Balıklıgöl Şanlıurfa - a group of people standing next to a body of water
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Balıklıgöl Şanlıurfa

4.7
·21k reviews·, Türkiye

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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

For a peaceful, less crowded experience.

CrowdLow
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Balıklıgöl Şanlıurfa - a group of people standing next to a body of water

Balıklıgöl Şanlıurfa

Best Time

Weekday mornings

For a peaceful, less crowded experience.

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.7
(21k reviews)

"A beautiful peaceful place to pray and reflect. Loved visiting and praying there."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sacred Pool

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

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

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

Urfa Castle Views

Overlooking the complex

Explore the ancient castle for panoramic views of Balıklıgöl and the historic city of Şanlıurfa.

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Sacred Waters and Ancient Stories

Balıklıgöl is a deeply spiritual site, believed to be where Prophet Abraham was saved. The carp in the pool are considered sacred. Entry is free, making it accessible for all visitors seeking a peaceful reflection or a glimpse into religious history. Reddit

Best Times for Serenity

While entry is free and the site is open, visiting during weekdays or early mornings can offer a more tranquil experience. Weekends can get busy, but there's usually space to find peace. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
For a peaceful, less crowded experience.
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Beautifully lit and atmospheric.
Crowd
Medium
When
Early mornings (7-9 AM)
Why
Live streams capture the dawn.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Şanlıurfa Balıklıgöl peygamberler şehri 🤲😭🧿😍
@vedat9365
56.5K likes • 2.4M views

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:

Benim Güzel Memleketim ❤️😍🧿#şanlıurfa63 #onecikart #keşfet #balıklıgöl
@ceylanx.63
16.8K likes • 617.2K views
Balıklıgöl yazısı nasıl olmuş sizce?? #balıklıgöl ##şanlıurfa #kesfetteyiz
ogun.drone
416 likes • 0 views

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:

Gece gece rahmet yağıyor Urfa'ma #şanlıurfa #urfa #balıklıgöl
urfadan1yer
809 likes • 0 views

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

4.7
(21k reviews)

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

Deep historical significance
Sacred carp and legend
Peaceful and serene atmosphere

What People Dislike

Occasional disruptive events nearby

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

While not always formally advertised, local guides can often be found in the vicinity offering insights into the history and legends of Balıklıgöl. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Balıklıgöl and its surrounding grounds is free for all visitors. Reddit

Balıklıgöl is accessible 24/7, though the surrounding facilities and shops may have specific operating hours. The atmosphere is particularly enchanting at night. TikTok+1

No, tickets are not required as entry is free. You can visit spontaneously. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

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. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are public restrooms and various amenities available around the Balıklıgöl complex, including cafes and shops. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Numerous restaurants and cafes surround Balıklıgöl, offering local Şanlıurfa cuisine, including the famous Urfa kebab. Instagram+1

Don't miss out on Urfa kebab, çiğ köfte, lahmacun, and various regional mezes. The culinary scene is a significant part of the experience. Instagram

Yes, many restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian mezes and dishes. Look for options like stuffed eggplant (patlıcan dolması) or vegetable kebabs. Instagram

Yes, there are vendors and small shops around the complex selling snacks, drinks, and local sweets. Reddit

Dining options range from budget-friendly street food and cafes to more upscale restaurants. You can find delicious meals at reasonable prices. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The reflections in the water, the sacred carp, the historic mosques, and the view from Urfa Castle all offer fantastic photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

Both sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting. The complex is also magical when illuminated at night. TikTokInstagram

While generally permitted, be mindful of people praying and maintain respectful distance. Avoid intrusive photography, especially inside religious buildings. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Balıklıgöl is a wonderful destination for families. The free entry and open spaces make it easy for children to explore. Feeding the sacred carp is a highlight that kids usually love, and it's a great way to introduce them to the site's legends in a fun, interactive way. Reddit

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. TikTok

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

For those on a spiritual journey, Balıklıgöl is a profoundly significant site. Believed to be where Prophet Abraham was saved from a fiery fate, the pools and surrounding mosques offer a tranquil environment for prayer, reflection, and connecting with faith. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Balıklıgöl is a dream for photographers, offering a rich tapestry of visual elements. From the iconic sacred carp and the reflective waters to the majestic mosques and the ancient Urfa Castle, there's no shortage of stunning subjects. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Balıklıgöl

Balıklıgöl, meaning 'Fish Lake,' is central to a profound religious narrative. According to Islamic tradition, this is where Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim) was thrown into a fiery pit by the tyrannical King Nimrod. However, by divine intervention, the flames turned into water and the burning logs transformed into the sacred carp that inhabit the pool today. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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

While the religious narrative is central, Balıklıgöl offers a multifaceted experience. The complex is a vibrant hub, especially in the evenings when it's beautifully illuminated, creating a magical ambiance. Families often gather here, and the atmosphere can be lively yet peaceful. TikTokInstagram+1

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. Instagram Drone footage showcases the breathtaking scale of the complex and its integration with the city, offering a unique perspective on this iconic landmark. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram+1 This highlights the ongoing balance between preserving the sanctity of the site and its role as a public space.

Photography at Balıklıgöl

Balıklıgöl is a photographer's delight, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical architecture, and spiritual resonance. The shimmering waters, teeming with sacred carp, provide endless opportunities for captivating shots. Capturing the reflections of the surrounding mosques and the Urfa Castle in the pools can result in stunning imagery. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram Drone photography has become increasingly popular, offering breathtaking aerial perspectives of the entire Balıklıgöl plateau and the ancient city. TikTokInstagram

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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