Turkey
The Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia are one of the signature natural sites of Turkey and one of the finest examples of geological formations known as Hoodoos. A large area of amazing rock formations, the fairy chimneys consists of pyramids and columns of rock, many of which are topped with larger delicately balanced rocks. The chimneys are located in and around the town of Goreme, and much of the area is now protected within Goreme National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cappadocia is one of the oldest inhabited places on Earth outside of Africa, and evidence of human activity in the area around the Fairy Chimneys dates back tens of thousands of years. The town of Goreme, which literally stands in the midst of the chimneys, was probably founded over three thousand years ago. Some of the homes and buildings incorporate the chimneys into their structures.
The Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia were formed over millions of years. As is usual with such formations, it occurred as the softer lower rock eroded much faster than the harder upper rock. The fairy chimeys here are particularly memorable as many appear to be large pyramids teetering on the tops of rock columns.
The Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia are not only a very popular torist destination, they are an integral part of the local architecture and culture. In some cases homes have been literally carved from the chimneys over the course of millennia. The town of Goreme now accommodates a large amount of tourism traffic throughout the year. Web: www.goreme.com (official tourismwebsite).
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