Two Neolithic Ritual Centers in East Mysia (NW Turkey): The Baltalıin and İnkaya Caves

The social and belief systems in WesternAnatolia during the Neolithic and Chalcoliticperiods constitute an important question inAnatolian archaeology. Examination of thewall paintings in the Baltalıin and İnkayacaves near the village of Delice in the districtof Dursunbey in Balıkesir province may providesome important answers. There appearsto be a conscious effort behind the planningof these caves for use as cult centers in regardsto hunting and religious rituals. These picturesreflect the beliefs and rituals of the NeolithicAge and includes themes such as life, death,and hunting.