Guide19. august 2026 · 3 min læsning
Understanding a Myth Carved into the Rocks: Hatay's Charon Relief and Mythological Heritage
Türkiye's lands host a unique synthesis that, alongside the great civilizations that changed the world — such as Rome, Byzantium, the Seljuks and the Ottomans — has welcomed countless cultures too numerous to name. As you walk through this ancient geography today, the traces left from centuries ago are visible not only behind museum glass but also deep within the mountains and in the massive reliefs carved into the rock, alive and vivid. One of these mysterious stops is Hatay (Antakya), which has been the meeting point of East and West throughout history.
A Figure from Mythology: Charon (Kharon)
In the pre-Islamic and pre-Christian beliefs of Anatolia and the Eastern Mediterranean, Greek mythology held a significant place, expressing the afterlife with distinct symbols. One of the most well-known of these symbols is Charon (Kharon), the ferryman who transports souls across the Styx (death) river to the afterlife.
In Antakya, the massive Charon Relief (Hell's Ferryman) on the rocky slopes of Habib-i Neccar Mountain brings this legend to life. Believed to have been carved into the rocks in the 3rd century BC during the Hellenistic period under Antiochus IV Epiphanes to stop a major plague outbreak, this giant bust continues to silently guard the valley with its enormous size.
The Asi River and the Styx Legend
A fascinating parallel has been established throughout history between the Asi River (Orontes), which flows through the heart of Hatay and empties into the Mediterranean, and the Styx River, which souls must cross to reach the afterlife in mythological accounts. The Charon bust is located at a point that dominates the Asi River valley, raising the question: Was the mystical river in the legends the very Asi River that flowed right next to the people of ancient times?
The Lands Where Beliefs Intersect: St. Pierre and Charon
Right next to the Charon Relief is another center that changed the course of human history: St. Pierre (St. Peter's) Church. Considered one of the oldest places of worship in Christianity and known as the place where followers of Jesus were first called Christians, this cave church stands almost side by side with the Charon bust.
On one hand, the ferryman of ancient mythology, and on the other, the first whispers of a heavenly religion...
Antakya, Hatay, and Anatolia in general have been the cradle of the first civilizations, myths, and religions in history, and today they proudly host one of the most sacred and richest heritages. The traces on the rocks continue to carry the voice of the past to the present.
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(To view the images and details of this huge relief hidden in the mountainous area of Hatay