Discover Tekkeköy: Caves, Museum and History

Archaeology in the surrounding area

The Tekkeköy Caves are about one kilometre from the centre of Tekkeköy. They are a settlement site from the Palaeolithic and Chalcolithic periods, offering an insight into two prehistoric eras. Delikli Kaya is also nearby, at the intersection of the Çınarcık and Fındıcak valleys. The site overlooks both valleys and has been classified as a Late Phrygian fortress. The two archaeological sites offer different perspectives: the caves represent early settlement phases, while Delikli Kaya is a site classified as a fortress.

The cave landscape and its history

Sculptures in the Tekkeköy Mağaraları Arkeoloji Vadisi illustrate life at the time. The imitation museum there displays replicas of tools and historical finds from that period. The Tekkeköy Mağaraları Arkeoloji Vadisi Müze Evi also presents objects relating to life in and around the caves, as well as finds from excavations at the caves. Alongside the artefacts, everyday life and types of tools are also in focus.

Railway heritage and the city museum

The Tekkeköy Kent Müzesi is housed in historic railway station buildings in the Tekkeköy district. A railway station dating from the 1920s was restored and converted into a city museum. The museum displays tools and everyday objects from life on the Black Sea. Its exhibits also include roof tiles brought from France during the years when the station was built. The exhibitions explore the district’s socioeconomic structure and cultural heritage, while also tracing its history. The museum is set in the shade of plane trees around a hundred years old.

If you plan to visit the Tekkeköy Kent Müzesi, arrange an appointment in advance and ask about visitor numbers. The museum charges an admission fee. Confirm these visitor details before your arrival.

Religious heritage and historic sites

The tomb of Şeyh Zeynüddin is next to the mosque named after him in the centre of the Tekkeköy district. It is one of the religious sites visited by people exploring the district. Its history also includes the former social role of the tekke, which provided food for the poor, travellers and those in need. This historic function adds a perspective on caring for people on the move to the religious context.

Another historic stop is the windmill in Çırakman. It was built in the 1860s by Greeks living there. Tuğrul Çetin Nostalji Park is considered a landmark of the Tekkeköy district. It is set in the shade of plane trees around a hundred years old and was created by restoring historic railway station buildings. Restored railway station buildings are therefore part of the story of both the city museum and the park.

Hammam and travel planning

The Turkish Hammam is considered a health and wellness facility for the local population. Its amenities include a pool, sauna, salt room, steam room, massage room and plunge pool; there is also a café. Check current visiting arrangements before your visit, as facilities and operations may change.

Discover more destinations: Köseköy Köyü, Çarşamba, Dibekli Köyü, Samsun, Çakallı Köyü, Vezirköprü, Bafra, Alan Köyü.

Back to the overview of the wider destination: Samsun.