Meke Crater Lake
Meke Gölü
A unusual landform in which a volcanic cone rises from within a volcanic crater; called the 'Eye of the World,' the lake has shrunk dramatically in recent years
Meke Lake lies near Karapınar and is a maar volcanic crater, with a black volcanic cone rising from its centre. When the water surrounds the cone it resembles an eye, and it has been called the 'Evil Eye of the World'. Due to groundwater overextraction and drought, the lake surface has shrunk sharply since 2008. In most years it has nearly dried up, with only a little water after the rainy season, so lower your expectations before you go. You can hike along the crater rim to take in the view. Entry is free. It is about 100 km from Konya and can be combined with a visit to the Acıgöl crater lake near Karapınar.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Sultanhanı Caravanserai
- Çatalhöyük
- Mevlana Cultural Centre
- Konya Panorama Museum
- İzzet Koyunoğlu City Museum
- Mevlana Museum
- Selimiye Mosque
- Aziziye Mosque