Kilis is a picturesque region famous for its vineyards and olive orchards, situated close to the Turkish-Syrian border. The area boasts a long history of commerce, with records indicating its existence as far back as 3000 BC.
Over the centuries, Kilis has been governed by numerous empires, including the Assyrian, Hurri-Mitani, Hittite, Persian, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations. In 636 AD, Caliph Omer established it as a strategic outpost against the Byzantine Empire. During the Crusader period, Kilis was incorporated into the County of Urfa, later coming under the control of the Seljuks and Mamelukes, before being absorbed into the Ottoman Empire during the reign of Yavuz Sultan Selim.
After the First World War, Kilis was liberated from occupying forces on December 7th, 1921, amid the War of Independence. The Turkish government officially declared Kilis a province on June 6th, 1996.
The city lies less than 10 kilometers from the Syrian border and shares a 120-kilometer stretch of frontier with Syria. Kilis is dominated by two prominent mountains, Resul Osman and Kotal, along with two main water sources, the Afrin and Sabun Suyu streams.
Kilis hosts several important mosques that showcase its rich historical and architectural heritage. The Canpolat Mosque, constructed in the 1500s by a local governor, is the earliest example of Ottoman architecture in the city. The Akcurun Mosque, built in 1134 by Seyyide Fatma, features Mameluke architectural style. Another key landmark is the Ulu (Grand) Mosque, founded in 1336 by Abdullah Bin Haci Halil, which stands as one of the most notable structures in Kilis.
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