Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia, UNESCO heritage site in Nevşehir Province, Turkey
The area covers a volcanic landscape with rock formations shaped by erosion over millions of years. Tuff stone towers rise between deep valleys, while hundreds of rooms have been carved into the soft slopes.
Christian communities began digging underground settlements with chapels and living quarters in the 4th century to protect themselves from invaders. The complexes grew over centuries and reached depths of several floors below ground.
Locals still live in some of the carved rock dwellings and use the natural coolness of the caves as storage or workshop space. Visitors see carpets and handmade ceramics laid out for sale near the entrances, while women work at the loom.
The area is best explored on foot or by bicycle, as many paths run between the valleys and narrow entrances lead to the caves. Warm clothing is advisable for visiting the underground complexes, where the temperature remains low throughout the year.
Some of the underground cities reach depths of up to eight floors and provided refuge for several thousand people at once. Massive stone wheels served as doors that were locked from inside and sealed off entire sections.
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