Damlataş Cave

Damlataş Cave was discovered in 1948 during the excavation of a stone quarry for the construction of the port in the Alanya district of Antalya Province. The cave is located on the western coast of the Alanya Peninsula, near the historic Alanya Castle.

Damlataş Cave. (Alanya Municipality)

Physical Characteristics

The entrance of the cave features a passage 50 meters in length, with a height reaching up to 15 meters. Beyond this passage, a cylindrical chamber is encountered, leading down to the cave floor. The cave is formed within crystalline limestone. The stalactites and stalagmites inside are estimated to have formed over approximately 15,000 years. The cave is named “Damlataş” due to the continuous dripping of water droplets from its ceiling.

Damlataş Cave. (Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Türkiye)

Climate and Air Composition

The internal climate of Damlataş Cave remains constant throughout the year.

Temperature: 22 °C

Humidity: 95%

Pressure: 760 mmHg

The air inside the cave contains the following components:

71% Nitrogen

20.5% Oxygen

2.5 parts per ten thousand Carbon Dioxide

Low levels of radioactivity and ions are also present.

Therapeutic Use

The air of Damlataş Cave is used under medical supervision for therapeutic purposes in asthma patients. Specific treatment programs lasting 21 days involve sitting inside the cave for a set duration each day. These programs are based on the cave’s stable temperature, humidity, and ionic composition.

Tourism and Environmental Features

Damlataş Cave is Türkiye’s first cave opened to tourism. Entry to the cave, which attracts both domestic and international visitors, is charged. A small beach lies in front of the cave, and a modest market surrounds the area.