Mount Chimaera

Natural gas vents on Mount Chimaera create perpetual flames emerging from rock crevices along the mountain slopes near the Mediterranean coast.

Ancient Lycians established temples around these eternal flames during the Hellenistic period, using them for religious ceremonies and navigation.

Greek mythology links these flames to the Chimera monster, a fire-breathing creature with parts of a lion, goat, and serpent.

The site is accessible through a 1-kilometer walking path from Cirali village, with wooden railings and stone steps leading to viewing platforms.

These methane-fueled flames continue burning even during rainfall, creating distinct patterns across more than twenty vents on the mountainside.

GPS coordinates: 36.43139,30.45583

Latest update: May 16, 2025 11:55