Türkiye adds ancient cave with stalactites, stalagmites to natural wonders list
A cave with stalactites and stalagmites was discovered by Recep Kilic, who was grazing his animals in the village of Gumuskasik, located in the Gerger district of Adiyaman, Türkiye, September 4, 2024. (AA Photo)
An ancient cave filled with striking stalactites and stalagmites has been discovered in Adiyaman’s Gerger district in Türkiye.
Local shepherd Recep Kilic came across the cave while grazing his animals near the village of Gumuskasik. Upon entering the cave and seeing the unusual formations inside, Kilic immediately notified local authorities.
Experts from the Adiyaman Museum conducted an on-site inspection, confirming that the impressive structures within the cave, including large columns, were formed over millions of years.
“We’ve explored up to 40 meters deep and observed the stalactites and stalagmites formed from dripping water. Particularly notable are the 10-meter-long and 3-meter-wide columns, which developed over millions of years,” stated Mehmet Alkan, Director of the Adiyaman Museum.
The cave is located in a remote area, and reaching it requires a challenging hike. However, Alkan urged nature lovers and adventurers to visit the site.
“It takes a strenuous walk to get there, but this place is definitely worth seeing for those interested in nature and exploration,” he added.
Kilic described his discovery, explaining, “I found the cave while herding my animals and saw unique formations inside. I immediately reported it to the authorities, and I’m glad I discovered something so fascinating.”
Mersin’s Gilindire cave: Unique blend of history, natural beauty
The discovery in Adiyaman brings to mind another significant cave found in Türkiye, the Gilindire Cave in Mersin’s Aydincik district.
This cave was discovered in 1999 by a shepherd following a porcupine. It has since become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors to southern Türkiye with its Ice Age formations and the beautiful Mirror Lake located within.
Governor Ali Hamza Pehlivan noted that Gilindire Cave has both historical and geological significance. “Human traces in the cave date back approximately 11,000 years, while its formation is estimated to be between 30 and 50 million years old,” Pehlivan said.
Recent renovations, including the installation of a new lighting system and improved access routes, have enhanced the cave’s appeal to tourists.
Before the pandemic, the ancient cave attracted about 100,000 visitors annually, and officials hope to increase that number through continued promotion and improvements.
The presence of Mirror Lake, along with the well-preserved stalactites and stalagmites, makes this cave an essential destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Could ancient cave used during Noah’s flood be in Tokat?
Besides the Adiyaman and Gilindire caves, Türkiye is home to another mysterious cave with historical significance – the Luwian Cave in Tokat’s Efkerit Valley.
Located 100 meters above the ground, this cave is believed to have been built by the Luwian tribe as a shelter during Noah’s Flood. Its entrance, built with stone, has intrigued researchers and locals alike, sparking curiosity about how it was constructed.
According to resident Yunus Bektas, there are calls to open the cave for tourism.
“This cave is surrounded by myths, including its use during Noah’s Flood and as a military base by Nizamettin Yagibasan, a ruler of the Danishmendids. It could be a wonderful tourist attraction,” Bektas stated.
Currently unexplored, the Luwian Cave holds potential for both historical research and tourism, adding another layer to Türkiye’s rich collection of fascinating cave discoveries.
The ancient myths and untold stories linked to this cave make it a perfect addition to the region’s cultural and historical offerings.
