Kilis

Kilis is a city in southern Turkey and the administrative center of Kilis Province. It lies near the border with Syria and forms part of the region that connects the Turkish heartland with the Levant. The city sits at a transitional climate zone and serves as a local hub for commerce and services in the border area.

The area has a long history with settlements dating back to ancient times and has been ruled by several empires, including the Hittites, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. In the modern era, Kilis became part of the Turkish Republic and today functions as the provincial capital.

The economy combines agriculture—such as fruit farming and olive oil—with services and cross-border trade with Syria. The population is primarily Turkish, with cultural influences from neighboring regions. Since the Syrian conflict, the area has hosted a significant number of refugees, shaping local demographics and humanitarian activity.

Kilis has a semi-arid climate, with hot, dry summers and cool winters. The urban environment includes mosques, a traditional bazaar, and Ottoman-era architecture. Road connections link Kilis to Gaziantep and other Turkish cities, while the nearest international airport is Gaziantep.