Built to model a city, inhabitants were afforded everything from churches, homes, storage and even a cemetery.

The City of Manazan is built into an entire rock face and stretched five stories high across nearly two miles of cliffs. Built to model a city, the village had churches, homes, storage and even a cemetery. Today these particular caves are still in use, but not for living. Many of the rooms are used as storage space for cheese and other food for the local Taskale Village.

There are nearly 40,000 caves located throughout Turkey and cave dwellings have proven to be incredible alternatives to standard constructions. Their natural walls regulate temperatures all year-round, and some even boast their own water source flowing within. While many of these dwellings have been left behind for more modern accommodations, a great number have been transformed into tourist destinations, including world-class hotels.

Via Atlas Obscura

Images: Atlas Obscura and Visit Karaman