Ilgarini Cave

Ilgarini Cave is a cave located within the boundaries of Kastamonu Province, defined by its geological structure and the archaeological remains it contains. Due to its physical characteristics and traces of past human activity, it possesses both natural and historical significance. The cave is registered in national records with the status of “Natural Heritage” and is evaluated within the scope of conservation and development projects carried out by various international organizations.

Location and Geographic Features

The cave is situated in the Top Meydanı locality of Kazla Neighborhood, Sümenler Village, Pınarbaşı District, Kastamonu. Ilgarini is located 36 kilometers from the district center and lies within a forested terrain. Some sources also describe its location as near Yamanlar Village. The entrance opening has a natural arch shape, and its coordinates have been officially recorded by authorities.

Physical Structure and Cave Sections

According to measurements, the accessible length of the cave is 858 meters and its depth is 250 meters. Based on this depth data, it is recognized as the fourth deepest cave in the world. After the entrance, the cave path splits into two main branches. The right branch, which contains chambers and stalactite-stalagmite formations, is named the “Avizeli Salon”; this section also includes a damaged water cistern. The left branch descends from the entrance level to a depth of -250 meters.

Historical and Archaeological Findings

Investigations within the cave have revealed evidence of human use during historical periods. Artifacts dating to 2000 BCE have been found in the left branch, while structural remains assessed as belonging to the Byzantine period are present at the cave entrance. Interior sections contain chapels, cisterns, and burial structures associated with the Late Roman and Byzantine periods. Within the cave, a church ruin and seven graves are located on a flat area reached by a winding stone staircase. Reports indicate that these graves have suffered damage over time and human bones are visible on the surface.

Ilgarini Cave (Subgovernorship of Pınarbaşı, Republic of Türkiye)

Access and Arrival

Access to Ilgarini Cave is possible by vehicle up to the Top Meydanı locality in Kazla Neighborhood, Sümenler Village. From this point, a two-hour hike on a steep and rocky forest trail passing through Sorkun Yaylası is required. Technical caving equipment is necessary to proceed beyond the church ruin into deeper sections of the cave. Due to the forested nature of the region, local guiding services are recommended for visitors.

Conservation Status

Ilgarini Cave has been officially registered as a “Natural Heritage – Group A Cave” by decision of the Karabük Natural Heritage Protection Regional Commission and with the approval of the relevant ministry. Additionally, in cooperation between the Ministry of Forestry, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the cave has been designated as a pilot project area alongside the Kastamonu Valla Canyon.