Around the world, there are people living in the most unexpected and unimaginable places. While most of us are used to cozy houses, apartments, or maybe even cabins, some individuals have chosen—or been forced—to make homes in truly strange and astonishing locations. These incredible stories reveal the creativity, resilience, and adaptability of the human spirit!
1. Coober Pedy, Australia – Living Underground
In the scorching deserts of Australia, temperatures can soar well above 100°F (38°C). To escape the brutal heat, the residents of Coober Pedy have taken to living underground! Yes, you read that right. Entire homes, churches, and even shops have been built into the ground. Originally started by opal miners in the early 1900s, these subterranean dwellings provide a cool refuge from the sun while offering all the comforts of modern living.
2. The Treehouses of Korowai Tribe, Indonesia
Deep within the dense jungles of Papua, Indonesia, the Korowai tribe lives in extraordinary treehouses that tower up to 100 feet above the ground. These elevated homes were originally constructed to protect the tribe from wild animals and rival groups. Made entirely from wood, vines, and leaves, these treehouses are architectural marvels and a testament to human ingenuity. Climbing up and down these towering structures is just a regular part of daily life!
3. Kandovan, Iran – The Rocky Village
Kandovan is a small village in Iran where people have literally carved their homes into the sides of volcanic rock formations. The cone-shaped houses resemble a scene straight out of a fairy tale, blending seamlessly into the natural landscape. These cave dwellings are over 700 years old and still house families today, providing excellent insulation against the harsh winters and sweltering summers of the region.
4. Gásadalur Village, Faroe Islands – The Cliffside Hamlet
Perched on the edge of a dramatic cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Gásadalur Village is one of the most isolated settlements in the world. Until a tunnel was constructed in 2004, the only way to reach this tiny village was by hiking over steep mountains or taking a risky boat journey. Despite its isolation, the few residents who live here enjoy breathtaking views and a peaceful, secluded lifestyle.
5. The Floating Village of Tonle Sap, Cambodia
On the massive Tonle Sap lake in Cambodia, entire communities live on floating houses. These villages move with the changing water levels, rising and falling with the seasons. The residents rely on fishing for their livelihoods and use boats to get around. Schools, shops, and even temples are constructed on stilts or rafts, creating a unique floating lifestyle unlike anywhere else on Earth.
6. Matmata, Tunisia – Star Wars-Like Underground Homes
Matmata is a small town in Tunisia where people have been living in underground homes for centuries. These homes were dug out of soft sandstone to protect against the intense heat of the desert. Interestingly, Matmata gained international fame after being featured as Luke Skywalker’s home on the planet Tatooine in the original Star Wars movie. Today, some of these homes have been transformed into hotels, giving tourists a chance to experience life below ground.