Cappadocia, the strange but beautiful formation of Cappadocia has had this appearance for millions of years. When the volcanoes in the region were active, the lava which poured out covered all previously formed hills and valleys forming a high plateau. It is estimated that there are more than 600 rock-cut churches in Cappadocia. Walls were covered with beautiful frescoes and they were also influenced by the Iconoclast period in the 8C and 9C. The underground cities in Cappadocia are unique too. No one knows when the underground cities of Cappadocia were built, perhaps in Hittite times or as late as the 6C AD. Another region worth to visit in the area is the famous Ihlara Valley. Ihlara Valley (Canyon) is a deep, narrow river gorge cut through the tufa by the Melendiz River. The canyon runs for 20 km / 12 miles offering one of the most enjoyable trekking routes to those people who can spare the minimum of half a day. In the canyon there are about 60 churches, monasteries and cells of anchorites. There are also loads of activities available in Cappadicia : hot-air ballooning, horse and camel riding, trekking, biking the list goes on.