Sirnak is a town located near Hakkari province, surrounded by towering mountains and serving as a vital link between Turkey and Middle Eastern countries. Its population of 530,000 reside within an area of 7,172 square kilometers, encompassing six towns: Beytussebap, Cizre, Guclukonak, Idil, Silopi, and Uludere.
Legend has it that Sirnak's original name was "Sehr-i Nuh" (the city of Noah), owing to its proximity to Cudi Mountain, where it is believed Noah's Ark finally landed following the Great Flood (as described in the story of Ararat). Over time, the name evolved into "Sernah". During the reign of the Guti Empire, a unique form of inscription called "civi zend" was invented in the region.
Cudi Mountain is a fertile area steeped in history, standing over 2000 meters tall. One of its peaks, known as "Noah's Visit", is among the highest in southeastern Anatolia and is said to be where the Ark first made landfall. Sirnak is also home to several other important historical artifacts, including a rock carving from the Assyrian era depicting a horseback rider near Meseici village and Kasrik Pass; rock carvings from the Neolithic period dating back to 7000 BC in Beytussebap; and the Kale, Meme Kale, and Kaletivuru forts. The bridges of Kasrik Pass showcase the skilled stonework of the Seljuk period. Additionally, Cizre's Virgin Mary Church should not be confused with the similarly-named structure in Ephesus.
Sirnak's economy is primarily based on agriculture, animal husbandry, and border trade. The main crops grown are wheat, barley, and lentils, while cotton serves as the primary industrial crop. Pomegranates and grapes of exceptional quality are raised in Cizre and Silopi. Nomadic herders breed sheep and several varieties of goats, including the ordinary goat, Angora goat, and the brown-haired goat native to the area. Local handicrafts include carpets, kilims, and bags woven by hand. Sirnak scarves are crafted from sheep wool, and Beytussebap is renowned for its kilims.