Karain Cave Karain Cave, also referred to as Karain Mağarası, is an extensive natural cave located in the Yağca Village region, approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Antalya. The cave’s height ranges from about 150 meters at its entrance to between 430 and 450 meters above sea level. This cave has been occupied by humans since prehistoric eras, spanning the early Palaeolithic Period, Middle and Late Paleolithic Periods, Neolithic Period, Chalcolithic Period, Early Bronze Age, and the Classical Periods. Consequently, it contains a substantial cultural layer reaching approximately 11 meters in thickness. During the Classical Periods, Karain Cave was mainly used as a sacred votive site (temple), evidenced by Greek inscriptions and niches found at the entrance and on the exterior walls. Artifacts uncovered in excavations are exhibited at the nearby Antalya Museum (Antalya Mağarası) and the Karain Museum (Karain Müzesi). Situated approximately 100 meters above a travertine layer believed to date back to the Pleistocene era, the entrance of Karain Cave leads to three spacious chambers divided by calcite partitions and linked by narrow, twisting passageways. The cave’s interior features magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. Signs of archaeological digs are visible on the cave’s surface, with discarded stone tool fragments evident near the entrance where recent excavations have occurred. It is crucial to understand that removing such artifacts is strictly forbidden by Turkish law and subject to heavy penalties. As you approach the cave entrance along the mountain slope, you will encounter various niches and Greek inscriptions, which are vestiges of a religious sanctuary established during the era of colonization. Upon entering Karain Cave, visitors have the chance to explore numerous chambers and gain insight into how ancient humans lived thousands of years ago. These caves offered many benefits, including natural cooling during summer, shelter from harsh weather in winter, and a stable temperature year-round. The plain at the base of the mountain has been utilized for agriculture for centuries, though in prehistoric times it was mainly accessed by hunters and gatherers. Even now, the region is heavily farmed. The steep incline of the cave also provided strong defense, allowing inhabitants to easily spot any approaching threats. Due to its remarkable historical and cultural value, Karain Cave has been included on UNESCO’s Tentative List since 1994. For any questions or further information, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or simply send us a message via Whatsapp, and we will reply as soon as possible.