Mystery cave paintings in Türkiye’s Sivas: Secret sanctuary or ancient art?
In Magara village of Gurun district, Sivas, the cave/rock paintings maintain their mystery, and the village residents want scientific studies to be conducted in the cave to contribute to the history and cultural tourism of the area, Türkiye, October 18, 2024. (IHA Photo)
In the Magara Village of Gurun district, Sivas, mysterious cave paintings have captivated villagers and visitors alike. Depicting animals, humans and intriguing symbols, these ancient drawings remain a mystery.
Villagers are calling for scientific investigation to uncover the origins of the paintings and hope the site can be preserved and opened to tourism.
Ancient secrets carved into stone
The Magara Village, thought to be thousands of years old, showcases captivating rock art featuring deer, horses and line formations of human figures.
These images, etched into the stone at the entrance of various caves, have inspired local curiosity and calls for deeper research to reveal the site’s history. However, the exact period and creators of these drawings remain unknown.
Hidden temple?
Ali Karadeniz, the village headman, highlights the potential historical significance of the cave paintings.
“We don’t know exactly how old these figures are, but they seem to date back quite far,” he explained. “There are animal and human motifs, possibly signifying scenes from everyday life or rituals. The upper area of the cave also contains carved rooms, indicating that this site may have once been a living space.”
Another local resident, Hasan Koc, believes the site could have once served as a hidden sanctuary.
“There are symbols that might belong to early Christianity, potentially dating back to a time when worship had to be conducted in secret, under Roman rule,” Koc shared.
“We think these motifs might have conveyed a story using symbols and animal figures. We’re not entirely sure, as the exact era remains a mystery.”
Traces of ancient civilization
Among the damaged paintings are images resembling the Hittite sun symbol, along with figures of deer, horses, and even people shown with wheeled vehicles. Locals believe these motifs offer a glimpse into the lives of those who inhabited the area, capturing scenes from an ancient narrative. Unfortunately, treasure hunters have caused damage to many of these images.
“We’ve seen signs of people searching for treasure, and we’re constantly trying to protect this place,” said Koc. “But if an official study were conducted, this site could be transformed into an open-air archaeological museum, preserving the stories embedded in these rocks for future generations.”
Archaeological treasure awaiting discovery
The Magara Village cave paintings are a valuable yet vulnerable part of Türkiye’s rich heritage. Locals are eager to see the area preserved and open to visitors, contributing to both historical understanding and regional tourism.
The mysterious cave paintings in Sivas‘ Magara Village offer a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past of Türkiye. As villagers advocate for scientific research and preservation efforts, there is a significant opportunity to uncover the historical and cultural narratives hidden within these artworks.
Protecting this archaeological treasure could not only enhance our understanding of early civilizations but also promote tourism, turning the site into a valuable educational resource for both locals and visitors alike.
