“Cennet-Cehennem” (Korykion Antron) and Kanlıdivane (Kanytellis)

The geological structure of the region and its composition of limestone leads to main rocks being carved by underground water in time and the resulting collapses form enourmous potholes. That is how Cennet Cehennem and Kanlıdivane potholes were formed. There are many other potholes in the region which have similar characteristics.

These potholes were believed to be sacred since ancient times and in the pagan period temples, and after Christianity churches were built around or inside these potholes. Cennet Cehennem and Kanlıdivane potholes demonstrate these characteristics.

A church was built on one strand of the Cennet pothole, within the borders of Korykos, while a chapel was built inside the pothole in 5th or 6th century A.D. The inscription above the entrance reads that is was commisioned by a pious person named Paulus for the memory of Mother Mary. There is no cover on the roof of the chapel. Also, the apse on the east and two adjoining chambers are covered with a dome not visible from the outside. The inside of the dome is ornamented with the frescos depicting Jesus Christ and the apostles.

There are four churches dating back to the 5th-6th century A.D. built around the pothole in the city of Kanytellis, which was an episcopacy governed by the archdiocese of Silifke.

It is a clear indication of the sacred meaning attached to the pothole in ancient times that almost eight centuries before these churches were constructed, in the Hellenistic period, a tower in the honour of clergies had been built in the same place. In the base of the pothole some sporadic architectural remains can be seen; and these blocks make one think that, although there has not been any excavation, a structure, like a temple, is in existence.

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