Cappadocia

There are a few places in many countries that don't seem to belong.  Some are even like pieces of another planet.  There is a part of Anatolia that is geologically unique.  There were (and still are although they are dorman) three volcanoes located on the edges of this region that at one time erupted frequently, belching ash, lava and basalt over and over.  Throw in a few earthquakes and allow time for erosion and you get Cappadocia.

on the way to Cappadocia

drier still

the land in its current form

erosion



more erosion





As the rock below the top layer of basalt is extremely soft, it can be easily carved. Communities took advantage of this to make their home in the rock pillars and under the ground. Today, these examples of homes, churches and whole cities abound in Cappadocia. have contributed to form the valleys and the rock formations seen today.



North America has a similar landscape.  We call them"hoodoos",but here they are known as"fairy chimneys" which is way more charming.



how tall with they go before gravity kicks in?



students exploring an alien landscape



 "fairy chimneys"

Hey, is that volcano still active?



fooled you!  It's just a perfectly located cloud