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Konya Karapınar Geopark Project

Unique Geological Heritage in the Heart of Anatolia

Karapınar's unique geography, shaped by volcanic eruptions, water and wind over millions of years, has transformed Konya into a geological heritage site that is an open-air museum. Konya Karapınar Geopark Project; It was implemented in line with the tourism and science vision of the city, in order to preserve this heritage and pass it on to future generations.

Geological Treasures of Konya

Geopark; They are special nature conservation areas where geological heritage elements such as fossils, sinkholes and geomorphological structures are protected and contribute to sustainable development through education and tourism. There are a total of 21 geological heritage sites in Konya, and the heart of the project is Karapınar and its surroundings.

Why Karapınar?

  • The capital of volcanic heritage: Known as the evil eye of the world, Meke Crater Lake reveals the power and aesthetics of volcanism.
  • Monitoring change: Region; It is a natural laboratory to observe the effects of climate change and geological processes through sinkhole formations and groundwater changes.
  • Holistic conservation and sustainability: Project; It aims to register the value of the region on a global scale while supporting local development.

Goal and Vision of the Project

Project; It is carried out under the leadership of Konya Metropolitan Municipality with the contributions of institutions such as MTA, MEVKA and KOP Administration. The main goal is to activate the potential of geotourism, education and scientific research.

Main Goals

  • Conservation: To protect geological heritage areas with a holistic approach and prevent destruction.
  • Promotion: To promote the fields nationally and internationally; The ultimate goal is participation in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.
  • Sustainable development: Contributing to the regional economy and creating opportunities for local people by revitalizing geotourism.
  • Science and education: To host scientific research and raise social awareness by transforming geopark areas into open-air laboratories.

    • The project, which will determine the five-year road map of Karapınar, also includes geological heritage inventory and destination planning. This work will unearth the hidden geological treasures of Konya and make it an important stop on the world geotourism route.