The Land of Fairy Chimneys & Ancient Underground Cities
For those who love to explore the earth’s natural beauty unfolded by stunning rock formations, ancient underground cities and dwellings, subterranean churches, and other worldly rock formations which include the mystical Fairy Chimneys, then you shouldn't miss to visit Cappadocia.
Known in Turkey as one of the must-see places to visit and explore, Cappadocia is a region famous for its fascinating underground cities of 4,000 years old. This include the centres of Ürgüp, Göreme, Avanos, Üçhisar, Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı and Ihlara. The area is also famous for its carpet-weaving, local wines, and the distinctive red pottery of the Avanos area.
The village of Göreme is another interesting place worth visiting. Many of its villagers still live in cave dwellings until today, while some of which have been converted into pensions, cave hotels, and inns. Surrounding the area are the amazing rock formations known evocatively as Peri Bacaları or Fairy Chimneys.
Brief History
Cappadocia was a refuge for the early Christians who escaped persecution by living and worshipping underground. The region has an estimated 3,000 rock churches and hundreds of underground cities which include Kaymaklı - one of the most impressive for having 8 levels, and Derinkuyu which reaches down to 55 metres. These underground cities were used by the Christians fleeing persecution in the 7th century, who created a self-sufficient environment underground including bedrooms, kitchens and storage rooms.
What To See
- Uçhisar. Located just about seven kilometres from Nevşehir, this small town has a splendid, natural scenery that is a must-see for every traveler visiting the region. From the heights of the Uçhisar citadel, it is where you can have a magnificent and unrivalled view of the whole region.
- Göreme. Located ten kilometres from Nevşehir, Göreme and its environs are thought to have been used as a necropolis during Roman times by the inhabitants of Venessa (Avanos) and is often referred to as the "belief centre". The Göreme Open-Air Museum is where the "educational system that unified all the ideas of Christianity" of St. Basil the Great and his brothers was born. In the Tokalı church, the Convent of Monks and Nuns, the Chapel of St. Basil, and the Elmalı, Yılanlı, Karanlık, and Çarıklı churches, the architectural details and frescoes seem as alive today as when they were when they were new.
- Ürgüp. Located near Göreme, Ürgüp is a famous city with historical places, natural beauties, and wines. Whether your wine is served to you in a rustic earthenware pitcher or an elegant crystal goblet, it will be an experience that you'll never forget.
- Mustafapaşa. Six kilometres south of Ürgüp is Mustafapaşa (Sinasos), a town justifiably famous for its splendid stone works. The Chapel of St Basil is decorated with motifs reflecting the Iconoclastic system of thought. In Avanos, located 18 kilometres from Nevşehir, there is a tradition of pottery-making that has been alive since Hittite times.
What To Do
- Visit the old churches within the Göreme Open Air Museum and Ürgüp Museum
- Visit Çavuşin and Güllüdere Churches
- See the Kılıçlar Valley and the stunning views from Zelve
- Visit the churches of Ürgüp and Taşkınpaşa Mosque
- See the natural rock formations and the unique landscape in Ürgüp
- Explore the Özkonak ancient underground city
- Check out the popular red pottery making in Avanos
- Take a hot air baloon for more adventure to capture the beautiful natural sights
- Shop around for some local handicrafts and souvenirs to take home
What & Where To Shop in Cappadocia
Cappadocia has several good places where you can shop around for authentic carpets, jewellery and antiquities. The Cumhuriyet Meydani which stretches down Kayseri Caddesi for instance, is one of the main shopping areas.
Accommodation
In the province of Nevşehir, there are several types of accommodation for all kinds of travelers who want to visit and explore Cappadoccia. Therefore, looking for the right place for you to stay comfortably won’t be a problem. From budget hotels to luxury hotels, you can expect excellent facilities and amenities of your accommodation
There are also several budget
hotels as well as holiday rentals in and around the area. Get the best deals on your hotel accommodation in Nevşehir. You can also compare hotel rates directly from the different cities by clicking on the following links below:
- Hotels in Avanos
- Hotels in Göreme
- Hotels in Ortahisar
- Hotels in Üchisar
- Hotels in Ürgüp
- Hotels in Mustafapaşa
