About 2 hours east of Konya is Sultan Han Caravansaray, one of the best examples of Anatolian Seljuk Empire architecture.
These Caravansarays were located about every 25 kilometers along the Silk Road, and used as a protected stop during the night for trade caravans. Their grandeur clearly stated the importance of trade for the Seljuk empire.
Located in the middle of the caravansaray was a small tower. It was a great space to stop and take a break.
Chaperone Doug and his new headgear. I don't believe he took it off all day long.
Another hour to the northeast we entered the region of Cappadocia.
Environmental and geographic conditions created spectacular scenery.
The region is littered with cliffs and caves. Record of its history dates back to the 6th Century BCE. During the early Roman period when Christians were being hunted and killed, cliff cave were used as some of the earlier churches.
We pulled the bus over at this first site, and, like wild animals penned to long, the students scurried up the hill.
I don't know what is more exciting than watching these students in the thrall of exploration and discovery.
Later we toured one of the many underground cities. These cities were dug out of the rock as hiding placed during the times of the Mongol invasion. This city was 8 levels deep, held up to 10,000 people, and could serve as a hiding space for up to 6 months.
Dinner in Urgup
I like your reflections. I am Ezra Barber, a third grade student at the Evergreen School. Those photos you took are cool! And I know you are excited in Turkey, aren't you?
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