This nearly square-shaped courtyard is surrounded on all four sides by pointed arches (arcades). The columns are built with finely cut stone, while the vaulted ceilings above are made of basalt stone, showcasing the region’s traditional architectural techniques.
At the center of the courtyard lies a stone-lined water well, approximately 8 meters deep, which once served as the monastery’s main water source.
Along the north and south sides of the courtyard are a series of rooms that were once used by monastic students for living and spiritual retreat. These rooms feature small windows and wall niches, with vaulted ceilings constructed from basalt, offering both insulation and durability.
ptions in the Courtyard
Several stone inscriptions (kitabe) can be seen throughout the colonnaded courtyard, offering valuable insights into the monastery’s history. They are written in "Garshuni" script—a unique style using Syriac letters to write Arabic. Right Inscription (Colonnade Wall):
"Our master Patriarch Jacob II and his servant Father Dawud, by the grace of the Lord, showed great interest in building the monastery’s colonnades."
(Year: 2166 Greek Calendar – 1855 AD)
Left Inscription (Colonnade Wall):
"The people of Beşiriye contributed to the construction of this building. Builders: Ibrahim M. Melek, Sefere, Reşşo, and Melke."
(Year: 1856 AD)
Above the Window on the North Room Wall:
Only partial words like “October” and “year…” are legible due to damage.
Above the Doorway Leading to the Third Courtyard (East Wall):
This inscription is heavily eroded, but fragments read:
“…Church of the Virgin Mary, during the time of Mor Ignatius… under the leadership of Father … from Bate village…” Left Wall of the Church Entrance:
"Hisne, daughter of Murad, donated one hundred lira from her own property during the time of Matay. Pray for me. May the Lord bless her. Year: 1807."
These inscriptions do not indicate the original construction dates of the monastery but are more likely to refer to renovations or additions carried out in those specific areas.
