Research Information System
3rd International Conference on Design and Nature, New Forest, ENGLAND, 24 - 26 May 2006, vol.87, pp.61-70
The Cappadocia region is located in the Anatolian part of Turkey surrounded by ancient civilisations where nature and history came together in good sequence. While geographic events had formed 'Fairy Chimneys' (Peribacalari), during the historical period, the signs of old civilisations of thousands of years can be seen with carved houses and churches within these earth pillars. Traditional Cappadocian houses carved into stone show the uniqueness of the region. These houses are constructed on the feet of the mountain via rocks or cut stones. Rocks, which are the only construction materials of the region, as they are very soft after quarrying due to the structure of the region can be easily processed but after contact with air it may harden and turn into a very strong constructional material. Cappadocia is also known for its rock hewn churches, monasteries and underground cities.