Diyarbakır was much more than what was described. That warmth that greeted me from the first moment I set foot in this city came not only from its air, but from its people and streets. I walked around the streets of Diyarbakır for two days. Although it was the month of Ramadan, the streets were incredibly crowded and lively, in spite of the silence of the fasting. If they ask me, "Where can you spend the whole day?" Without thinking, I would say "In these narrow and historical streets of Diyarbakır".
History and Life Intertwined
I started my trip from the Sur region. Walking in the shade of those walls made of huge basalt stones made me feel like I was among the pages of a history book. But this book was alive! On the one hand, the thousand-year-old Hasan Pasha Inn, on the other hand, the most natural flow of life... When you enter through that magnificent door of the inn, the smell of coffee that greets you and the movement in the courtyard are truly fascinating. I caught a different story in every corner while taking photos. Colorful shawls, handmade products and that historical texture nourished my photographer soul a lot.
Iftar Fuss and Raw Meatball Queues
The most impressive hours of the day definitely started as iftar time approached. As the sun slowly receded, the activity in the streets was doubling. The rush to grow hot pita, dessert and iftar in people's homes is a complete visual feast. That's exactly what they called "a sweet rush".
But what surprised me the most was the raw meatball stands. I'm not exaggerating, there was a huge tray of raw meatballs in front of almost one of the two shops. Even watching the masters prepare the wrap with those fast and rhythmic movements is a pleasure in itself. From what I heard, all of these big trays are finished until iftar. Ramadan in Diyarbakır meant a little fresh raw meatballs and those ice-famous drinks next to it.
City of Colors and Tastes
While walking on the streets, not only the food, but also the colors draw you in. Fresh fruits on the greengrocer stalls, dried eggplants and peppers hanging in front of spice shops... Everything looks so appetizing and natural. Especially the shops where those Amedspor jerseys are sold, summarize the city's passion for its own team. Diyarbakır is not just a city, it is like a giant organism with a unique character.
First Iftar with Cousins
For me, the best part of this trip was meeting my cousins in the evening. While I couldn't wait to have iftar with them, I waited, breathing in that energy on the street. When the ball exploded and the call to prayer was recited, the most unforgettable moments of these two days were the fact that those crowded streets suddenly fell into a peaceful silence, and then the laughter on the tables rose.
These two days I spent in Diyarbakır not only showed me new places; they also reminded me of what sharing, tradition and sincerity mean. If you get lost, don't just visit the tourist attractions; leave yourself to those crowded streets and experience that unique spirit of Ramadan in Diyarbakır.