Opening Program of the 3rd International Marj Dabiq Congress Held

The opening program of the 3rd International Marj Dabiq Congress, organized in cooperation with Kilis 7 Aralık University and the University of Health Sciences, with the support of the Governorship of Kilis and Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality, was held at Marj Dabiq Square in Yavuzlu Village.

Organized to examine the historical legacy of the Victory of Marj Dabiq within an academic framework, the opening program began with a moment of silence and the Turkish National Anthem. Performances by the Folk Dance Community of our University and a musical recital presented by students of the Alaeddin Yavaşca State Conservatory were highly appreciated by the audience.

During the program, welcoming speeches were delivered by our Rector, Prof. Dr. Zekeriya Akman; the Rector of the University of Health Sciences, Prof. Dr. Kemalettin Aydın; the Mayor of Kilis, Attorney Hakan Bilecen; and the Governor of Kilis, Ömer Kalaylı.

The speakers emphasized the significance of the Victory of Marj Dabiq in terms of regional history, the Ottoman political structure, Islamic civilization, and collective historical consciousness. It was noted that the congress aims to approach historical events not merely as elements of the past but as values that continue to enrich today’s cultural and academic memory.

As part of the opening program, Prof. Dr. Kemalettin Aydın, Rector of the University of Health Sciences, delivered the opening lecture titled “The Long Shadow of a War: From Marj Dabiq to Gallipoli, 1516–1916.” The lecture examined the historical process extending from the Victory of Marj Dabiq to the Gallipoli Campaign, evaluating the political, social, and civilizational impacts of wars.

The Marj Dabiq Run Award Ceremony was also held within the scope of the congress activities. Medals were presented to the successful athletes by protocol members.

The 3rd International Marj Dabiq Congress will continue with academic sessions to be held at our University on May 15.