Beyond being an ancient city bearing the oldest traces of human history, Şanlıurfa is also a land with deep roots in music. In these lands where civilizations intersect, music has been not only an art form but also the most powerful way for people to express their emotions, beliefs, and way of life.
With its 12,000-year history shedding light on human history, Şanlıurfa has always kept music at the center of life throughout this long journey, passing down its folk songs, ‘hoyrat’ songs, and melodies from generation to generation. From Göbeklitepe to Harran, from the fertile stops of the Silk Road to the present day, this musical heritage, shaped by the meeting of different cultures and religions throughout the ages, still retains its vitality today.
Şanlıurfa's music draws its source from the fertility of its land and the sincerity of its people; it has succeeded in reaching the whole world with its language, its melodies, and its heartfelt sounds. The recognition of this richness as a universal value is a source of pride for us, but it also carries responsibility. We are determined to preserve, develop, and pass on this unique heritage to future generations. Şanlıurfa will continue to build a strong bridge between the past and the future through music.
News
Unesco Cities Of Music Annual Meeting Concludes With A Traditional Sira Night At Historic Barutçu Han
“The UNESCO Cities of Music Annual Meeting in Şanlıurfa concluded with a memorable traditional Sıra Night attended by international delegates from 30 countries across four continents. The historic Barutçu Han, recently restored and revitalized by Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality, hosted its first major international event following its restoration.”
A Day Of Concerts And Musical Performances At The Unesco Cities Of Music Annual Meeting In Şanliurfa
“The UNESCO Cities of Music Annual Meeting continued with a vibrant program of concerts, workshops, and cultural performances in Şanlıurfa. Bringing together representatives from nearly 30 countries across four continents, the event featured a memorable performance by the Vox Humanis Choir, a synesthetic concert, and musical activities celebrating the city's rich cultural heritage.”
An Unforgettable Evening Of Sufi Music And Whirling Dervishes In Şanliurfa
“As part of the UNESCO Cities of Music Annual Meeting, Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality brought together its Sufi Music Choir and the whirling dervishes of the Mevlana Külliyesi Foundation for a captivating performance celebrating the city's rich spiritual and musical heritage.”
Unesco Delegation Captivated By Halfeti’s Historic Charm And Natural Beauty
“Representatives of UNESCO Cities of Music from 30 countries across four continents explored the breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage of Halfeti during their visit to Şanlıurfa. The international delegation enjoyed a scenic boat tour along the Euphrates River, discovering the district’s partially submerged historic settlements and experiencing the region’s unique cultural atmosphere.”
Âşiks, Abdals And Dengbêjs Take The Stage At Unesco Cities Of Music Annual Meeting In Şanliurfa
“Traditional musical performances by Âşıks from Kısas, Abdals from Kırşehir, and Dengbêj artists captivated international delegates at the UNESCO Cities of Music Annual Meeting in Şanlıurfa, celebrating the rich musical heritage of Anatolia.”
World’s Music Capitals Gather At The Zero Point Of History: Unesco Cities Of Music Annual Meeting Held In Şanlıurfa
ŞANLIURFA, TÜRKİYE – The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) Cities of Music Annual Meeting took place in Şanlıurfa from 12 to 14 October 2026, bringing together music cities from around the world in one of the oldest centers of human civilization and cultural heritage.
🎶 A Historic Victory For Şanlıurfa: Vox Humanis Becomes World Champion🏆
"Supported by Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality, the Vox Humanis Polyphonic Choir achieved an outstanding international success at the World Choir Games 2026 in Sweden, earning the highest score in its category and becoming world champion."
🎼 61 Students Graduate From Türkiye’s First Children And Youth Conservatory
“Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality celebrated the graduation of 61 students who successfully completed the 2025–2026 Spring Semester at Türkiye’s first Children and Youth Conservatory, highlighting a new generation of young musicians through an inspiring graduation performance.”
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