Causes Leading to the Deterioration of Cultural Heritages in the Cappadocia Region, Nev？ehir Province

Cappadocia Region is unique in terms of natural, historical and architectural features. Fairy chimneys, which are formed by the atmospheric effects and carved by people, are also particular as artistic aspects. However, the future of these special structures are under threat because of the natural causes and human activities. In this study, factors that may cause deterioration of Rock Sites of Cappadocia and its rock-hewn churches, which was listed as a world heritage site in 1985, are investigated. In research process, experimental studies and conservational applications carried out by experts from different disciplines are examined. Conservation problems of the site are investigated as well. Thus, the first stage of protection and planning such as detection, documentation, analysis and diagnosis is performed. Moreover, it’s aimed to contribute to the determination of conservation methods