The underground cities of the Byzantine Empire - Veronica Kalas
TED-Ed・2 minutes read
Cappadocia in central Türkiye is known for its fairy chimneys, geological formations created by volcanic eruptions and sculpted by wind and rain over millions of years. Beneath these formations are underground cities dating back to the Middle Ages, possibly built as refuge from Arab invaders, featuring intricate designs and even old-fashioned lavatories.
Insights
- The geological formations in Cappadocia, Turkey, known as fairy chimneys, were created through volcanic activity and eroded by natural elements over millions of years, resulting in colorful spires.
- The inhabitants of Cappadocia not only utilized underground cities for refuge from invaders but also expanded their settlements above ground, carving churches and homes into rocky cliffs with Byzantine architectural influences and intricate wall paintings.
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Recent questions
What are fairy chimneys?
Unique geological formations in Cappadocia sculpted by wind and rain.
Why were underground cities built in Cappadocia?
Possibly created by locals seeking refuge from Arab invaders.
How did locals expand their settlements in Cappadocia?
Locals expanded into above-ground dwellings with Byzantine architectural styles.
What is the significance of the underground cities in Cappadocia?
They served as a refuge and protection during times of conflict.
How were the fairy chimneys in Cappadocia formed?
Formed by volcanic eruptions and sculpted by wind and rain.
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Summary
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Fairy chimneys and underground cities in Cappadocia.
- Cappadocia in central Türkiye boasts stunning geological formations called fairy chimneys, formed by volcanic eruptions and sculpted over millions of years by wind and rain into colorful spires.
- Beneath this unique landscape lies a network of underground cities dating back to the Middle Ages, possibly created by locals seeking refuge from Arab invaders. These cities feature intricate designs, ventilation shafts, living spaces, and even old-fashioned lavatories.
- Despite the Byzantine Empire securing the region in the 11th century, locals expanded their underground settlements into above-ground dwellings, carving churches and dwellings into rocky cliffsides with Byzantine architectural styles and vibrant wall paintings.
