Cave Houses as Arcetypes of Shelter Formation in Capadoccia Region, Turkey

Abstract

Cave houses are the priviliged arcetypes of the concept residence being preserved from ancient periods until today. Sustainability of local natural environments and cultural heritage becomes a global issue, while local sites become learning grounds for global communities. One of the best examples of man’s symbiotic relationship with nature is Cappadocia located in Central Anatolia offering many possibilities and outcomes for underground habitation. The formation of these structures, their aesthetical value as a whole, the environmental approaches, sustainability ability of these houses, interior space etc. are being identified multidisciplinary in this paper. The aim of this paper is to mention the historical background, formation and developments of the spatial necessities of human from the ancient times that have been surviving from thousands of years and are still in the function today. The functions of these cave houses in current conditions are also being evaluated and the proposals are indicated. In the results and conclusions the necessities of current conditions regarding the spatial aspects of these cave formations with proposals are being identified. Since almost two thousand years the cave dwellings of Cappadocia play a major role in the regional architecture. During that period many different cultures inhabited this area and used special cave dwellings due to their internalized specific needs. The climate inside is optimal for living and storing: cool in summer and warm in winter. New architectural elements and the needs of modern life should be combined with the local building styles.