Holes of the Dervishes / Dervish Cells

In Delikleri is a multi-room rock-cut structure located within the boundaries of Çemişgezek district, Tunceli Province, on the western slope of the Tahhar Çayı Valley. These formations, also referred to in local sources as “Dervish Cells” and “Urartian Caves,” are regarded as an important component of the region’s historical, cultural, and geological heritage.

In Delikleri is situated near the Yukarı Çarşı Neighborhood of Çemişgezek district center, carved into steep limestone cliffs. The complex consists of approximately twenty individual rooms arranged in a three-tiered layout, excavated directly into a natural rock massif. The rooms are interconnected by internal passageways and corridors, and some feature large window openings in their outer facades. Throughout the structure, rock-cut cisterns and small water reservoirs have been carved to collect seeping water from natural sources. These features indicate that In Delikleri was designed to support long-term habitation.

^{In Delikleri / Dervish Cells} (Culture Portal)

Each room in the complex measures on average 2.5 meters in width and 1.7 meters in depth. Staircases carved directly into the rock connect the different levels. The structure’s placement on a steep rock massif suggests it was positioned both for defense and observational purposes.

No definitive archaeological evidence has been established regarding the construction date or building process of In Delikleri. Some sources suggest that due to its architectural form and usage patterns, the structure may date to the Urartian period. However, this claim has not yet been scientifically verified. Alternative interpretations propose that the site consists of religious cells designed for ascetic or hermitic living, which explains why the local population refers to them as “Dervish Cells.”

^{In Delikleri / Dervish Cells} (Culture Portal)

As of 2020, under a project supported by the Fırat Development Agency, the tourism potential of In Delikleri was assessed. As part of this initiative, wooden walkways, a suspension bridge, lighting systems, and viewing platforms were designed to improve access to the site while preserving its natural and historical integrity. One of the project’s objectives is to integrate the structure into regional tourism and promote its visibility in a sustainable manner.

^{In Delikleri / Dervish Cells} (Culture Portal)

In Delikleri holds a significant place within Tunceli’s cultural landscape and represents a noteworthy example in settlement archaeology, both in terms of its architectural design and patterns of use. Interpretations suggesting its possible use for religious, military, or observational purposes indicate that it may have served multiple functions. Currently, In Delikleri remains an open site for academic research and cultural heritage conservation strategies.

^{In Delikleri / Dervish Cells} (Culture Portal)