Mar Petyun Keldani Church

Mar Petyun Keldani Church is a historic church located in the Özdemir Neighborhood of the Sur District in Diyarbakır, near Sheikh Mutahhar Camii on place land. This building, still actively used by the Chaldean Catholic community, has an uncertain construction date. Due to insufficient written records and the absence of an original inscription on the structure, its founding date has not been definitively established. However, an inscription dated 1834 above the entrance in the northwestern corner is generally accepted as marking a renovation date. It is known that the building has undergone multiple repairs throughout its history.

^{Mar Petyun Keldani Church (}Diyarbakır Governorate⁾

Mar Petyun Church, like many structures in Diyarbakır, is constructed primarily of black basalt stone. Its plan consists of a three-nave layout divided by arches and featuring five apses. The church’s basalt stone walls are harmonious with the segmented and two-tiered stone pavements in front. In addition to volcanic basalt stone, materials such as row soil, wood, and lime mortar (cas) were also used in its construction. Block stone was preferred for the masonry and flooring, while lime mortar was used for decorative elements and wood for furnishings. Iron is also notable, serving functional roles such as supporting lamps on the ceilings and forming window grilles.

Church forms a complex group of interconnected auxiliary structures. Alongside Mar Petyun Church, this complex includes a residence and three courtyard. The complex is arranged in an irregular U-shape around a courtyard.

^{Mar Petyun Keldani Church (}Diyarbakır Governorship⁾

According to some sources, the origins of Mar Petyun Keldani Church date back to the 17th century. However, this date has not been confirmed by definitive written documentation. The Chaldeans are one of the communities that have maintained a presence in the Diyarbakır region for centuries, and today a small number of Chaldean families continue to use this church for worship, liturgical ceremonies, and wedding activities. The church also functions as a art gallery and is one of the few active churches in Diyarbakır today.

^{Mar Petyun Keldani Church (}Diyarbakır Governorate⁾

Mar Petyun Keldani Church continues to hold both religious and cultural significance. Supported by the Chaldean community, this structure remains an integral part of Diyarbakır’s rich architectural and historical heritage. Open for worship, the church also offers house to visitors and art enthusiasts. Its proximity to Şeyh Mutahhar Camii enhances its prominence within the historical fabric of the Sur District.

^{Mar Petyun Keldani Church (}Diyarbakır Governorship⁾