History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
Gökçeseki Ruins and Rock Tombs, within the borders of Gökçeseki Village of Ermenek district, is a rich archaeological area containing the necropolis and settlement ruins of the ancient city of 'Philadelphia', one of the important settlements of the ancient Isauria region. At the ruins dating back to the Roman and Early Byzantine periods; There are multi-storey rock tombs carved into limestone rocks, decorated monumental sarcophagi, cisterns and stepped sacred altar areas. It is believed among the local people that these rocks were a sacred mountain where legendary kings and heroic soldiers were buried in the past, and that the lion reliefs carved into the rocks were talismans protecting the necropolis. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
It is located on the Taşeli plateau of the Taurus Mountains, at an altitude of approximately 1,320 meters. Natural terraces formed by karst limestone rocks, steep slopes dominating the valley, and surrounding oak and juniper forests create a fascinating ancient natural landscape. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Visiting the ruins and rock tombs is completely free.•Visiting Hours and Days (Mandatory): It can be visited freely during daylight hours (08:00 - 19:00), 7 days a week.•Rules, Safety and Baby Stroller/Disabled Access: Sarcophagi and reliefs should not be damaged, care should be taken when climbing historical rocks. The terrain is uneven and rocky, making it not wheelchair and stroller accessible; Hiking boots are recommended.•Facilities and Facilities:There are no modern facilities in the archaeological area yet, but there are fountain, mosque and grocery facilities in Gökçeseki Village. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Gökçeseki Village Nekropol Mevkii, Ermenek / Karaman.•Road Condition and Vehicle Availability: It is approximately 12 km away from Ermenek town centre; The stabilized village road, which separates from the asphalt district road to the village, can be passed with careful driving by passenger vehicles.•Actual Public Transportation Information (Mandatory): You can reach Gökçeseki village from Ermenek district bus terminal by village shuttles departing at certain hours a day or by taxi from Ermenek center.•Parking Availability:Vehicles can be parked free of charge on the side of the village road at the entrance of the ruins. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photography Spots and Frames:The sarcophagus lids with lion reliefs and the frames overlooking the Taurus valley from the rock-carved mausoleum windows are unique.•Light and Shooting Hours:In the afternoon, when the sun shines at an oblique angle, the shadows of the limestone reliefs become clear and the most detailed photographs are obtained.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:Ermenek plateau butter, thyme honey, küncülü bun and Taşeli mountain thyme tea should be tried on your return from the trip.