They have been living inside the rocks for 700 years: Their homes work like natural air conditioning.

The village of Kandovan, located near the city of Tabriz in Iran, has drawn attention for centuries with its homes carved into the rocks. Life in the settlement, shaped from the soft tuff left by extinct volcanoes, has continued in traditional structures for about 700 years.

Volcanic Rocks Shape Their Homes

The extraordinary appearance of Kandovan rests on volcanic activity that occurred millions of years ago. The soft tuff rocks formed in the region have been carved into living spaces by people since the 13th century.

Today, the village, home to hundreds of people, presents a unique settlement that stretches from the past to the present, with homes hidden among the rocks.

Cool in Summer, Warm in Winter

One striking feature of the village's houses is the natural insulation provided by volcanic rocks. Thanks to this structure, rooms carved into the rocks stay cool in summer and warmer in winter.

Thus, traditional buildings can maintain a natural temperature balance without requiring any air‑conditioning system.

The lower floors of the houses are used as barns.

The rocky houses in Kandovan are not used solely for shelter. While the lower sections of the buildings are mainly allocated for housing animals or storing food, the upper floors serve as living spaces.

Travel between the houses is facilitated by narrow, stone steps cut into the rock.

Modern amenities have also reached the village.

In Kandovan, which has preserved its traditional architecture for centuries, modern conveniences such as electricity, water, and internet are now available.

Thanks to its homes carved into natural rocks and its extraordinary architecture, the village attracts a large number of domestic and foreign tourists every year.