Chimera

Chimera is among the places to be seen in Antalya. Tourists who have come here to watch a piece of rock where flames have risen for centuries, watch Chimera with curious eyes. Chimera, which has a place in Zoroastrianism as well as Ancient Greek Mythology, is also called Çıralı Chimera. Now, let's share information about where Chimera is, how to get there and Chimera legends.

WHERE IS CHIMERA?

Chimera is located in Çıralı, from Ulupınar Neighborhood, on the Antalya-Kumluca highway of Kemer district. You can reach the area by car for Chimera which is located on the northeastern slope of Çataldağ. After reaching the top with a 1 km climb, you can witness this unique beauty. Of course, it should not be forgotten that the night walk will be more exciting and beautiful.

Chimera is methane gas flames coming out of the holes in the rocks on this hill. These constantly burning flames have been attracting the attention of local and foreign tourists for thousands of years. İn the region where Chimera which is the subject of many legends in mythology in ancient times, is located, there is also the Temple of Hephaestus.

HOW TO GET TO CHIMERA?

To get to Chimera, you need to use the Kemer Kumluca highway. While going in this direction, it is sufficient to descend towards Çıralı location and then go up from the recreation area. Chimera Recreation Area, which is 82 km from the center of Antalya, is 42 km from Kemer, 34 km from Kumluca and 22 km from Olympos.

LEGENDS OF CHIMERA

There are many legends about Chimera. İn the first legend about Hephaestus, Hephaestus is the ugly-born son of Hera and Zeus. At the same time, Hera, who was ashamed of this disabled child, threw Hephaestus down from the mountains of Olympos. After this period, Hephaestus started to deal with blacksmithing and prepared valuable jewelry and weapons for the gods.

Another legend is based on the information given by Homeros. Chimera, born from the union of Ekhidna and Typhan, is actually born as a 3-headed creature. Chimera, a creature with the heads of a dragon, goat and lion, who is not human, is killed by the order of the Lycian King. As she dies, flames come out of her mouth and that is why Chimera is called the unquenchable fire of Lycia.