Did you know: fairy chimneys in Turkey are still lived in

On my bucket list to spend the night in one.

some of the fairy chimneys and caves in Turkey's Cappadocia region are still lived in, though not in the same way as centuries ago. Many ancient cave dwellings have been converted into unique hotels, offering visitors a chance to experience these historical homes firsthand, while some local residents also continue to live in these rock-hewn structures.

Living in the Fairy Chimneys
Historical Inhabitants:

For centuries, people, including early Christians and Byzantine refugees, carved out homes, churches, and underground cities within the soft volcanic rock of Cappadocia for shelter and protection.

Modern Use:
Today, while many structures are now a testament to human resourcefulness, some are still inhabited by locals who live in traditional cave homes.

Tourist Experience:
Many fairy chimney and cave structures have been thoughtfully remodeled into boutique hotels and guesthouses, providing unique accommodations for tourists.

Preserving History
Evidence of Past Life:
You can still find evidence of past use, such as soot-blackened walls in former kitchens and rock-cut arches, which add to the historical atmosphere of the region.

Underground Cities:
The ancient underground cities, like Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, were also carved into the soft tuff and are impressive remnants of this historical way of life.

Added: Fairy chimneys are naturally formed geological pillars created over millions of years by volcanic eruptions, ash fall, and erosion. Volcanic ash and lava hardened into soft layers of tuff and ignimbrite, which were then covered by harder, more resistant basalt or lava. Wind, rain, and temperature changes eroded the softer rock, leaving behind the harder caprock on top, which shielded the rock beneath, forming the distinctive cone-shaped pillars.