Cappadocia
A journey to a fairy-tale land
Cappadocia is a captivating region in Turkey that spans the provinces of Nevşehir, Kayseri, Aksaray, and Niğde. This unique geography was formed millions of years ago by the erosion of soft layers of lava and ash deposited by the eruptions of Erciyes, Hasandağı, and Göllüdağ, shaped by rain and wind. Cappadocia is famous for its fairy chimneys, underground cities, cave churches, and unique natural beauty.
Natural Beauties: One of the most striking features of Cappadocia is its fairy chimneys. These natural formations were created by the erosion of volcanic tuff. You can see these magnificent structures in areas such as Göreme, Paşabağları, and Uçhisar. Additionally, valleys like Ihlara Valley and Pigeon Valley are ideal places for nature walks and photography.
Historical and Cultural Riches: Cappadocia also stands out with its historical and cultural wealth. The underground cities in the region were built by ancient people to protect themselves from attacks, with Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı being the most well-known. Additionally, the Göreme Open-Air Museum is famous for its rock churches and frescoes from the Byzantine period. This museum is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Activities: There are many activities you can do in Cappadocia. Hot air balloon tours are one of the most popular activities in the region. These tours, conducted at sunrise, offer a bird’s-eye view of Cappadocia’s enchanting landscapes. Additionally, horse riding tours, ATV tours, and nature walks are great options for exploring the area.
Food and Drink: Cappadocia also attracts visitors with its rich cuisine. You shouldn’t leave without trying local delicacies such as pottery kebab, mantı (Turkish dumplings), and pottery beans. Additionally, you can also taste local wines produced in the region’s wineries.
Accommodation: Cappadocia is famous for its cave hotels. These hotels consist of rooms carved into the rocks, in harmony with the region’s natural structure, offering a unique accommodation experience. There are many boutique hotels and luxury accommodation options in areas such as Göreme, Ürgüp, and Uçhisar.
Cappadocia offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its natural and historical riches. By visiting this enchanting region, you can seize the opportunity to discover Turkey’s unique beauties
A journey to a fairy-tale land
Göreme Open-Air Museum
Located in the heart of Cappadocia, the Göreme Open-Air Museum is one of the region’s most important historical and cultural sites. This rock settlement, which hosted intense monastic life from the 4th century to the 13th century AD, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historical and Cultural Riches: The Göreme Open-Air Museum is considered the place where the monastic education system was initiated. In this area, there are churches, chapels, dining halls, and living quarters carved into rock blocks. The frescoes in the churches depict scenes from the Bible and the life of Jesus Christ, showcasing some of the finest examples of Byzantine art. The museum includes significant structures such as the Monastery of Nuns and Monks, the Church of St. Basil, the Apple Church, the Church of St. Barbara, the Snake Church, the Dark Church, the Sandal Church, and the Buckle Church
Natural Beauties: The Göreme Open-Air Museum is surrounded by the unique natural beauties of Cappadocia. The fairy chimneys and valleys offer visitors enchanting views. By walking around the museum area, you can have the opportunity to explore these natural and historical riches.
Activities: There are many activities you can do at the Göreme Open-Air Museum. You can explore the historical churches and frescoes, join guided tours to learn about the historical and cultural background of the region. Additionally, you can take nature walks around the museum area to enjoy the unique landscapes of Cappadocia.
Visitor Information: The Göreme Open-Air Museum is open to visitors every day of the year. The museum opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM. Admission is free for Museum Pass holders, and audio guide services are also available.
The Göreme Open-Air Museum offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its historical and natural riches. By visiting this enchanting museum, you can seize the opportunity to discover the unique beauties of Cappadocia.
Uçhisar Castle
Uçhisar Castle, one of the highest points in Cappadocia, is one of the region’s most impressive historical and natural structures. Located in the town of Uçhisar in Nevşehir province, this castle is one of the best places to view the panoramic landscapes of Cappadocia.
Historical and Cultural Riches: Uçhisar Castle has been in use since the Roman period and was an important defense point during the Byzantine and Seljuk periods. The castle consists of numerous rooms, shelters, storages, and cisterns carved into the natural rocks. These structures were built to protect against Arab raids. When you reach the summit of the castle, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Cappadocia’s magnificent landscape. Uçhisar Castle is the only place where you can see both Erciyes and Hasan Mountains together, and it is also a perfect spot to watch the sunset.
Natural Beauties: Uçhisar Castle offers a captivating natural beauty along with the surrounding fairy chimneys and valleys. From the summit of the castle, you can see Pigeon Valley, Avanos, Ortahisar Castle, Göreme Town, and many other significant spots. These views provide visitors with unforgettable moments.
Activities: There are many activities you can do at Uçhisar Castle. You can explore the historical structure of the castle, join guided tours to learn about the historical and cultural background of the region. Additionally, you can take nature walks around the castle to enjoy the unique landscapes of Cappadocia. It also offers great opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning shots.
Visitor Information: Uçhisar Castle is open to visitors every day of the week. It can be visited from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. You can start exploring this historical structure by purchasing a ticket at the entrance.
Derinkuyu Underground City
One of the most impressive and mysterious structures in Cappadocia, the Derinkuyu Underground City is located in the Derinkuyu district of Nevşehir province. This underground city descends to a depth of approximately 85 meters and has the capacity to accommodate 20,000 people.
Historical and Cultural Riches: The Derinkuyu Underground City was built in the 2nd century AD by the early Christians fleeing persecution from the Roman Empire. The city was carved underground to protect against attacks and designed for long-term habitation. The underground city includes structures such as churches, stables, wineries, missionary schools, water wells, food storage areas, and ventilation shafts. These structures were arranged to meet all the needs of the city’s inhabitants
Natural Beauties: Derinkuyu Underground City is surrounded by the unique natural beauties of Cappadocia. The rocks within and around the city were formed by the erosion of volcanic tuff. These natural structures offer visitors mesmerizing landscapes.
Activities: There are many activities you can do in Derinkuyu Underground City. You can explore this historical structure by walking through its narrow tunnels and rooms. By joining guided tours, you can learn about the city’s historical and cultural background. Additionally, you can enjoy nature walks around the city and take in the unique landscapes of Cappadocia.
Visiting Information: Derinkuyu Underground City is open to visitors every day of the year. The city opens at 8:00 AM and closes at 4:15 PM. Entry is free for Museum Card holders, and audio guide services are also available.
Derinkuyu Underground City offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its historical and natural riches. By visiting this enchanting city, you have the opportunity to discover the unique beauties of Cappadocia.
Ihlara Valley
One of the most impressive natural beauties of Cappadocia, Ihlara Valley is located in the Güzelyurt district of Aksaray province. This enchanting valley was formed by the erosion of lava from volcanic eruptions of Mount Hasan by the Melendiz River. Approximately 14 kilometers long and up to 120 meters deep in places, Ihlara Valley is one of the rare places where nature and history intertwine.
Historical and Cultural Riches: Ihlara Valley is home to numerous churches and chapels from the Byzantine period. These structures, carved into the rocks of the valley, were used as places of retreat during the early periods of Christianity. Important structures such as the Ağaçaltı Church, Sümbüllü Church, Yılanlı Church, and Kokar Church reveal the historical richness of the valley. The frescoes in these churches are magnificent artworks depicting scenes from the Bible.
Natural Beauties: Ihlara Valley is like an oasis with the cool waters of the Melendiz River and the green vegetation at the valley floor. You can enjoy nature and history by walking along the valley. The steep slopes and deep canyons of the valley offer unique landscapes for nature lovers. Additionally, the vineyards and gardens at the valley floor further enrich the natural beauty of the region.
Activities: There are many activities you can do in Ihlara Valley. You can walk along the valley, explore the historical churches and chapels, cool off in the refreshing waters of the Melendiz River, or have a picnic. Additionally, there are many trails around the valley that offer great opportunities for nature walks and photography.
Visiting Information: Ihlara Valley is open to visitors all year round. The Museum Card is valid for entry, and visitors can explore all areas of the valley with this card. There are regular bus services from Aksaray city center to the valley.
Ihlara Valley offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its historical and natural riches. By visiting this enchanting valley, you have the opportunity to discover the unique beauties of Cappadocia.
Ürgüp
Ürgüp is one of the most popular and touristic places in the Cappadocia region. Known for its historical and natural beauties, Ürgüp offers visitors an unforgettable experience.
Place to visit :
Three Beauties: These three fairy chimneys, which have become the symbol of Ürgüp, are one of the most photographed spots in the region.
Red Valley: This valley, offering magnificent views at sunset, is ideal for nature walks.
Ortahisar Castle: Built on a large tuff rock, this castle offers panoramic views.
Mustafapaşa (Sinasos): An old Greek village famous for its historical churches and chapels.
Mazı Underground City: Located near Ürgüp, this underground city sheds light on the mysterious history of the region.
Flavors:
Testi Kebab: This dish, cooked in special clay pots, is one of the most famous flavors of Ürgüp.
Homemade Wines: Wines made from Ürgüp’s grapes are among the most famous beverages of the region.
Ürgüp is a place that enchants its visitors with its historical texture, natural beauties, and flavors. You should definitely visit Ürgüp during your trip to Cappadocia.