Turkey’s Largest Cave Entrance and Early Christian Traces
Situated in the Döşemealtı district north of Antalya, Kocain Cave is mesmerizing with its length exceeding 600 meters and its monumental entrance standing approximately 20 meters high. Boasting the widest cave mouth in Turkey, Kocain is not just a natural wonder but also a sanctuary that has seen human settlement since prehistoric times.
Colossal Columns and Inscriptions
The cave houses massive columns reaching heights of 40-50 meters; these structures act like the pillars of an underground cathedral. One of the cave's most significant features is its large cisterns and inscriptions believed to date back to the Early Christian period. Kocain offers its visitors a mystical experience through its sheer scale and profound silence.
Practical Information
- Location: Near Ahırtaş village, Döşemealtı.
- Transportation: Follow the signs after Ahırtaş village; the final part of the road is unpaved.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Tip: Since the cave is extremely large, it is essential to have a powerful flashlight with you.
