What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Mersin? A deep blue sea, miles of sandy beaches, and the sweet scent of orange groves? Yes, all true, but Mersin's real secrets are hidden beneath the ground. Have you ever imagined descending tens of meters underground to breathe in cool, moist air as a remedy for your lungs? Escaping the city's noise and pollution to take refuge in the silence of a natural wonder formed over thousands of years... This experience is at the very top of the list of things to do in Asthma Cave. This isn't just a tourist spot; it's a mysterious underworld that will be a feast for both your eyes and your breath.

Visit this healing cave, accessible by a spiral staircase

As you leave the bright Mediterranean sun behind and approach the cave's entrance, you're first greeted by trees with colorful cloths tied to their branches. This is the first sign that Asthma Cave, famous for its healing air, is also a "Wish Cave." Visitors whisper their wishes for health and happiness onto these cloths, making their hopes a part of nature.   

The real adventure begins with the famous spiral iron staircase that will take you about 15 meters underground. This staircase isn't just a means to reach the cave floor; it's like a portal to another dimension. With every step you take, the sound from the metal steps pierces the millennia-old silence, and the warmth and light of the outside world give way to a dim mystery and coolness. Each turn takes you further from the modern world and closer to the heart of nature's masterpiece.   

We've gathered everything you need to know before embarking on this unique journey. Remember, a good plan is half of a great trip!

Believe that the air with high humidity is good for asthma patients

So, why is this cave called "Asthma Cave"? Is it just a legend, or is there some truth to it? The moment you step inside, you'll feel the answer in your lungs. No matter the temperature outside, the inside of the cave remains at a constant 14°C year-round. More importantly, the humidity level is incredible, reaching up to 95% in the winter.   

This phenomenon actually has a scientific name: Speleotherapy, or cave therapy. The air inside the cave doesn't contain pollen, dust, and other allergens like the outside world. Instead, it acts like a therapy room, moisturizing your lungs like a natural steam machine. This clean, moist air can soothe the respiratory tract, making breathing easier.   

It's not just us saying it; visitors feel the same. Many who come here often mention that their breathing becomes much easier and they feel refreshed by the clean oxygen. Some even report that their use of medication has decreased after spending regular time in the cave. Of course, this is not a medical treatment, but this supportive and relaxing atmosphere offered by nature is definitely worth experiencing.   

Feel the atmosphere created by the stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave

What Asthma Cave offers isn't limited to its healing air. It is also an underground art gallery that will dazzle your eyes. As you walk through the 200 meters of interconnected galleries, you are greeted by giant stalactites and stalagmites, patiently carved by water droplets over thousands, even millions of years. Just as a sculptor carves marble, the calcium bicarbonate-rich waters have intricately woven the cave's ceiling and floor.   

The strategic lighting inside the cave makes these natural formations even more mysterious and fascinating. Each stalactite and stalagmite takes on a different shape under the dim light. Let your imagination run wild; who knows, you might encounter a giant chandelier, a frozen waterfall, or a mythical creature.   

This is where the cave's two identities merge. Perhaps that's why it's also called the "Wish Cave." Because for many of us, being able to take a clean breath is one of the greatest wishes. Visitors both seek solace in the cave's healing air and symbolize their hopes with the pieces of cloth they tie to the trees at the entrance. Asthma Cave is a unique place where hope and nature intertwine, benefiting both body and soul.   

While You're Here...

After breathing in the mystical air of Asthma Cave, your adventure isn't over; it's just beginning! Since you've come this far, you can't leave without seeing the legendary Sinkholes of Heaven and Hell, just 600 meters away. If you want to crown your underground journey with a fairytale castle in the middle of the sea, you can surrender yourself to the enchanting view of Kızkalesi (Maiden's Castle), which is just a short drive along the coast.   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you get to Asthma Cave by public transport? Yes, indirectly. You can take bus number 170 from Mersin, get off at the Cennet-Cehennem stop, and walk for about 25 minutes to reach the cave. However, there is no public transport that goes directly to the cave's entrance.   

Is there an entrance fee for Asthma Cave, and is the Museum Card valid? Yes, there is an entrance fee. However, the Museum Card is valid for Turkish citizens, and you can enter for free with your card. We recommend checking the official website of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for current entrance fees before you go, as they can change.   

Is the cave's air really good for asthma? There is a widespread belief and numerous positive testimonials from visitors that the cave's high-humidity, cool, and allergen-free air helps and relieves many with respiratory conditions. However, it's important to remember that this is not a medical treatment and its effects can vary from person to person.   

Sources: Mayr, M., & Hartl, A. (2020). Winter exercise and speleotherapy for allergy and asthma: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 9(10), 3311.