Mor Behnam - Kirklar ChurchPlaces to Visit in Mardin

The Mor Behnam Church, also referred to as the Kirklar Church or the Church of the 40 Martyrs, stands as an important landmark in the city of Mardin. Constructed in the year 569, it was dedicated to the revered Syriac figures, Saint Behnam and his sister Saro, honoring their legacy and spiritual significance.

The primary structure of the church is located on the eastern side of a spacious courtyard and is supported by 12 stone columns with connecting arches. Elements such as the wooden doors, root-dyed drapes, and intricate stone lacework within the courtyard are centuries old and contribute greatly to the site's aesthetic and historical appeal.

The church bears the name Kirklar or Forty Martyrs Church due to the arrival of the relics of 40 martyrs in 1170. It is an active place of worship under the Syriac Orthodox Church and functions as the metropolitan cathedral for the community. Visitors are welcome to enter for religious services or general visits when the church is open to the public.

Inside, a large artwork vividly portrays the tale of the 40 martyrs. According to tradition, during the third century, Roman Emperor Dokios enforced harsh measures against Christians. Forty Greek-origin soldiers defied these orders, were captured, and ultimately exiled. They were forced into a freezing pond in Sivas at midnight, where a divine light later appeared above the water and crowns were seen above their heads. By morning, the soldiers had frozen to death, becoming honored martyrs in Christian history. Numerous churches and monasteries have been built in remembrance of their sacrifice.

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