Mysteria
Verified36.7200° N · 30.5600° E · 80 m

Beldibi Rock Shelter

Beldibi Rock Shelter

Epipalaeolithic (14000–9000 BCE)·Epipalaeolithic·🇹🇷 Antalya Province, Kemer, Turkey

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About

About Beldibi Rock Shelter

Beldibi Rock Shelter in Antalya Province, Kemer, Turkey is a Epipalaeolithic (14000–9000 BCE) rock-shelter of Epipalaeolithic tradition. Sea-cliff shelter famous for Epipalaeolithic geometric rock paintings. 5 m. Excavations since the mid-20th c. expose sea-cliff shelter with ochre painted geometric panels architecture with diagnostic ceramics, lithics and administrative finds. Archaeobotany and radiocarbon anchor the sequence, informing regional Epipalaeolithic networks across the Antalya Province.

Threats include coastal erosion, tourism pressure, vandalism; research continues on Epipalaeolithic chronology.

Why it mattersType-site for Epipalaeolithic Epipalaeolithic (14000–9000 BCE) in Antalya Province, Kemer; key for chronology, technology and interaction.

Open questions

Mysteries & theories

Mysteries

  1. 01Chronology of Epipalaeolithic levels?
  2. 02Function of extramural cemetery?

Theories

  1. 01Demic diffusion vs local adoption
  2. 02Ritual aggregation centre

Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.

History

How it came to be

Built
c.14000 BCE
Period
Epipalaeolithic (14000–9000 BCE)
Culture
Epipalaeolithic
Purpose
Sea-cliff shelter famous for Epipalaeolithic geometric rock paintings
Excavation
Excavation ongoing

  1. c.14000 BCE

    Initial construction / first occupation

  2. c.1200 BCE

    Major expansion / fortification phase

  3. 20th c.

    Systematic excavation begins

On the ground

Structures & features

36.7200° N · 30.5600° E · 80 m · 3 mapped features

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