Cappadocia is a volcanic region. Volcanic eruptions from long ago covered the landscape with layers of ash (solidified into a material called tuff) and hardened lava. This eroded away over time, leaving interesting formations behind. A long time ago people came to live in the region, carving into the softer tuff layer. Most of the artificial caves were created in the last 1000ish years with people living in them, even today. We stopped at several places in the region this morning for a few encounters, including the Gorem Open-Air Museum where there are ancient homes and churches and the Fairy Chimneys.
To complete the experience, our hotel last night and tonight is made from remodeled old cave homes. What a fascinating place to stay! Every room is unique. Last night many of us explored the distinctive rooms. “Oh, you’ve got this.” “Look how they made yours.” “Yours has two levels?!” Our tour guide’s extended family created this small hotel, joining all their homes together a few years ago. He’s given some fun stories of growing up in the caves we’re staying in.
We stopped at a carpet-making factory during lunch. They demonstrated making the carpets by hand, gave us a small lunch, and showed off their carpets for sale. I remember something very similar when I was last in Turkey.
In the afternoon we went to one of 36 underground cities in the area. This one is seven stories deep (the first four floors can be visited); the other that can be visited is 20 stories deep! These were created mostly in the seventh or eighth centuries during periods of persecution. People could go underground, close a rock door and hide, with supplies stored away for up to three months. Hidden ventilation shafts supplied air.
We finished our touring of the day at a pottery factory. Much like the carpets, we were shown how they make their pottery from shaping to painting, and then took us to the showroom of what they have for sale.
