The comparison of rock-cut architecture sites in Turkey and Italy withspecial emphasis on cappadocia

Abstract

Understanding the reasons that lead to a specific type of architecture is indispensable for conservation of that architecture.Rock-cut architecture is a phenomenon which is found in numerous historical sites around the Mediterranean area. Among them, Turkey and Italy constitute the largest region where unique rock-cut monuments and sites are found. In this article, the rock-cut architecture in Turkey and Italy are compared in order to search for a common ground for dwelling inside rock-carved spaces and to develop an appropriate conservation approach. The socio-cultural, economical, defensive and climatic dimensions examined and presented as a base to understand the phenomenon of the rock-cut architecture. The study reveals that the formation of similar vernacular architectures in different locations might be resulted from similar physical, historical and socio-economic conditions. The study might constitute a basis in developing a proper methodology to compare different rock-carved architectures in the world, although there are not concrete proofs showing that the populations created them have had contacts or information exchanges