This article was automatically translated from the original Turkish version.
Kırıkkale is one of our provinces that stands out due to its historical, cultural, and natural heritage. Its geographical location has witnessed many periods of history, and the province also comes to the fore through its cultural activities and natural beauty.
Sulu Cave, located in the Arzu Bayırı area of Keskin district in Kırıkkale, is a cave with a semi-natural, semi-artificial structure, situated at a doline. The cave extends horizontally for a total length of 285 metres. Lead mining was carried out throughout history in its three-level galleries. The passages connecting the natural and artificial sections are covered with walls constructed during the Early Christian Period.
Hydrologically, the cave lies within a vadoze zone and is completely dry except during rainy periods. Pits up to two metres deep were constructed to collect water formed during these periods. The cave, with its dry and warm climate, has been opened to visitors following renovations carried out by the Kırıkkale Governorate and Provincial Special Administration.
The Sulu Cave is located in the Arzu Bayırı area of Altıntaş Village in Keskin district, on the south-western slope of Karpuzbayırı Hill. Research conducted by the General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration (MTA) in 1996 determined that the cave has a semi-natural, semi-artificial structure and that the thickness of its ceiling varies between 10 and 18 metres. Surrounding the cave are a mosque, a fountain, and various other structures. The Sulu Cave, with its architectural and electrification projects completed, has been opened to visitors as an archaeological site under the Ankara Museum of Anatolian Civilizations Directorate.
In Kırıkkale, more than twenty events are held annually to preserve and transmit spiritual, historical and cultural values to future generations. Nowruz, Hıdrellez, the celebrations marking the foundation of Kırıkkale province, and the International Karakeçili Culture Festival are among the prominent events in this context. Additionally, the Ahi Culture Week and various artistic activities are also included.
In the province, traditional decorative arts such as Tezhip, Ceramics, Tel Kırma and Elde Tel Sarma are taught through courses. In Kırıkkale, 143 different sites including mosques, mound, and archaeological sites are protected as historical building and areas.
The history of Kırıkkale extends back to the Hittites, and archaeological studies have identified 21 mounds and settlement sites. These findings demonstrate that the province has been home to numerous civilizations throughout history. Artifacts uncovered during excavations at the Kaletepe and Kapulukaya dam sites reveal that Kırıkkale was an ancient settlement centre.
Ballı Mosque and Tomb: Built in the 14th century, it is notable for its original tree craftsmanship.
Koçubaba Mosque and Tomb: A structure detailed extensively in Evliya Çelebi’s Seyahatname, notable for its subterranean architecture.
Haydar Sultan Mosque and Tomb: Located on a külliye dating back to the Roman-Byzantine period, it holds an important place in mystical traditions.
Additionally, spiritual tombs frequently visited by the public, such as the Küçükafşar Tomb, Tokuş Father Tomb, and Halil Dede Tomb, are integral parts of Kırıkkale’s cultural fabric.
Kırıkkale also possesses rich natural areas. The valleys of the Kızılırmak and Delice Rivers, the Balışeyh and Bahşılı plateaus, Hasandede Park, the Kızılırmak Green Valley Project Area, and Deliklitaş Forest İçi are ideal destinations for nature lovers. The MKEK Swimming Pools, as well as parks and recreational areas owned by various municipalities, are also open natural relaxation spaces.
Located southwest of Kırıkkale city centre, Karaahmetli Nature Park lies along the shore of the Kapulukaya Dam Lake. With 95 percent of its area covered by steppe, the site was declared a Nature Park in 2009. The park, rich in flora and fauna, has been found to host seven endemic plant species, as well as 63 bird, 12 reptile, and 15 mammal species. Moreover, the Kapulukaya Dam Lake provides a habitat for the endangered water samur.
Karaahmetli Nature Park, equipped with picnic areas, observation terraces, game areas and nature walking trails, is a highly suitable space for those seeking an immersive experience with nature.
The Weapons Museum in Kırıkkale displays weapons from the Ottoman Empire and Europe dating between the 15th and 20th centuries. Established in 1991, this museum has been enriched with weapons collected from Tophane, various regions of Anatolia, and military factories. The museum offers a unique collection for visitors interested in the history of weaponry.
Sulu Cave and Underground City
Cultural Activities and Historical Heritage
Prominent Historical Structures
Recreational Areas and Natural Beauties
Karaahmetli Nature Park
Museums