Historic cedar grain storages in Antalya draw tourists and preserve tradition

In Antalya's Kaş district, some of the grain storages built side by side—whose architecture is inspired by Lycian sarcophagi—have been used by locals for centuries. These grain storages, which resemble stepped podium tombs made of limestone from the Lycian Civilization era, are found in the gardens of some houses, especially in villages in the western districts of Antalya. Nearly 90 historic grain storages located in the Ambarlararası area of Bezirgan neighborhood stand side by side in a cluster. These 3-4 meter high storages, made from cedar wood without using nails but by interlocking, are estimated to be around 300 years old and resemble Lycian tomb architecture in terms of construction technique. The grain storages are important as they reflect the city's ancient agricultural culture and civil architecture. They also serve as storage for some nomadic villagers living between the highlands and the coast. Registered as a 'cultural asset' and protected by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism since 2012, the Bezirgan grain storages have become a point of interest for tourists walking the historic Lycian Way. Tourists visiting the storages along the hiking route often watch locals collecting grain from them. Fehmi Erkek, a tourism professional from Bezirgan, said the grain storages are over 200 years old and made of cedar wood. 'They have served people for centuries. Locals store their harvested products in these storages. The protected storages attract the interest of tourists walking the Lycian Way. Photography enthusiasts frequently visit to take pictures,' he added. Eighty-year-old Ahmet Şalvarlı, who continues to use the grain storage inherited from his grandfather, said he occasionally repairs it. He stores wheat, barley, and chickpeas in the storage. 'I also keep valuable farming tools there. The storage protects our products from rain, cold, and heat. We come and take the products as needed,' he said. Walking among the storages, Şalvarlı recalled his childhood, remembered old friends, and felt happy. Salih Kocabaş said they carefully protect the storages left by their ancestors. He noted that the grains remain preserved without spoiling and emphasized that the architectural style particularly attracts visitors. Kocabaş said he volunteers as a guide for tourists walking the Lycian Way: 'I explain the storages to tourists and offer them tea. I work to promote the region.'

Historic cedar grain storages in Antalya draw tourists and preserve tradition

Centuries-old cedar grain storages in Antalya's Kaş, inspired by Lycian tomb architecture, continue to serve locals and attract tourists along the historic Lycian Way.