UNIQUE ROCK BUILDINGS THROUGHOUT THE GLOBE

The otherworldly underground city of Cappadocia dates from 6th century BC. This maze of honeycomb houses, fairy chimneys and temples hewn from rock can be discovered on foot or from above in a hot air balloon ride.

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The ancient rock homes of Matera fell into rack and ruin after dwellers moved out in the 1950s to seek a more modern way of life. Then in the 1980s the tide turned as investors could see the potential in these hilltop hideaways. They turned them into boutique hotels, underground bars, and gourmet restaurants and soon it became one of the most sought after places to stay. They are a large reason why Matera is now back on the map and this year’s European Capital of Culture.

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These striking subterranean churches were created in the 12th and 13th centuries. Eleven churches can be found tucked away within the terra firma, including Bete Medhane Alem and Bete Giyorgis (the Church of Saint George). Coloured frescos and bas reliefs decorate the walls of these monoliths connected by trenches and tunnels.

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This former trading hub that was established in 4th century BC lies in a valley that connects to the Dead Sea. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. While most people will recognise it for the façade of Al Khazneh (The Treasury) that starred in the Hollywood movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Petra is a small city stretches out for miles.

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The dramatic castle that’s built in the gaping cavern halfway up the rock face dates from the 13th century. Visitors can enjoy touring its dungeons, getting a bird’s eye view of the landscape from Erazem’s Nook and hearing stories about the Robin Hood like Erazem Lueger who used the castle as his hideout.

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