Çanakçı rock tombs, Roman rock-cut tombs in Erdemli, Turkey.
The Çanakçı rock tombs are chambers carved into stone along Turkey's Mediterranean coast. Each tomb has a rectangular entrance sealed with stone blocks and holds three burial spaces inside.
These tombs were created during the 2nd century AD under Roman rule. They formed part of the western cemetery of the ancient settlement Kanlıdivane.
The carved figures above the entrances show people in Roman dress and poses, including soldiers and resting figures. These images tell us what people looked like and their place in society at that time.
The site is in a hilly area near the coast and is best visited when visibility is good. Sturdy shoes are advisable due to rocky ground and uneven surfaces.
Ancient inscriptions preserve the names of two people buried here: Appas and Hekataios. The tombs also carry warnings against grave robbery with fines owed to local temples.
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