In a shocking breach of cultural heritage, a 3,000-year-old Phrygian rock-cut tomb located in Ayazini, Türkiye, has been unlawfully converted into a café-restaurant. This significant burial site, found within the Phrygian Valley of Afyonkarahisar and included on UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List, was transformed into a commercial space without the necessary permissions.

The establishment, named “Taş Bahçe” (“Stone Garden”), promoted itself on social media with misleading captions such as “The glory of the stone rooms,” while photos showcased the ancient site adorned with modern furnishings. Experts are dismayed by this violation, particularly because the tomb is a registered archaeological site.

The café’s modifications included the installation of wooden furniture, transparent doors, and even a swing outside the monument, all made without approval from Türkiye’s Regional Conservation Council, which oversees the preservation of cultural sites. Electrical wiring and heating systems were also installed in chambers that were once sacred burial areas.

The dramatic transformation, highlighted on social media, sparked significant backlash from archaeologists and cultural heritage advocates. Prof. Nevzat Çevik from Akdeniz University expressed outrage, stating that not even a chair should be placed next to a registered monument without consent.

He criticized the owners for exploiting the historic value of such an important site. Additionally, Prof. Havva İşkan condemned the changes as detrimental to cultural memory, noting, “These are burial chambers with spiritual meaning.”

In light of this public outcry, Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism has launched an investigation into the unauthorized renovations. Birol İnceciköz, the Director General of Cultural Assets and Museums, confirmed that legal proceedings are in motion to address this violation.

Although the tomb is on private land, its protected status necessitates official oversight concerning modifications. Museum authorities have already begun restoring the site to its original condition.

Halil Çakmak, the café owner, has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that they sought permission and were awaiting a response. He stated that the business would be relocated outside the heritage zone, acknowledging a desire to contribute to regional development while highlighting the importance of adhering to legal boundaries.