Despite being designated as a protected area in 2021, the "Forty Windowed Caves" in the Karayazı district of Erzurum continue to preserve remnants of the past.

Despite the discovery of traces of structures such as churches, tandoors, rooms, and wine cellars in these distinctive caves in the village of Aşağı Çıkılgan, a comprehensive research was initiated under the coordination of the Erzurum Governorship to ascertain the period of origin and the individuals who utilized them. Expert teams from Atatürk University will conduct the investigation.

The caverns were incorporated into the tourism routes of Erzurum, which was designated the "2025 Tourism Capital," after they were registered by the Erzurum Cultural Heritage Protection Regional Directorate in 2021. In his statement, Erzurum Governor Mustafa Çiftçi underscored the significance of uncovering the region's concealed attractions.

Governor Çiftçi: "The economy will also benefit from the implementation of such structures."

The Kırk Pencereli Caves in Aşağı Çıkılgan village of Karayazı district were visited by Governor Mustafa Çiftçi, who made the following statements:

"This location is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,000 meters and is a truly remarkable location." Historically, these locations were challenging to access as a result of terrorist attacks in the area. Nevertheless, the security of these lands has been completely guaranteed by our state. The conversion of these areas into tourist destinations is generating economic benefits for the local populace.

Rector Hacımüftüoğlu: "Atatürk University's Research Illuminates the Path"

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, the Rector of Atatürk University, evaluated the studies to be conducted on the Forty Window Caves and emphasized the significance of exposing the region's historical patrimony in terms of both academics and tourism. The following was stated by Rector Hacımüftüoğlu:

"Erzurum is a city that is distinguished by its natural beauty and historical riches." At Atatürk University, we are engaged in a variety of initiatives to safeguard, document, and introduce these values to the tourism industry. Unique structures, such as the Forty Window Caves, bear the imprint of the past on the present. The information that will be obtained will not only illuminate the region's history but also enhance Erzurum's tourism potential.

"Erzurum is a City with Great Potential in Terms of Tourism"

Rector Hacımüftüoğlu stated that the "Forty Window Caves" in Aşağı Çıkılgan village in Karayazı district are noteworthy for their remarkable structure. He further stated, "The caves' carving into a rocky slope demonstrates the coexistence of natural formations and human-influenced areas." Traces such as churches, tandoors, rooms, and wine cellars within the caverns indicate that this location may have been a settlement or an area used for religious purposes in the past.

Hacımüftüoğlu asserted that the Forty Window caverns are not only historical but also of touristic value due to the captivating view of the geography in the vicinity of the caverns that is revealed by the golden tones when combined with the sunset. I am of the opinion that the research that our university will conduct will illuminate the cultural and historical significance of these caverns in the past, as well as make a significant contribution to Erzurum's designation as the "2025 Tourism Capital." The revitalization of the local economy and the preservation of cultural heritage will be achieved by opening the region to tourism. The cave is a significant indicator of the remarkable potential of the region's distinctive wonders. In this context, I am of the opinion that the research that will be conducted under the supervision of our university will provide insight into the past.

20.11.2024 - Corporate Communications Directorate