Pileki Cave

Pileki Cave

Pileki Cave is renowned for producing a unique kitchen implement typical of the Black Sea region—a round, hollow bowl crafted from a special kind of stone. This stone is quarried and shaped directly from Pileki Cave located in Iyidere Çiftlikköy, where the tradition of making this distinctive cooking vessel has been carried on for thousands of years. Due to this extensive extraction and crafting activity, Pileki Cave is considered a man-made cave.

Pileki Cave

The cave features two large entry chambers, followed by a network of tunnels leading to underground wells and lakes. Recently, the cave has undergone restoration and lighting, enhancing its appeal as a favored destination for visitors.

To prepare food using the Pileki, it is initially placed on a trivet and heated over an open flame. After warming, it is covered with a large cabbage or banana leaf and then wrapped in the dough of anchovy bread or cornbread. The top is sealed with sheet metal before being buried in hot ashes within the hearth. Cooking continues by rekindling the fire above. Additionally, wheat flour dough may be used to bake bread inside the Pileki.

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