Türkiye's Heritage: Natural Monuments

Our country has always managed to attract people's attention with its natural heritage. Each region has such captivating and awe-inspiring places that every year, people from many different countries travel for days to see these natural wonders. Our natural monuments are one of the lifelines of our tourism. People set out not just for a sun, sea, and sand vacation but also to see these mysterious, extraordinary areas and heritage we call natural monuments. So, we decided to list these extraordinary natural monuments in our country that have thousands of years of history. Here are the natural monuments of our country that inspire admiration.

Pamukkale Travertines

Pamukkale Travertines are perhaps one of the first places that come to mind in Türkiye in terms of natural formations. This magnificent natural landscape, along with the ancient city of Hierapolis, is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and always amazes its visitors. Dating back 400 years, Pamukkale, formed by the accumulation of thermal waters in the Büyük Menderes basin, attracts thousands of tourists every year. Pamukkale has 17 water sources with temperatures ranging from 35 to 100°C. Here, you can enjoy the warm and healing waters and watch the sunset with its magnificent view.

Fairy Chimneys

The fairy chimneys, one of the most popular natural formations in our country, hold a unique place not only with these natural formations but also with their unique scenery. The traditional Cappadocia houses carved into the rocks are extremely impressive. Exploring the caves and discovering the living spaces made of cut stones that have survived for hundreds of years is very enjoyable. The fairy chimneys have stood out as living spaces, churches, monasteries, and commercial establishments throughout their hundreds of years of history. There are many reasons to see these natural monuments that bear traces of the Paleolithic era.

Mount Nemrut

Mount Nemrut, with a height of 2,150 meters, is located within the borders of Kahta in Adıyaman. King Antiochus I of Commagene had monumental statues erected at the foot of this mountain to show his gratitude to the gods and his ancestors. The most magnificent structures of the most glorious times of the Hellenistic period can be seen here. The gigantic statues, 8-10 meters high, are made of limestone blocks. The statues here form the most important examples of Hellenistic, Persian art, and the unique art of the Commagene Kingdom. When it comes to natural monuments in Türkiye, Mount Nemrut is one of the first places that comes to mind.

Damlataş Cave

Damlataş Cave, located in the Alanya district of Antalya, offers an interesting view with its stalactites and stalagmites formed by calcareous water. Especially in summer, its cool structure attracts tourists' attention. Although its history dates back centuries, this famous cave was discovered by accident in 1948. After this discovery, the cave became extremely popular and has now become a tourist attraction. Tourists visiting Alanya line up to see this magnificent natural structure, walk inside it, and breathe the air believed to be good for asthmatics.

Tortum Waterfall

Tortum Waterfall, one of Türkiye's highest waterfalls, located in Erzurum, is one of the spots that mesmerizes people with its natural structure. The waterfall, which has a height of 48 meters, also has a terrace section built to provide a better view of the scenery. Here, you can feel the coolness of the roaring water and enjoy the natural landscape. Especially in the spring, when the waterfall is at its most abundant, it attracts the most interest from tourists. It should also be noted that there are many other natural areas around the waterfall to see.

Heaven and Hell Caves

The Heaven and Hell Caves, located in the Silifke district of Mersin, are a natural structure formed by chemical erosion caused by an underground river. The cave also has a captivating plant cover. Its history dates back to the 5th century, as there is still a church from that period inside the cave. This church is said to have been built by Saint Paul in dedication to the Virgin Mary. To descend into the Heaven Cave, you need to go down 452 steps, a long staircase built by the Roman Empire. You can visit the Heaven Cave, but the same cannot be said for the Hell Cave, as special equipment is required to descend into it. However, a terrace has been built at the top of the cave for tourists to view the scenery.

Van Lake

Lake Van, formed as a result of a volcanic eruption on Mount Nemrut, is one of the most important natural structures in our country. Structurally, it is volcanic and hard. There are four small islands on Lake Van. The salt level in the lake prevents it from freezing, even in the coldest times. Therefore, it stands out as a place that can be enjoyed in every season. If you want to see Lake Van more closely, it should be noted that boat tours are organized. With these boat tours, you can visit the islands on the lake.

Saklıkent Canyon

Saklıkent Canyon, one of the most popular tourist attractions in our country, is located within the borders of Fethiye and Kaş districts. The canyon, approximately 18 km long, was formed by the erosion of rocks by streams. While walking in the canyon, where you can witness the magnificent scenery of the Eşen Stream, you will feel like you are on an adventure. You can see many picnic and camping areas around the canyon. With its water sources and cool air, Saklıkent Canyon will take you on a comfortable and enjoyable journey.