🏞️ Tekkeköy Caves Archaeology Valley – The Hidden Historical Treasure of the Black Sea

📍 General Information

  • 🌍 Location: Tekkeköy district, Samsun, approximately 25 km from the city center.

  • 🏗️ Significance: One of Turkey’s oldest known human settlements.

  • ⚒️ Description: The caves contain traces from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Chalcolithic periods, with numerous archaeological finds including stone tools, bones, and pottery.


🕰️ Historical Background

  • 🗿 Stone Age: Early humans used the caves as shelters.

  • 🌾 Neolithic & Chalcolithic Periods: Communities practiced agriculture and animal husbandry in the region.

  • 📜 Excavations: Archaeological digs started in the 1940s, making Tekkeköy one of Turkey’s first cave excavation sites.


🏗️ Key Features

  • 🏞️ Cave Systems: Over 20 caves and natural shelters provide insight into ancient human life.

  • ⚱️ Archaeological Finds: Stone tools, bones, ceramics, and everyday objects are displayed for visitors.

  • 🌿 Natural Environment: Surrounded by lush forests, offering hiking and nature exploration opportunities.

  • 🏛️ Archaeology Valley: Functions as an open-air museum, combining history and nature for an immersive experience.


🌟 Touristic Importance

  • Ideal for archaeology enthusiasts, history students, and nature lovers.

  • Visitors can explore the caves and observe traces of human life dating back to the Stone Age.

  • 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