World · Malaysia Bureau
Two killed as rock formation collapses at Turkish tourist destination
A sudden rockfall at a popular tourist site in Turkey's Cappadocia region has claimed two lives. The incident occurred when a landslide triggered the collapse of a prominent rock spire in Goreme, home to an open-air museum that attracts visitors from around the world.
LSN Malaysia ·
The fatal collapse took place at approximately 1215 GMT in Goreme, a town renowned for its distinctive fairy-tale rock formations and archaeological significance. A landslide in the area dislodged a substantial rock spire, resulting in the deaths of two individuals at the scene.
Goreme's open-air museum, located within the town's boundaries, is one of Turkey's most visited cultural attractions. The site features ancient cave dwellings, rock-cut churches, and underground structures carved into the unique volcanic landscape that characterises the Cappadocia region in central Anatolia.
The incident highlights ongoing geological concerns at popular tourist destinations where natural rock formations are exposed to weathering and seismic activity. Turkish authorities have not yet released additional details regarding the circumstances of the collapse or whether the victims were visitors or workers at the site.
Cappadocia remains a major draw for international tourists despite periodic safety incidents related to its dramatic geological features. The region's distinctive landscape, formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, continues to attract visitors seeking to explore its historical caves and rock formations.