Heaven and Hell Caves
Heaven and Hell Caves in Kizkalesi, Turkey
The Heaven and Hell Caves are located near the resort village of Kizkalesi on the Mediterranean coast, next to the ruins of ancient Korykos. This is one of the most famous natural landmarks in this part of Mersin Province: two large karst sinkholes formed in limestone rocks and have attracted attention since antiquity because of their unusual relief.
The sinkhole known as Hell is deeper and looks more severe: its walls are almost sheer, and the bottom is usually inaccessible for ordinary visits. It was associated with ancient myths, including the legend of the monster Typhon. Today, visitors usually view this part of the complex from above, from a specially equipped platform.
The Heaven sinkhole is open to visitors. A long staircase leads down, and as you descend it becomes noticeable how the air changes: below it is cooler, more humid, and there is more greenery. At the bottom, the remains of an early Christian temple have been preserved, often referred to as the Church of the Virgin Mary, and farther on there is a cave with an underground spring and a distinctive play of light on the damp walls.
The site is interesting for several reasons at once: as a natural landmark, as a monument to ancient ideas about the underworld, and as a site of early Christian heritage. A trip here is often combined with a visit to Kizkalesi Castle and the archaeological remains of Korykos, so the complex is well suited to a short route around the area.
Heaven and Hell Caves on the map
Heaven and Hell Caves and karst sinkholes near Kizkalesi
Here, karst sinkholes, ancient ruins, and an underground spring can be seen side by side.
Karst sinkholes, ancient myths, and a temple deep in the chasm
During a visit, the main part of the route passes through the Heaven sinkhole. The descent along the stone steps takes time and requires comfortable shoes, especially in hot weather, but it is at the bottom that the features of the local karst relief are best seen. Here the difference is noticeable between the dry surface and the more humid environment below, where the vegetation is denser and the temperature is usually slightly lower.
At the bottom, you can explore the ruins of a small Byzantine church, partially built into the natural depression. Fragments of the architecture and remains of wall paintings have been preserved, although their condition depends on preservation conditions and lighting. Farther on, the route leads to the cave section, where an underground stream can be heard and damp limestone surfaces can be seen.
The Hell sinkhole is located very close by, but it is perceived differently: it is above all a viewpoint from which the scale of the chasm and the shape of its walls can be clearly seen. For many visitors, the contrast between the two neighboring karst formations is of particular interest - one is accessible for descent, while the other almost entirely remains an object of external viewing. Nearby are also the ruins of Korykos and the sea fortress of Kizkalesi.
The easiest way to get here is by car or taxi from the center of Kizkalesi; the journey takes little time. In summer, it is better to come in the morning or closer to the evening, as it can be very hot on the stairs and in open areas.
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