🏞️ Tekkeköy Caves Archaeology Valley – The Hidden Historical Treasure of the Black Sea
📍 General Information
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🌍 Location: Tekkeköy district, Samsun, approximately 25 km from the city center.
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🏗️ Significance: One of Turkey’s oldest known human settlements.
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⚒️ Description: The caves contain traces from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Chalcolithic periods, with numerous archaeological finds including stone tools, bones, and pottery.

🕰️ Historical Background
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🗿 Stone Age: Early humans used the caves as shelters.
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🌾 Neolithic & Chalcolithic Periods: Communities practiced agriculture and animal husbandry in the region.
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📜 Excavations: Archaeological digs started in the 1940s, making Tekkeköy one of Turkey’s first cave excavation sites.

🏗️ Key Features
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🏞️ Cave Systems: Over 20 caves and natural shelters provide insight into ancient human life.
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⚱️ Archaeological Finds: Stone tools, bones, ceramics, and everyday objects are displayed for visitors.
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🌿 Natural Environment: Surrounded by lush forests, offering hiking and nature exploration opportunities.
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🏛️ Archaeology Valley: Functions as an open-air museum, combining history and nature for an immersive experience.

🌟 Touristic Importance
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Ideal for archaeology enthusiasts, history students, and nature lovers.
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Visitors can explore the caves and observe traces of human life dating back to the Stone Age.
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Tekkeköy Caves play a key role in preserving Samsun’s cultural heritage and the historical values of the Black Sea region.

🕒 Visitor Information (2025)
| ℹ️ Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 🗓️ Open Days | Every day |
| ⏰ Visiting Hours | 08:30 – 18:00 |
| 🎟️ Entrance Fee | 40 TL (Museum Pass valid) |
| 📍 Location | Tekkeköy, Samsun |
| 🚗 Access | Approximately 25 km from the city center; accessible by private car or organized tours |








