The town of Ortahisar in
Cappadocia, a region in central
Turkey famous for its
fairy chimneys, rock formations that may reach 40 m (130 ft) in height. Over thousands of years, wind and rain have eroded layers of
consolidated volcanic ash to form the area's landscape. Early occupants of the area dug tunnels into the exposed rock face to build residences, stores, and churches, now home to
Byzantine artwork.
Photo: Mila Zinkova