Prophets' Graves

Eğil is a district of Diyarbakır, known as the “City of the Prophets.” important This region, renowned for its historical and spiritual richness, is believed to be the site of the tombs of the prophets Zulkifl and Elyesa, mentioned by name in the Qur’an-ı Kerim. Quran like house

Historical and Geographic Features

Eğil was conquered by Muslims during the caliphate of Omar. The area along the banks of the Tigris River, place previously housed the tombs of the prophets Elyesa and Zulkifl before the construction of the Dicle Dam. When the dam’s construction posed a risk of submerging these tombs under water, a commission established by the General Directorate of Foundations and the Directorate of Religious Affairs relocated the tombs between 13 and 16 September 1995 to Nebi Harun Hill in the Castle neighborhood. During the relocation, commission members reported observing that the remains of Zulkifl and Elyesa had not decayed, a finding that generated significant public event echo.

The Prophets and Their Tombs

It is also reported that in Eğil lie the tombs of other saints mentioned in local tradition, including Nebi Harun-i Asefi, Nebi Hallak, Nebi Harut, Nebi Zünnun, Nebi Hormuz, and Nebi Ömer, alongside Zulkifl and Elyesa. Although information about some of these figures is limited, local belief and Ottoman chronicles support the existence of these tombs.

Prophet Zulkifl: Zulkifl, mentioned in the Qur’an-ı Kerim as one of the patient, the chosen, and those rewarded by God, was a prophet sent to the Children of Israel. He is said to have conveyed the commandments of the religion of Prophet Musa. Although some traditions state he died in one of the neighboring villages, his tomb is believed to be in Eğil. Diyarbakır chronicles dated 1883, 1890, and 1900 recorded his shrine as located in Ergani and restored with decoration. but people The prevailing view since then has been that his tomb is in Eğil. The frequent use of the name “Zülküf” in the region is considered a reflection of this belief.

Prophet Elyesa: Elyesa, sent to the Children of Israel after Prophet İlyas, demonstrated miracles for the reform of society, yet most of the people did not believe. He is said to be the nephew of Prophet Zulkifl. His tomb is located in the türbe on Nebi Harun Hill alongside that of Zulkifl.

Nebi Harun-i Asefi: Diyarbakır chronicles dated 1898, 1903, and 1905 identify him as a prophet and confirm the location of his tomb in Eğil. While some sources suggest this grave may belong to Harun, the vizier of Prophet Musa, the inscription dated H. 557 (M. 1161) in the türbe indicates it belongs to Harun, the son of the Sufi master Can.

Nebi Hallak: Diyarbakır chronicles dated 1316/1898, 1321/1903, and 1323/1905 state that Nebi Hallak was a prophet and that his tomb is located in Eğil. However, no detailed information about him exists in other sources.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance

Eğil is one of Diyarbakır’s most important spiritual and pilgrimage centers, known as the “City of the Prophets.” The türbes on Nebi Harun Hill serve as a spiritual focal point for the local population and visitors. This region, combining the scenic views of the Dicle Dam Lake with its historical and natural elements, attracts attention for its unique heritage. Centuries-old beliefs have established Eğil as a major religious tourism center in Southeastern Anatolia Türkiye.