Yanartaş

Yanartaş is a natural geological formation caused by methane gas emerging from beneath the earth’s surface and escaping through rocky terrain in the form of flames. Ancient sources associate this natural phenomenon with the myth of the Chimera in Greek mythology.

Yanartaş is located within the boundaries of Çıralı Village, in the district of Arch, province of Antalya. The site is situated approximately 1 kilometer from Çıralı Beach and lies at an elevation of about 250 meters above sea level. Access to Yanartaş, which is within the boundaries of the Olympos-Beydağları Coastal National Park, is possible via footpaths and staircases.

Yanartaş (AA)

Historical Significance

Yanartaş has been recorded as one of the important natural and cultural features of the ancient Lycian region. The continuous flames emerging from the rocks in the area are associated with the myth of the Chimera in Greek mythology. Additionally, the site contains a church dating to the Roman period and several historical inscriptions. Due to these characteristics, Yanartaş is recognized as an area of historical and archaeological interest.

Geological Features

The flames rise from various points between the rocks and burn continuously throughout the year. This feature makes Yanartaş unique from both geological and natural history perspectives. The site lies within the boundaries of the Olympos-Beydağları Coastal National Park, and due to the high concentration of natural gas emissions, multiple flame points are observable on the surface. This ensures the continuous combustion characteristic of Yanartaş.

Natural Gas Emission and Continuity

The gas emerging from between the rocks in the Yanartaş region consists largely of methane. When this gas comes into contact with oxygen, it ignites spontaneously and produces flames continuously throughout the year. The flames burn both day and night and are observable by visitors throughout the year. This characteristic defines Yanartaş as a geological site with a persistent natural gas emission.

Yanartaş (Kemer Municipality)

Mythological and Cultural Context

In antiquity, Yanartaş was associated with the legendary creature known as the “Chimera.” According to Greek mythology, the Chimera was a monstrous being that breathed fire and was slain by the Lycian hero Bellerophon, riding the winged horse Pegasus. This myth is directly linked to the ever-burning flames at Yanartaş. Today, some local and international visitors perform religious rituals or symbolic practices in the areas where the natural gas emissions occur.

Protection Status and Legal Framework

In 2021, Yanartaş was officially registered as a “strictly protected sensitive area” by presidential decree. This decision was published in the Official Gazette and entered into force. Under this status, the site is protected by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change. As a result of this change in status, human activities in the area have been restricted, and monitoring procedures have been initiated by the relevant administrative authorities.

Yanartaş (Kemer Municipality)

Tourism Use and Visitor Interaction

Yanartaş is visited year-round by both domestic and international tourists. Visitors, particularly in the evening hours when the visibility of the flames increases, show strong interest in the site. Some visitors conduct brief observations and studies in the areas where flames emerge from the rocks. Additionally, there have been instances where visitors have used the flames to heat or cook food.

Yanartaş (Kemer Municipality)