Blog

Manazan Caves in Karaman

Manazan Caves in Karaman

Manazan Caves in Karaman

Manazan Caves in Karaman

The Manazan Caves, which are thought to be the first collective life residences, are on the east of Yeşildere Valley, on the side of the Karaman-Yeşidere Taşkale road. It is 20 kilometers away from Karaman. The fact that these caverns were built on a highly regular and high ground is the most important element of these caves, which are said to have been carved by human hands. From a historical standpoint, it appears to have been carved in the 6th or 7th centuries during the Byzantine Period. Thanks to this cave, where there are many rooms, tombs, and even windows, belief types have also been studied. Moreover, when it is considered multi-layered, it proves how old the history of windows is.

Although it is seen as a miracle that it has survived from ancient times to the present, we see the importance of using quality materials. The entrance of the cave is not known exactly as a result of damages. But it has been proven by archaeologists and experienced experts that caves are chapels. The fact that these structures, which were determined to be made of clayey limestone, act as a shelter by protecting the heat and humidity surprises the experts. Knowing that this method dates back to the 6th and 7th centuries makes Manazan more valuable.

Manazan, which has an important place in nature tourism, is also of great importance for Christians. The chapels and the church in the cave system are proof that they performed their religious worship here.

The fact that these caves were built in this way, and moreover, that they were all compressed into a small area, is considered an indication that the people of the period might have been at war. However, there is no evidence for this situation.

Although the caves are not used as settlements, they are used to store foods such as wheat and cheese due to their protection. Despite not being a tourist destination as a city, visitors have increased in the last three years as a result of a documentary about the Manazan Caves that was produced years ago.