Balıklıgöl Şanlıurfa
A sacred oasis where legend and faith intertwine, Balıklıgöl is a spiritual heart of Şanlıurfa, famed for its sacred carp and Abraham's legend.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
For a peaceful, less crowded experience.
Balıklıgöl Şanlıurfa
Best Time
For a peaceful, less crowded experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred oasis where legend and faith intertwine, Balıklıgöl is a spiritual heart of Şanlıurfa, famed for its sacred carp and Abraham's legend.
"A beautiful peaceful place to pray and reflect. Loved visiting and praying there."
Feed the Sacred Fish
You can feed the carp for about 10 Turkish Lira. They are considered sacred! :fish:
Drink the Healing Water
The water is believed to have healing powers. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sacred Pool
Balıklıgöl
A serene pool filled with sacred carp, steeped in the legend of Prophet Abraham's miraculous salvation.

Prophet Abraham's Cave
Adjacent to the pool
The believed birthplace and miraculous escape site of Prophet Abraham, a place of deep religious significance.

Halil-ur-Rahman Mosque
Overlooking the pool
A beautiful mosque offering a peaceful atmosphere for prayer and reflection, with stunning views of the lake.

Urfa Castle Views
Overlooking the complex
Explore the ancient castle for panoramic views of Balıklıgöl and the historic city of Şanlıurfa.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Sacred Waters and Ancient Stories
Best Times for Serenity
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Feed the Sacred Fish
You can feed the carp for about 10 Turkish Lira. They are considered sacred! :fish:
Drink the Healing Water
The water is believed to have healing powers. :droplet:
Explore the Surroundings
Wander through the historic mosques and courtyards. :mosque:
Enjoy the Night Views
The area is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical ambiance. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Feed the Sacred Fish
You can feed the carp for about 10 Turkish Lira. They are considered sacred! :fish:
Drink the Healing Water
The water is believed to have healing powers. :droplet:
Explore the Surroundings
Wander through the historic mosques and courtyards. :mosque:
Enjoy the Night Views
The area is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical ambiance. :sparkles:
Respect the Sacredness
Remember this is a holy site; dress modestly and maintain a respectful demeanor. :pray:
Drone Views Available
Capture stunning aerial shots of the complex and city. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Balıklıgöl is widely praised for its deep historical and religious significance, serene atmosphere, and the captivating legend of Prophet Abraham. Visitors find the sacred carp and the believed healing waters particularly enchanting, making it a peaceful and unique destination for reflection and exploration. The site's beauty is enhanced by its illuminated nighttime ambiance and the surrounding historical architecture.
"This beautiful location has a deep history about Prophet Ibrahim (as). A quick google research can tell you the story behind this beautiful scenery. You can feed the fish for a bout 10 turkish lira and have a drink of water that is believed to have a healing power."
Merve Ozcan
"The Fish Lake is also known as the Pool of Sacred Fish - Balıklıgöl in Turkish. It's size is just 150 meters long and 30 meters wide and it has a tremendous religious and historical significance: Balıklıgöl is believed to be the very site where the Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim) was miraculously saved from being burned alive by the tyrant King Nimrod. Even if you are not a strong believer, the surrounding area is very beautiful to walk around!"
vasileia “Billia” vespa
"This is a very unique place to visit. Entry is free. I came on a weekend and although the park and fish lake in particular were busy, you could still find your own space and relax. The park and lake are clean and inviting. The scenery is relaxing. It's definitely a great place for families, too."
Ms. Melissa Balan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Balıklıgöl is located in the heart of Şanlıurfa's old city. You can easily reach it by taxi or public transport from most parts of the city. Many visitors also walk from nearby attractions like the Urfa Bazaar.
There are parking lots available near the complex, though they can fill up, especially on weekends. It's often easier to use public transport or a taxi to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, Şanlıurfa is accessible for day trips, especially from nearby cities. However, to truly appreciate the spiritual atmosphere and explore the surrounding historical sites, an overnight stay is recommended.
Taxis are readily available and affordable for getting around Şanlıurfa. Local buses also serve the area. For a unique perspective, consider a drone flight over the city and the lake.
While not always formally advertised, local guides can often be found in the vicinity offering insights into the history and legends of Balıklıgöl.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Balıklıgöl and its surrounding grounds is free for all visitors.
Balıklıgöl is accessible 24/7, though the surrounding facilities and shops may have specific operating hours. The atmosphere is particularly enchanting at night.
No, tickets are not required as entry is free. You can visit spontaneously.
As a sacred site, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Loud music or disruptive behavior is discouraged, as it can detract from the spiritual ambiance.
While there are cafes and vendors around the complex, it's generally acceptable to bring your own water. Please ensure you dispose of any waste properly to keep the area clean.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can feed the sacred carp, drink from the believed healing waters, explore the historic mosques, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The surrounding area also offers opportunities for reflection and prayer.
Yes, Balıklıgöl is a great place for families. The open spaces are good for children to explore, and the feeding of the fish is often a highlight for younger visitors.
The carp in Balıklıgöl are considered sacred and are believed to be descendants of the fish that saved Prophet Abraham. Feeding them is a popular activity.
Photography is generally allowed, and many visitors capture the beauty of the pools, mosques, and the castle. Drone photography is also popular for unique aerial shots.
Yes, there are public restrooms and various amenities available around the Balıklıgöl complex, including cafes and shops.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Numerous restaurants and cafes surround Balıklıgöl, offering local Şanlıurfa cuisine, including the famous Urfa kebab.
Don't miss out on Urfa kebab, çiğ köfte, lahmacun, and various regional mezes. The culinary scene is a significant part of the experience.
Yes, many restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian mezes and dishes. Look for options like stuffed eggplant (patlıcan dolması) or vegetable kebabs.
Yes, there are vendors and small shops around the complex selling snacks, drinks, and local sweets.
Dining options range from budget-friendly street food and cafes to more upscale restaurants. You can find delicious meals at reasonable prices.
📸 📸 Photography
The reflections in the water, the sacred carp, the historic mosques, and the view from Urfa Castle all offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Drone photography is popular and can capture stunning aerial views of the complex and the city. Ensure you are aware of any local regulations regarding drone usage.
Both sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting. The complex is also magical when illuminated at night.
While generally permitted, be mindful of people praying and maintain respectful distance. Avoid intrusive photography, especially inside religious buildings.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod can help with low-light photography at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are plenty of spots to sit and relax, and the surrounding cafes offer kid-friendly snacks. The historical context can be simplified for younger minds, focusing on the story of Prophet Abraham and the magical fish. It's a peaceful yet engaging experience for all ages.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
The water itself is considered to have healing properties, adding another layer to its spiritual allure. Visitors often find solace and peace in the serene atmosphere, making it a destination for contemplation and spiritual renewal.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the ethereal beauty during sunrise or sunset, or be mesmerized by the magical illumination at night. Drone photography provides unique aerial perspectives, showcasing the grandeur of the entire complex.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Balıklıgöl
This legend imbues the site with immense spiritual significance, drawing pilgrims and visitors from across the globe. The two main pools, Halil-ur-Rahman and Ayn Zeliha, are fed by springs and are home to thousands of carp, which are considered sacred and are not to be harmed. Visitors often purchase special food to feed the fish, a practice that has become an integral part of the Balıklıgöl experience.
The surrounding complex includes historic mosques like the Halil-ur-Rahman Mosque and the Rizvaniye Mosque, as well as the cave believed to be Abraham's birthplace. The entire area is a testament to the rich history and deep-rooted faith associated with Şanlıurfa, often referred to as the 'City of Prophets'.
Experiencing Balıklıgöl: Beyond the Legend
Visitors can enjoy the surrounding gardens, sip tea at the local cafes, and soak in the historical architecture. The nearby Urfa Bazaar is also a must-visit for those looking to experience local crafts, spices, and the bustling city life. Drone footage showcases the breathtaking scale of the complex and its integration with the city, offering a unique perspective on this iconic landmark.
It's important to note that while the site is revered, there have been instances of events like parties being held nearby, which have sparked debate among locals and visitors regarding the appropriateness of such activities in a sacred space. This highlights the ongoing balance between preserving the sanctity of the site and its role as a public space.
Photography at Balıklıgöl
The best times for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a warm glow over the entire complex. However, the site transforms into a different kind of beauty at night, with intricate lighting illuminating the mosques and pathways, creating a truly magical scene. Drone photography has become increasingly popular, offering breathtaking aerial perspectives of the entire Balıklıgöl plateau and the ancient city.
When photographing, remember to be respectful of worshippers and the sacred nature of the site. Avoid intrusive shots, especially within the mosques. Focusing on the architectural details, the serene expressions of visitors, and the vibrant life of the carp can lead to compelling and meaningful photographs.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit