5. Derinkuyu

Quite simply, Cappadocia is one of the coolest places on the planet. A 250x150 mile area in the center of Turkey that formed millions of years ago from the activity of three area volcanoes. The volcanoes never really erupted in lava, but spit out ash, enough to eventually form very soft mountains all over the area. First settled in the late Bronze Age, people have been living in cave-like holes in the rocks ever since. The rocks have been eroded over time into chimney-like cones. There are over 1000 rock churches in the area, ornately decorated with scenes and alters from the Byzantine area. St. Paul and St. Peter brought Christianity to the area. The natural beauty of the place is stunning and coupled with the weight of 3000 years of history, it a little overwhelming. Add in ancient cities that go eight stories or more underground, full of elaborate tunnels and all manner of rooms, and it gets a little ridiculous how truly remarkable it all is.

We spent almost 2 days in the area hiking around the river beds and exploring these cave dwellings and churches. Much of the area is not roped off or anything and you can just stop on the side of the road and explore. Very cool.

Derinkuyu Photos