In Cappadocia, near the Goreme Open Air Museum (Nevsehir Province, Turkey), a collapse of rock formations—the so-called "fairy chimneys" characteristic of this region—has occurred. According to official data, two people died as a result of the collapse, and one person was injured. The incident was reported by Nevsehir Governor Huseyin Kek, as cited by the publication Hurriyet, referencing RBC-Ukraine. As of October 29, 2026, search and rescue operations are ongoing at the scene.
Official confirmation and nature of the incident
Nevsehir Province Governor Huseyin Kek publicly confirmed the rockfall and the casualties. According to him, rescue teams discovered the bodies of two deceased persons following the landslide and rock collapse. A third victim with injuries was promptly taken to a hospital for medical assistance. Thus, at this moment, two deaths and one injury have been confirmed; official authorities have reported no other casualties.
Rescue operation on site
Immediately after the collapse, rescue and medical services arrived on the scene. In the area of the collapse, where rock masses have blocked a section of the terrain, search and rescue operations are underway: debris is being cleared, the stability of surrounding rocks is being assessed, and the risk of further collapse is being eliminated. One victim was urgently evacuated and hospitalized, with their condition being monitored by medical professionals. Access to the site is restricted, as evidenced by security tape and cordons placed at the scene.
Video from the site and eyewitness reactions
Video footage capturing the moment of the landmark's destruction has appeared online. The published footage shows the area instantly enveloped in a thick cloud of dust after the rocks fell. Images and videos shared by eyewitnesses coincide with the description of the rockfall and confirm the scale of the collapse in the immediate vicinity of the Goreme tourist area.
Context: why Goreme is a vulnerable zone
Cappadocia, and specifically the Goreme area, is known for its unique erosive rock formations that attract millions of tourists and are part of the region's cultural heritage. It is precisely these formations, subject to erosion and geological processes, that create a risk of local collapses, especially near trails and viewpoints. The incident near the Open Air Museum once again highlights the need to monitor the stability of rock masses in popular tourist locations. Official bodies continue their work at the scene and do not rule out updating the information as rescue operations conclude.
