Tınaztepe Cave

Tınaztepe Cave is a large karstic cave located in Seydişehir, Konya. With a total length of 22 km and a traversable part of 1,580 metres, it is one of the longest caves in Turkey.

The cave extends horizontally and, except for a 65‑metre descent at the end, generally has a flat structure. Geological research indicates that the formation of the cave dates back to about 230 million years ago.

It was opened to tourism in 2004 and equipped with illuminated walking paths and social facilities.

Discovery

Tınaztepe Cave was discovered and scientifically mapped in 1968 by French speleologist Michel Bakalowichz. Bakalowichz suggested that the cave could be a natural treatment environment for asthma.

In 1970, famous marine researcher Jacques-Yves Cousteau, German mountaineer Reinhold Messner and their research team examined the underground water channels of Lake Suğla and its surroundings, discovering the underground connection between the Tınaztepe caves and Lake Suğla.

The water and lakes of the cave extend to a length of 22 km.

Structure

The cave was formed in a region of intense karstification, resulting from millions of years of erosion and chemical dissolution in limestone layers.

Inside, the height difference between the floor and the ceiling reaches up to 65 metres in places.

It contains rich geological formations such as stalactites, stalagmites and flowstones.

Tourism

The cave attracts both domestic and foreign tourists and is also important for health tourism, claimed to be beneficial for asthma patients. Picnic areas, restaurants and leisure facilities are also present around Tınaztepe Cave.