Mor Petrus and Mor Paulus Church

Mor Petrus and Mor Paulus Church

The ancient Mor Petrus and Mor Paulus Church is situated in Adiyaman's city centre, specifically in the Mara neighbourhood. According to Syriac inscriptions on its doorways, the church was likely constructed in the 4th or 5th century and has undergone numerous restorations throughout its history.

Mor Petrus and Mor Paulus Church

Located in close proximity to the foundation of the Virgin Mary church, which was established as the first metropolitanate in 1701, the Mor Petrus and Mor Paulus Church served the Syriac community living near Adiyaman since its inception. Mor Abhay Eyup was the first appointed Metropolitan in the area, and his tomb is still present in the churchyard to this day.

The final Metropolitan to hold this position was Mor Kurillos Mansur Bishop Hallo of Mardin, whose tomb remains in the altar section of the church. Syriacs have built numerous churches and monasteries in various towns, including Gerger and Samsat, which have served as places of worship and centers for training. These establishments have produced notable scientific and spiritual figures, such as Lukyanus from Samsat.

The church has been crafted in the traditional style of Syriac stone masons, who were brought from Urfa during the 19th century to give the church its present form. It has served as a place of worship for many generations and continues to be an important religious site for the Syriac community.