Kandovan, Iran, is home to some unusual and amazing dwellings. Residents of the Middle Eastern village spent the last seven hundred years living in caves that pepper the foot of Mount Sahand. Over the years, volcanic rock was formed into 2- to 4-story homes for families to pass down from generation to generation.
The humble village blends right into its earthy background.
The ancient dwellings were modernized over time.
Wires, glass windows, and even running water are all available now.
The stone is sturdy enough to support the multi-level homes, but malleable enough to adapt to new needs over time.
Some families make do with the natural cave formations.
Others like to give their walls a powerwash for a more modern (yet still traditional) look.
For the most part, residents try to keep both the interior and exterior of their homes in accord with the “authentic Kandovan feel.”
They all tend to face the south for the best sunlight.
Many dwellings have stained glass windows to add color to their earth tones.
Locals decorate the interior with colorful rugs and tapestries.
Around 170 families currently reside in the communities.
The nearby mountain has springs running through the village. This provides water for their animals and agriculture.
But the most incredible aspect of these homes? It’s rumored that those waters can cure diseases.
The homes may seem humble, but they’re certainly full of charm…And maybe magic.
(via Acid Cow.)
I, for one, would love to live in a such a humble looking town (especially one with mystical healing powers). Maybe we should all start thinking outside of the little boxes we tend to live in. It could be peaceful location healing the villagers, and not the caves. Either way, I need to go here.
