autumn spirit resonates around every corner.

Mustafa Kızılkaya, who came to the city both for business and sightseeing, spoke to Anadolu Agency (AA), expressing that he had always wanted to visit the city and is now very thankful he seized the opportunity to do so at such a beautiful time of the year.

Awed by the Tigris Valley's fall colors, Kızılkaya said: "I think everyone should come and experience this area's extraordinary fall beauty. This valley and the history of the city have really moved me."

Ercan Koç, 42, who spent much of his childhood in Hevsel Gardens, said he has seen every color nature has to offer over the years. Noting that the four seasons are uniquely experienced in Diyarbakır, Koç said: "We are in autumn now and located near the Tigris, but Diyarbakır is truly beautiful all year long." Stating that Diyarbakır is a must-see spot for everyone, he added: "This city is full of historical treasures. Diyarbakır is also called the city of watermelons. Though our watermelons are really famous, Diyarbakır is actually a city of history and culture, not watermelons. There is so much more to our city. You must come and experience it."

A 17-year-old tourist from Istanbul, Osman Kızılkaya, also said he really loved the city. Implying that it is extremely beautiful in the city in autumn, Kızılkaya said: "Here you can feel the extra oxygen in the air, and there many green areas. What's more, you don't perspire here. This city really provides relief after the muggy weather of Istanbul. The Tigris Valley is a peaceful spot. It's a peaceful place to just sit and drink tea. People should not judge Diyarbakır just by what they see on the news. There are people who refrain from visiting Diyarbakır due to security concerns which are unfounded. It is a very peaceful place. The city's people are really sincere and hospitable."