Haron (Charonian) Kabartmasi

Haron (Charonian) Kabartmasi is a rock relief in southern Turkey near ancient Antioch, depicting a figure interpreted as Charon, the ferryman of the Greek underworld. The carved panel measures approximately 4 by 1.5 metres and dates to between 500 BC and 1 AD, spanning the late Hellenistic to early Roman periods. The site consists of a natural cave or rock shelter that was later adapted for Christian worship, transforming its original pagan funerary significance into a church. This site reflects the syncretic religious practices of the ancient Near East, where Greek mythological figures were incorporated into local traditions.