Ayvaini Cave, Natural cave system in Nilüfer, Turkey
Ayvaini is an underground cave system in the Nilüfer region with two separate entrances located near Ayvaköy and Doğanalan villages. The network extends through limestone formations and contains numerous pools and subterranean waterways.
Spanish speleologists discovered the cave system in 1970, which sparked scientific investigation into its structure and natural features. These early explorations established the foundation for understanding how the site developed over time.
The cave holds meaning for people in nearby villages who have lived with it for generations and integrated it into their understanding of the land. This connection shapes how locals view and care for the natural landscape around them.
Entry requires preparation since the upper entrance involves a steep descent that demands special equipment and careful footing. Visitors should expect conditions to change with the seasons and water flow levels.
The cave system contains numerous natural pools whose water levels shift with seasonal snowmelt from the mountains. These changing water systems create an evolving landscape pattern that reveals the geological processes at work.
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