CAPPADOCIA

Unparalleled in nature and history, Cappadocia is undoubtedly the most intriguing region in Turkey for the overseas traveller. Formed over the ten million years of frequent volcanic eruptions of Mt. Erciyes and Mt. Hasan, the central Anatolian plateau was covered with a layer of tufa, (lava which becomes stone). This material being so easily erodable under natural weather conditions can be attributed for the uniquely carved and sculptured topography as seen today. Groups of scattered cone-shaped monoliths called 'peribacasi' or 'fairy chimneys', project skywards throughout the valleys and ridges of this Grand Canyonesque environment. The history of Cappadocia is marked by the religious activities of those who settled here. The region at one time became a center for practicing Christians, who hid here from the Romans, Iconoclasts, Arabs and Turks. So it was that in times of war, they dwelt deep down in dugout underground cities. Today the main remaining attractions are the small but beautifully frescoed churches and mosaics of the early-Christians.