Description

This book provides a comprehensive account of the underground shelters in the Cappadocia region of Central Anatolia. These subterranean defensive structures, which are estimated to have been constructed by the local population between the 7th and 11th centuries AD to protect themselves against Arab raids, have regrettably not been extensively archaeologically and scientifically investigated until now. Nevertheless, these shelters, which are estimated to number in excess of 200, represent a significant and invaluable component of the architectural and cultural history of the region, in a manner analogous to the renowned rock-cut churches of Cappadocia. After providing an overview of the geological and historical background of the region and summarising previous studies on the subject, this book discusses a wide range of issues pertaining to these underground shelters, including excavation techniques, defensive devices, and dating debates. Finally, a list of all the underground shelters identified so far is presented, and 50 important structures selected from among them are described in full detail.