Just a few years ago, speleologists discovered an ancient grotto in the vicinity of the Turkish town of Alanya. The research dragged on for 12 long years before the stone labyrinths could be opened to the public. From the day the cave was opened in 1998, its fame has swept across the world. Dim Cave became one of the main attractions not only in Alanya but in Turkey as a whole.
This fantastically beautiful cave is located above a river gorge surrounded by a pine forest. Even a walk in its area makes a lasting impression, let alone the ancient cave that has been around for over a million years. For several centuries thin streams of mountain springs were carving its stone labyrinth 410 metres long and a giant underground hall covering 200 square metres. Some passages are so low and thin that one must bend and literally squeeze between stone blocks. Moreover, there is one steep vertical descent almost 360 metres long.
However, all the obstacles that travellers have to encounter definitely pay off. The amazing natural landmark almost completely covered in curiously shaped stalagmites and stalactites can leave ecotourism enthusiasts and experienced speleologists equally impressed. People from all over the world come here to admire the masterpieces of nature, the most skilled sculptor and artist.
Just after a few stone steps, and “ancient pyramids”, “medieval castles” and soaring “dragons” unfold before visitors. Thousands of rock formations cast such peculiar shadows on the cave’s walls that imagination can’t help but create fairytale images and elaborate scenarios about the lives of fictional cave inhabitants. However, even that grandeur can’t compare to the beauty of the underground lake, the most prized pearl of the main hall of Dim Cave.