Mardin Castle towers above town on a rocky crag. To get there, take the steep path that leads up to the fortress starting from the Zinciriye Medresesi.
If possible, time your visit after the worst of the day's heat has dissipated as walking up under the midday blazing sun is quite exhausting.
Dating from the Roman era, the castle was extended in the 15th century, so that all the inhabitants of Mardın would be able to seek refuge inside in the event of an impending attack. A relief carving of two magnificent lions can still be seen on the gateway
