Cappadocia
History
The history of Cappadocia began about ten million years ago. Three volcanoes, Erciyes, Hasandag and Göllüdag were very active and they covered a large area under a 100 to 150 meter thick layer of hot volcanic ash, which hardened into a soft stone called tuff. Centuries of erosion by rain and wind created bizarre shaped rocks. You'll find the so called fairy chimneys, conical shaped formations and mushroom-shaped rocks.
The history of Cappadocia began about ten million years ago. Three volcanoes, Erciyes, Hasandag and Göllüdag were very active and they covered a large area under a 100 to 150 meter thick layer of hot volcanic ash, which hardened into a soft stone called tuff. Centuries of erosion by rain and wind created bizarre shaped rocks. You'll find the so called fairy chimneys, conical shaped formations and mushroom-shaped rocks.
The early inhabitants of Cappadocia found out that the tuff was relative soft and it was easy to carve dwellings, stables, storeroom, dovecotes and churches with beautiful decorations.The earth is very fertile so a lot of the inhabitants were farmers. The local farmers used pigeon droppings as fertilisers or the droppings were sold, and for this reason, a great number of dovecotes were hollowed out. Nowadays, you'll see lots of vineyards and Cappadocia produces good wines.
At the beginning of the last century, this area was practically unknown, until a French priest discovered Cappadocia in 1907. He made his investigation to the churches his life work, which was published in the years 30-40. The estimated number of rock-hewn churches is more than 3000!
Most people think that Cappadocia is a desert-like area but it's not. It's a green area, especially in spring it is an oasis with lots of colourful flowers, trees, plants and birds. Therefore it's a paradise for walkers, nature-lovers, photographers and ornithologists.
Today, Cappadocia attracts tourists from all over the world. People come to see the miracle-landscape which nature has created. The small and cosy village Göreme is situated right in the heart of this miracle-landscape.. Those who are looking for peace and quiet, but want to be near everything Cappadocia has to offer, will find in Göreme exactly what they need. Facilities in the village are good, with plenty of restaurants, shops and internet cafes. The famous Göreme open-air museum is just 1 kilometre from the village.
Resource: http://cappadocia.turkijeplaza.nl/eng/history.htm
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