Evaluation of prehistoric caves and rock cavities in the Doğu Sandal and Eşek Deresi Valleys (Erdemli, Mersin) within the scope of cultural heritage site management

With the Central Taurus Prehistoric Research Project (OTTA), launched in Mersin in 2019, it is aimed to fill the chronological gap regarding the prehistoric periods of the mountainous part of Cilicia. The reason why studies on prehistoric periods in this region are sparse is due to the lack of research due to the topographical structure of the region and the difficult terrain conditions. One of the study areas in the OTTA project is the prehistoric rock paintings found in some rock cavities in the Doğu Sandal and Eşek Deresi Valleys in the region. Caves containing materials from prehistoric periods have also been identified in the areas close to these paintings. Studies in this field are related to the identification, documentation, preservation, dating, management of the site and promotion of the finds within the scope of cultural heritage in the valleys, as well as prehistoric research. In recent years, digital documentation methods have been developed by combining the data obtained by UAVs in excavations and surface surveys in archaeological sites. Images taken with UAVs are the safest and easiest method to document in such valleys. Recording the hard-to-reach areas with detailed images from different perspectives, from general to specific, in valleys containing archaeological material, allows the valleys to be understood holistically, and the obtained items to be fof the natural and cultural features of the valleys is emphasized. In this context, it is suggested that the purpose, scope and methods of archaeological studies in the field are discussed, and the development of study and documentation techniques and the use of various technological devices and software. It is expected that all suggestions and methods will set an example for other studies in terms of archaeological studies, tourism and cultural heritage. Keywords: Cave, Cultural Heritage, Prehistoric Period, Rock Art, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle