Cappadocia is a region located in the Central Anatolia Region and is famous for its historical and natural richness, covering the provinces of Nevşehir, Aksaray, Niğde, Kayseri. This unique geography attracts thousands of tourists every year with its historical fairy chimneys, underground cities, rock-carved churches and balloon tours. Cappadocia attracts travelers of all age groups as a destination that combines history, nature and entertainment. In this article, we will take a comprehensive exploration of Cappadocia from its history to its natural beauties and places to visit.
General Information About Cappadocia
How to get to Cappadocia?
Transportation to Cappadocia is quite easy. You can easily reach Cappadocia from Nevşehir Airport or Kayseri Erkilet Airport. There are direct flights from Istanbul to Nevşehir or Kayseri. You can also reach Cappadocia by bus or private car. It takes approximately 30 minutes from Nevşehir city center to Cappadocia.
Historical and Cultural Heritage of Cappadocia
Historical Depth of Cappadocia
Cappadocia holds an important place in history. The region has been home to many civilizations such as the Hittites, Phrygians, Persians, Roman Empire and Byzantine Empire. The magnificent Underground Cities, one of the most well-known historical structures of Cappadocia, carries the traces of life from ancient times to today. These underground cities were just a few of the defensive structures of the region.
Rock Houses and Churches of Cappadocia
Cappadocia’s rock houses and churches also attract attention. There are rock-carved structures and frescoes in areas such as Göreme Open Air Museum, Zelve Valley and Çavuşin Village. Religious buildings such as Göreme Church and Tokalı Church are among the most important structures bearing the Byzantine traces of Cappadocia. These structures draw attention with their fine workmanship carved into the rock.
Natural Beauties of Cappadocia
Fairy Chimneys
The first thing that comes to mind when it comes to Cappadocia is undoubtedly the Fairy Chimneys. Located between Avanos, Ürgüp and Göreme, these impressive rock formations were formed by wind and water erosion over millions of years. Fairy Chimneys are world famous for their mesmerizing shapes and natural beauty. Visitors can see these extraordinary structures up close by hiking in the areas where fairy chimneys are located.
Ihlara Valley
Ihlara Valley, another natural wonder of Cappadocia, is a perfect place for those who love hiking. In the Ihlara Valley, the Ihlara Stream, born from Mount Melendiz, flows gently through the valley and is surrounded by green trees. While hiking, churches and monasteries carved into the rocks dating back hundreds of years can also be discovered.
Avanos
Avanos district of Cappadocia is famous for its natural beauty and ceramic art. The Red River plays an important role in this region and complements the natural landscape surrounding Avanos. The ceramics traditionally produced in Avanos are handmade and offered for sale, and the area is also famous for its ceramic workshops.
Places to visit in Cappadocia
Goreme Open Air Museum
Goreme Open Air Museum is one of the most important and most visited spots in Cappadocia. This open-air museum, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage list, offers important information about the history of Cappadocia with churches, monasteries and period frescoes carved into the rocks. The Elmalı Church, the Church of St. Basileus and the Serpent Church in Goreme are among the most striking structures.
Kaymakli and Derinkuyu Underground Cities
The underground cities in Cappadocia attract attention with traps and rooms built for the defense of the region. Kaymaklı Underground City and Derinkuyu Underground City are great places to visit for those who want to see such structures.
Uchisar Castle
Uchisar Castle is one of the highest places in Cappadocia and offers panoramic views of Cappadocia. The castle, made of rocks, was used to defend the region and creates a magnificent view with the surrounding Fairy Chimneys. Watching the sunset from here allows you to admire the unique nature of Cappadocia.
Activities and Experiences in Cappadocia
Balloon Tour
One of the most famous activities in Cappadocia is a balloon tour. These early morning balloon tours are the perfect opportunity to explore Cappadocia’s natural beauties such as the magnificent Fairy Chimneys and Ihlara Valley from the sky. Balloon tours have become a symbol of the region and attract thousands of tourists every year.
Cappadocia Hiking Routes
Cappadocia has excellent hiking routes to explore its natural beauties. Hikes to areas such as Rose Valley, Red Valley and Ihlara Valley allow you to experience the unique natural structure of the region. It also offers the opportunity to visit hidden rock churches and chapels.
Shopping in Cappadocia
Cappadocia Handicrafts
Cappadocia is famous for traditional handicrafts such as ceramics and carpets. Avanos is the center of ceramic making and handmade ceramics made here can be bought as souvenirs. Wool carpets and rugs are also among the traditional handicrafts of the region.
