Diyarbakir (ancient Amida), city in southeastern Turkey, capital of Diyarbakir Province, situated on the Tigris River, also called the Dicle River. Diyarbakir is a commercial center for a region in which grains, cotton, and melons are grown, and copper and petroleum are produced. The city is also known for the manufacture of flour, wine, and textiles, and for its fine gold and silver filigree work. Diyarbakir University (1966) is located here. The city is surrounded by black basalt walls, which date mainly from the 4th century AD. Originally a Roman colony, Diyarbakir was controlled by a series of rulers, including Romans, Arabs, and Persians, until it was captured by the Ottoman Turks in 1515. Kurds comprise a large number of the city's residents. Population (1996 estimate) 464,479.
