The Titus Tunnel in Hatay's Samandağ district is a 1,380-meter structure carved into the mountain during the Roman period to protect the ancient city of Seleucia Pieria from floods; nearby is Beşikli Cave, consisting of rock-cut tombs.
To visit Hatay and not see the Titus Tunnel means leaving without understanding the ambitious engineering feats of the Roman era. This tunnel, situated in the Çevlik region of Samandağ, overlooking the sea, is 1,380 meters long, 7 meters high, and 6 meters wide, entirely carved into the mountain. The purpose of its construction was to divert floodwaters that were destroying the ancient port and city of Seleucia Pieria to the sea. Walking inside the tunnel, it's possible to see light shafts piercing the ceiling, pickaxe marks, and water erosion on the walls; visitors often express being deeply impressed when they consider that this structure was hand-carved thousands of years ago.
After exiting the tunnel, a walk of approximately 10 minutes leads to Beşikli Cave, a necropolis area composed of rock-cut tombs. Located to the right of the tunnel's sea-facing entrance, this cave attracts visitors with its carved tomb niches and water channels; it is a particular point of interest for those interested in ancient tomb architecture. A recurring theme in visitor comments is the maintenance of the area: it is noted that the entrance and exit paths are challenging, and some of the informational signs have become unreadable. Despite this, the historical atmosphere and scenery are generally well-received.
Related discoveries: Historical Sites, Hatay historical sites, Payas Castle.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Titus Tunnel and Beşikli Cave is during April-May and September-October. During these periods, Hatay's humid and hot climate has not yet reached oppressive levels. In summer, the inside of the tunnel naturally remains cool; however, the open area during the walk to the tunnel entrance and Beşikli Cave can be quite hot. Preferring morning hours offers advantages in terms of both light and crowds.
How to Get There
The site is located in the Çevlik area of Samandağ district, approximately 35-40 km from Hatay city center. Coming by private car is the easiest option; from Hatay center, you can reach Samandağ and then Çevlik by following road signs and navigation apps. For those wishing to come by public transport, minibus services are available from Samandağ to Çevlik. Renting a car from Hatay Airport is also a frequently preferred method.
Suggested Route
It is logical to start the visit with the Titus Tunnel; after walking through the tunnel to the other end, you can reach Beşikli Cave with an approximately 10-minute walk. Don't miss the view overlooking the sea from the tunnel exit. Since the ancient Seleucia Pieria port ruins are also located in the Çevlik area, you can visit these ruins for the rest of the day. Various options for lunch are available on the Samandağ coast.
Photography Spots
Both entrances of the tunnel are ideal for dramatic photographs; especially the light-shadow contrast obtained from an angle looking out from inside the tunnel offers striking shots. The light shafts in the tunnel ceiling also provide an interesting perspective. The rock-cut tomb niches in Beşikli Cave contain beautiful details for close-up photography. The view overlooking the Samandağ coast from the sea-facing entrance of the tunnel also holds photographic value.
Food and Drink
Visitor comments indicate that purchasing from vendors within the area is not recommended. When you return to Samandağ town center, you can find local restaurants offering fine examples of Mediterranean cuisine. For hummus, muhammara, and künefe, symbols of Hatay cuisine, local establishments in Samandağ and Antakya can be preferred.
Things to Note
Visitors frequently state that only cash payment is accepted at the entrance; carry sufficient cash with you. Museum Pass holders can use their cards. There are comments about the entrance and exit paths being uneven and poorly maintained; therefore, comfortable and sturdy-soled shoes are essential. Since the inside of the tunnel may contain dark sections, it is recommended to have a flashlight or phone flashlight ready. It is also noted that some of the information signs are unreadable.
How Much Time to Allocate
A 2-3 hour visit is sufficient for Titus Tunnel and Beşikli Cave. If you wish to visit other ancient ruins in the Çevlik area, you can add another half-day to this. The site can be combined with other historical places in Hatay (Antakya, Harbiye Waterfall) to create a full-day itinerary.
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