THE CHURCH OF THE 40 MARTYRS (KIRKLAR KILISESI)

This church, which dates from the 4th century, is the most active church in Mardin. Built during the Byzantine period in 539, it was formerly called Benham. The name Kırklar ("the 40 Martyrs") was given to it centuries later in homage to the 40 Christians of Cappadocia martyred and killed under the order of the Roman Emperor Licinius. Its rectangular architectural plan only dates from 1825. It has 12 large vaulted columns. Mass is on Sundays.