Province · Sudeste da Anatólia (Mesopotâmia)

Kilis

Kilis is a town of stone houses, olive oil and tombs of companions of the Prophet Muhammad, near Gaziantep, with the Ravanda castle atop a hill and the large Oylum mound.

In the photo: Ravanda Castle, Kilis

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

The province

Get to know Kilis

Kilis lies in the transition between the Mediterranean and southeastern Anatolia, on a plain of olive groves and vineyards next to the Syrian border. The old town has houses and mansions of dressed stone, like those on Salih Efendi street, and the museum operates in a former soap factory.

Kilis preserves tombs attributed to companions of the Prophet Muhammad; 22 of them are visited, including those of Şurahbil and the sheikh Mansur, which makes the town a destination for religious tourism.

About 24 km away, Ravanda castle occupies the top of a hill in Belenözü, with stairs, cisterns and remains of a palace. Oylum Höyük, one of the largest archaeological mounds in the Middle East, grew at the crossroads of Anatolian, Syrian and Mesopotamian cultures, and nearby is a 6th-century mosaic basilica.

On the table is Kilis tava, meat roasted in a tray with tomato and pepper, the yogurt soup lebeniye, katmer and zahter, a wild thyme served at breakfast. Olive oil, olives and olive-oil soap are the town’s typical purchases.

When to go

March to May and October to November have the mildest weather. Summer is hot and dry; winter is cool and rainy, with Mediterranean influence.

Getting there

Kilis has no airport: the nearest is Gaziantep (GZT), about 47 km away. There are frequent buses and minibuses between Gaziantep and Kilis. Ravanda and Oylum require a car or taxi.

Your questions

Frequently asked questions about Kilis

Can you visit Kilis on a day trip from Gaziantep?

Yes. The distance is short, and one day allows you to see the historic center, some tombs and Ravanda castle.

Is the climb to Ravanda castle difficult?

The ascent is via stairs and paths installed during restoration, with benches for rest. Wear sturdy footwear and carry water in summer.

What to buy in Kilis?

Olive oil and olives, olive-oil soap, zahter, grape molasses and embroidered scarves.

How many days to allow for Kilis?

One day is enough for the town and its surroundings; those who want to visit the tombs at a relaxed pace can stay overnight.