Sanliurfa, or Urfa for short, has been renowned as a centre of trade and culture for centuries, situated as it is at the crossroads of various travel routes. It connects the east and western parts of Anatolia, where the roads that link the Middle East and Asia as well as trade routes such as the Silk Road pass. That's why Urfa has always been a centre of activity and the cradle of many civilisations. It sits in the middle of a region where many cultures meet. Known as the "City of Prophets" Urfa has numerous sites dedicated to the blessed memories of the holy messengers of God: the cave in which Prophet Abraham was born, the Fish Lake which was the place where he was thrown into fire, the cave where Job was cured from his illness, the tomb of Elisha, Jacob's well, the well with Jesus' kerchief. The city is also famous for its ancient monuments including numerous mosques and churches.