The Last Volcanic Cave Village | Habitats of the World: Iran

With a history spanning nearly a millennium, Kandovan’s 1,000 residents maintain a unique way of life. The stone homes, originally built for protection and to benefit from fertile land, have been adapted over time with modern features. Their architecture, rooted in nature, tells a story of resilience and labor, with the name “Kandovan” symbolizing the hardships of carving these dwellings from volcanic tuff.