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Why
Cappadocia is special
Cappadocia in Turkey has a surreal landscape fashioned by
ancient floods and winds that partially eroded a volcanic based
plateau. Numerous fanciful formations were created including the
conical ones nicknamed fairy chimneys (see photo).
Carved-out dwellings and churches
The rock formations were soft, which encouraged persecuted
people (mainly early Christians) to flee to the Cappadocia
wilderness to carve dwellings and churches out of them.
The new arrivals also dug into the many canyon cliff walls to
produce multi story communities reached only by ladders, steep
foot paths and treacherous footholds.
Most of the surviving carved-out dwellings and churches in
Cappadocia date from the 10th and 11th centuries. Some inns have
such rooms (with modern amenities) - imagine the thrill of
sleeping in a hotel room that was built nearly a thousand years
ago.
Underground city
Cappadocia offers a host of other interesting experiences
including exploring the underground city of Derinkuyu. Local
inhabitants temporarily hid in it while invading armies marched
overhead. This subterranean human warren has complex room mazes
going down eight levels. Concealed wells, air shafts and food
supplies made it self-sufficient for long durations.
What leading travel books say about Cappadocia
Derinkuyu in Cappadocia is a truly spectacular, many-layered
underground city.
Turkey
Globetrotter Guides
The eerie landscape of Cappadocia is a natural wonder.
Turkey
Open Road Guides
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