Kanlıdivane (Kanytelis)
Kanlıdivane
A giant sinkhole about 60 meters deep, ringed by Roman and Byzantine ruins including four churches, towers and fine sarcophagus tombs.
Kanlıdivane, meaning 'bloody madhouse' (legend says criminals were thrown into the pit to be devoured by beasts), is the ancient city of Kanytelis, about 3 km inland from the coastal village of Ayaş. At its center is a sinkhole about 90 meters across and 60 meters deep, with Roman-era reliefs on its walls. Around it lie Hellenistic towers, the ruins of four Byzantine churches, houses and numerous sarcophagi. Visitors are few, and walking all the way around the pit takes about an hour. Tickets are required, or the museum pass can be used. The site is about 10 km from Kızkalesi and can be combined with the Heaven and Hell sinkhole on the same day.
Opening hours
about 08:00–19:00 (earlier closing in winter)
Nearby sights
- Elaiussa Sebaste
- Korykos Land Castle
- Adamkayalar
- Kızkalesi (Maiden's Castle)
- Kızkalesi Beach
- Cennet and Cehennem Sinkholes
- Narlıkuyu Mosaic Museum
- Astım Cave (Wishing Cave)