3 places to visit in the Lice district of Diyarbakır: Lice Castle, Lice Yaylaları (Lice Plateaus) and Lice Ulu Camii (Lice Grand Mosque). Plan your trip to Lice with local food, practical tips and transport information.
The average elevation of the district centre above sea level is 950 metres. Lice is located north-east of Diyarbakır.
Residents earn income from agriculture (pomegranates, almonds, pistachios, onions, figs, tomatoes, peppers, aubergines and cucumbers) and from livestock products. Buying and selling animals is also a source of income.
It has a harsh continental climate, and snow falls early in the winters.
The Assyrian inscriptions in Lice bear witness to the end of the Chalcolithic period and the Neolithic period.
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The castle ruins on the hill in the district centre date from the Byzantine and Seljuk periods. The castle offers views of the district centre and the surrounding mountains. The loopholes and towers that can still be seen on its walls show traces of defensive architecture.
View on mapThe highland pastures in the upper parts of the district are preferred for picnics and hiking in the summer months, thanks to their cool climate and green nature. The ecosystem, with its endemic plant species and butterfly diversity, attracts the interest of naturalists.
View on mapBuilt in the Ottoman period, the Grand Mosque is the oldest place of worship in the district. This building, which bears traces of traditional construction techniques, reflects the spiritual values of the region. Handwritten calligraphy works and tile decoration in its interior attract visitors' interest.
View on mapWhile you are in Lice, you can also see the highlights of Diyarbakır province. These places are in other districts; Lice is about 80 km from the provincial centre.
Prepared by threading lamb liver onto skewers and grilling it over charcoal. This dish has an important place at local tables and is prepared using traditional recipes. Made with fresh, natural ingredients, it is a healthy option.
Prepared by boiling bulgur dough with a filling of minced meat, onion and walnuts. Made from recipes passed down through generations, this dish is an important part of the region's culinary culture. The recipe varies in every household with small touches.
Prepared by boiling crushed wheat and meat for a long time, then pounding them. Made with local ingredients, this dish reflects the region's gastronomic richness. Listed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list, keşkek is a source of pride in Turkish cuisine.
Çökelek and cheese are also mentioned among the sources of income.
Lice has been known for tobacco production throughout its history. Tobacco farming has been an important part of the district's economic and cultural identity.
Traditional farming and livestock culture is maintained in Lice. This cultural element, which strengthens social bonds, remains an important part of the region's social life.
Lice's economy is based on agriculture and livestock. Wheat, barley and lentils are the main agricultural products. Small livestock farming and beekeeping are important sources of livelihood.
Lice is 80 km from Diyarbakır city centre. It lies on the Diyarbakır–Bingöl highway. Minibus services run from Diyarbakır.
The top 3 places in Lice: Lice Castle, Lice Plateaus and Lice Grand Mosque.
Ciğer Kebabı, İçli Köfte, Keşkek and Çökelek are the standout dishes on Lice's tables.
Lice is known for Lice Tobacco and Tobacco Culture. Lice was once a district famous for tobacco production. Lice tobacco was known for its aroma and quality.
Lice is 80 km from Diyarbakır city centre. It lies on the Diyarbakır–Bingöl highway. Minibus services run from Diyarbakır.
Suggested visit length: half a day. Best time to visit: spring and summer.