Fairy Chimney Collapse in Cappadocia Leaves Two Dead, Five Injured
A section of a volcanic rock formation fell in Turkey’s Cappadocia region, killing at least two people and wounding five others.
Parts of a large volcanic rock formation crashed down in Turkey’s popular tourism destination of Cappadocia on Thursday, killing at least two people and injuring five others, officials said.
A section of the formation—known locally as a fairy chimney—tumbled in the Göreme region, prompting authorities to dispatch medical and rescue teams to the scene.
Heavy rains earlier in the week likely triggered the collapse, governor Huseyin Kok said, noting the incident occurred near a parking lot at an entrance to the site.
Rescue crews are still searching for additional people who may be trapped beneath the rubble, while no immediate details on the nationalities of the deceased have been released.
Justice Minister Akin Gurlek confirmed that an investigation into the incident has been launched, and five individuals were reported injured.
HaberTurk news channel footage showed heavy machinery removing large chunks of rock from the foot of the formation.
Cappadocia, a UNESCO World Heritage‑listed area in central Turkey, is famed for its distinctive rock formations and ancient underground cities, and is one of the country’s most visited tourism locations.
The collapse happened on Turkey’s Republic Day holiday, a time when the area would normally be crowded with visitors, underscoring the tragedy’s timing.
Authorities continue to assess the site and ensure safety for future visitors.
