Cappadocia
Millions of years ago three volcanoes erupted in Anatolia, a central region of Turkey known as “Cappadocia”. Historically, this region dates from the late 6th century BC, when it appears in the trilingual inscriptions of two early Achaemenid kings, Darius l and Xerxes. Since then it has been invaded and occupied by numerous kingdoms. Many of the carved stone temples contain some of the best examples of Byzantine art.
These volcanic eruptions left a 100 foot ash layer that became the perfect stone to carve into caves for houses and temples. In traveling through the numerous towns one can always see caves which were dug, often hundreds of years ago. About twenty years ago a German entrepreneur was so captivated by the landscape that he arranged for the first commercial balloon rides. Currently over 50 companies lift their balloons each morning creating an international visual spectacle in itself. It is an area of fascinating landscape but also incredible history.
Read MoreThese volcanic eruptions left a 100 foot ash layer that became the perfect stone to carve into caves for houses and temples. In traveling through the numerous towns one can always see caves which were dug, often hundreds of years ago. About twenty years ago a German entrepreneur was so captivated by the landscape that he arranged for the first commercial balloon rides. Currently over 50 companies lift their balloons each morning creating an international visual spectacle in itself. It is an area of fascinating landscape but also incredible history.
