The Vespasianus Titus Tunnel, is a massive corridor cut through a mountain, located in modern-day Samandag-Cevlik, Turkey. A remarkable Roman engineering feat built over 2,000 years ago to divert floodwaters threatening the harbor of Seleucia Pieria. Though named after Emperor Titus, it was initiated during Vespasianus’ reign and completed under Antonius Pius. The tunnel, carved through solid rock by Roman engineers and laborers, spanned 1.4 km and remains well-preserved, showcasing Roman ingenuity in civil engineering.
Located in the Çevlik Ruins area of Hatay, the Vespasianus Titus Tunnel was built by Emperor Vespasian during the first century AD to protect the city of Selucia Pieria and its port from devastating floods and siltation.
Emperor Vespasian’s solution was to construct a tunnel that would divert the flow of water away from the city and harbor by cutting canals and tunnels into the hills above Selucia Pieria. The project, which started in AD 69, was completed by his son Titus in AD 81 with the help of Roman Legionnaires and Jewish prisoners.
This monumental undertaking was carried out to ensure the safety and longevity of Selucia Pieria, an important port for the Roman Empire during the first century AD. The construction of the tunnel is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the ancient Romans, and it stands as a reminder of their lasting impact on the world.
Interestingly, despite the involvement of three emperors in its construction, the tunnel is named after only the first two – Vespasian and Titus – as the name Vespasianus Titus Antoninus Tunnel would have been too long. Today, the Vespasianus Titus Tunnel is a popular tourist attraction and a fascinating example of ancient engineering.
The Vespasianus Titus Tunnel, measuring 1,380 meters in length, was built during the rule of Emperor Vespasian and completed in the 2nd century AD under Emperor Antoninus. The tunnel was constructed with the help of Roman Legionnaires and Jewish prisoners, and is named after the two emperors, both named Titus. It is 7 meters high and 6 meters wide, and can be found in the Çevlik Ruins area of Hatay.
Adjacent to the tunnel, on the sea side of the natural passage, is the Beşikli (Cradle) cave. This cave features twelve rock tombs in different sections, each separated by walls. These tombs contain columns and arches built with stone stairs that lead down into the tomb. The doorways of the tombs have been carved with columns, capitals, and steps, giving them a distinct appearance.
The Vespasianus Titus Tunnel, the Beşikli cave, and the surrounding tombs have been added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List since 2014.
