14.12.2025 19:35
Asthma and COPD patients from all over Turkey are seeking healing in a cave located 150 meters below the ground, known as the "Underground Salt City," which dates back to the Hittite period, in Çankırı.
The salt cave, known as the "Underground Salt City," located 150 meters underground from the Hittite period in Çankırı, hosts thousands of visitors every year. The cave, which is approximately 20 kilometers away from the city center and has an area of 18,000 square meters, also offers hope to asthma and COPD patients.
PEOPLE ARE COMING FROM ALL OVER TURKEY
As part of the implemented project, asthma and COPD patients coming to Çankırı from different provinces are exposed to salty air in the cave for 4 to 6 hours every day. Patients participating in various activities in the cave experience a significant increase in their blood oxygen levels. Those who attended the therapy in the cave expressed that they feel healthier with each passing day spent in the cave.
"I FELT STRONGER IN MY WALKING AND BREATHING"
Bünyamin Erkaya, who stated that he can breathe comfortably thanks to the cave, said, "I come here with my brother from Erzurum. My brother has advanced COPD, and I have the beginning stages. We heard about the benefits of the salt cave and the hospital, and we came here. Today is my third day, and I felt stronger in my walking and breathing. I feel healthier every day."
"I STARTED TO BREATHE MORE EASILY"
Yaşar Yavuz, who expressed that there are significant reductions in his health problems, said, "I come to Çankırı from Safranbolu, and I am a COPD patient. The various activities in the city and the salt cave have been very beneficial for me. Before coming here, my oxygen level was 51, but now it has risen to 95. I have started to breathe more easily."
"THIS PLACE GIVES PEACE AND RELIEVES BREATHING"
Zeliha Tekercioğlu, who stated that she can breathe comfortably in the cave, said, "I came to the salt cave from Ankara for a visit. We also learned that it is a source of healing. This place gives peace to people and relieves their breathing. It is a beautiful place."
"VERY FASCINATING AND INTERESTING"
Sevda Yılmaz, who said she came to visit the cave and liked it very much, stated, "I come here from Ankara. I was curious about this place before. The cave is very beautiful, very fascinating, and interesting. We liked it a lot."