Asarkale Rock Tombs
Ancient Hellenistic rock tombs carved into cliffs along the Kızılırmak River, offering historical intrigue and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for roadside views
Asarkale Rock Tombs
Best Time
Best light for roadside views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient Hellenistic rock tombs carved into cliffs along the Kızılırmak River, offering historical intrigue and natural beauty.
"Brilliant place full of nature and with many different things to do such as river, hiking and those steps which move through the rocks."
Roadside Viewing Only
Entry is prohibited due to excavations. Admire the tombs and structure from the roadside. :camerawithflash:
Bring Your Own Comfort
No seating or facilities available. Pack chairs and a table if you plan to linger. 🪑
Quick Facts
Rating
4.5 · 348 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hellenistic Defense Structure
Kızılırmak Valley
Impressive ancient structure carved into steep rock walls, built for defense during the Hellenistic period.
Rock-Carved Tombs
Along Kızılırmak River
Three stunning tombs meticulously carved into the sheer rock faces, offering a glimpse into ancient burial practices.
Panoramic River Views
Roadside overlook
Take in breathtaking, panoramic vistas of the Kızılırmak River and the surrounding valley from the accessible roadside.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Current Status
What to Expect on Arrival
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Roadside Viewing Only
Entry is prohibited due to excavations. Admire the tombs and structure from the roadside. :camerawithflash:
Bring Your Own Comfort
No seating or facilities available. Pack chairs and a table if you plan to linger. 🪑
Explore Nearby River
A rock tomb on the opposite side of the river is accessible and worth a visit. 🏞️
Combine with Dam Visit
The Altınkaya Dam is nearby and offers natural beauty. 🏞️
Tips
from all over the internet
Roadside Viewing Only
Entry is prohibited due to excavations. Admire the tombs and structure from the roadside. :camerawithflash:
Bring Your Own Comfort
No seating or facilities available. Pack chairs and a table if you plan to linger. 🪑
Explore Nearby River
A rock tomb on the opposite side of the river is accessible and worth a visit. 🏞️
Combine with Dam Visit
The Altınkaya Dam is nearby and offers natural beauty. 🏞️
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Asarkale Rock Tombs are praised for their brilliant natural setting and impressive ancient rock-carved structures, offering a glimpse into historical settlements. However, visitors are currently unable to enter the site due to ongoing excavations, and the lack of facilities means bringing your own comfort is essential.
"Brilliant place full of nature and with many different things to do such as river, hiking and those steps which move through the rocks. Interesting to see how settlements lived many years ago, unfortunately however as a foreigner I have found many beautiful beaches, coves, lakes, rivers and mountains all full of rubbish which people leave which is shocking really considering the natural beauty of the country."
James Stanley
"Closed. Entry prohibited. 24-7 surveillance"
movinon
"It hasn't opened yet, and I've only seen it from the outside.
Located in the Kızılırmak Valley, 30 kilometers from the Bafra district, Asarkale is an impressive ancient structure built for defense purposes during the Hellenistic period. Home to three stunning rock tombs carved into the steep rock walls along the Kızılırmak River, Asarkale is a popular destination for historical tours in Samsun. Located 300 meters above sea level, you can climb up to the castle through tunnels carved into the rock, allowing you to explore the intriguing castle and take in panoramic views of the Kızılırmak River. Take a short stroll along the river to take photos of the stunning rock tombs."
KoSeKu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Asarkale Rock Tombs are located in the Kızılırmak Valley, about 30 kilometers from the Bafra district. From the Bafra district exit towards Samsun's Sinop, turn left at the Çetinkaya sign. After approximately 25 kilometers, you will see the ruins on the right side of the road.
Information on direct public transportation is limited. It's recommended to travel by car or hire a taxi from Bafra or Samsun for easier access to the roadside viewing area.
The most convenient way to reach Asarkale is by private vehicle, as it allows you to stop at the roadside for viewing and explore nearby areas like the Altınkaya Dam.
While there might be local signage, it's advisable to use GPS navigation to ensure you reach the correct turn-off from the main road.
Asarkale Rock Tombs are approximately 30 kilometers from the Bafra district, which is itself a distance from Samsun city center. Plan for a journey of over an hour depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Asarkale Rock Tombs is currently prohibited due to ongoing archaeological excavations and 24/7 surveillance. Visitors can only view the site from the roadside.
The site is not open for public entry. While the exterior can be viewed from the roadside at any time, access to the tombs and the structure itself is restricted.
Since the site is closed to visitors, there is no admission fee. You can view the exterior from the roadside without charge.
There is no confirmed reopening date for Asarkale Rock Tombs. The closure is due to archaeological work, and updates on its status are not readily available.
Official information regarding the excavation status and potential reopening is scarce. Local authorities or archaeological bodies would be the primary source for such updates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can see impressive rock-carved tombs and a Hellenistic defense structure built into the steep rock walls. The surrounding Kızılırmak Valley and river offer beautiful natural scenery.
While you can't access the main site, there are opportunities for short strolls along the riverbank to take photos of the rock tombs from a distance.
No, there are no facilities for food, drink, or restrooms at the roadside viewing area. It's recommended to bring your own supplies.
Viewing from the roadside is generally safe. However, be mindful of traffic as the site is located along a road.
The best photographic opportunities are from the roadside, capturing the tombs against the natural backdrop of the cliffs and river. Consider visiting during daylight hours for optimal lighting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit