Cappadocia, Turkey

Introduction to Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia, known for its unique landscapes and historical richness, is a semi-arid region located in the central part of Turkey, covering the provinces of Nevşehir, Kayseri, Aksaray, and Niğde.

Geographical Location

Encompassing approximately 10,000 square kilometers, Cappadocia is nestled in central Anatolia, known for its ethereal geological wonders.

Brief Historical Overview

Cappadocia's history rallies back to the Hittites, succeeded by Persian, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuq, and Ottoman influences. The rich history can be observed in the architecture and artifacts preserved until today.

Unique Geological Features of Cappadocia

Undeniably, Cappadocia's unique geological formations have drawn the attention of travelers worldwide.

Fairy Chimneys

These are peculiar rock formations resulting from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, known locally as 'Peribacaları'. The fairy chimneys have remarkably become the face of Cappadocia.

Rock Formations

Volcanic deposits have been naturally sculpted into fortress-like formations over the years. Towns and villages are partially carved into these natural structures, creating an unusual yet enticing ambiance.

Natural Valleys

Natural valleys like Ihlara Valley, Rose Valley, and Pigeon Valley offer stunning views of the rock formations, vineyards, and orchards, rendering it a hiker's paradise.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Cappadocia's historical significance equally complements its splendid landscapes.

Ancient Cave Churches

A notable set of these structures are the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to churches and frescoes dating back to the 9th century.

Underground Cities

The multi-level underground cities of Cappadocia, like Derinkuyu and Kaymakli, were used as hiding places during invasions and wars. With intricate systems of tunnels and chambers, it's a testament to ancient engineering ingenuity.

Art and Handicrafts in Cappadocia

Beyond the natural and historical sites, Cappadocia has a profound rooted tradition in arts and crafts.

Pottery and Ceramics

Avanos town is famous for pottery and ceramics, thanks to the abundance of clay from the Red River, Kızılırmak. Workshops welcome visitors to witness the traditional methods used in pottery making.

Carpet Weaving

Cappadocia's cities, like Uçhisar and Ürgüp, maintain a long-standing tradition of carpet weaving. You can buy these hand-woven rugs and carpets embroidered with intricate motifs revealing tales of their heritage.

Visiting Cappadocia: Things to Do and See

Whether to absorb its culture or to admire its landscape, Cappadocia promises plenty of experiences.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

One of the most popular activities in Cappadocia is riding a hot air balloon. Floating over the fairy chimneys in the amber light of the sunrise is truly a sight to behold.

Hiking and Trekking Adventures

For the adventurous spirits, exploring Cappadocia's stunning valleys on foot could be an excellent choice. The well-marked trails through Love Valley, Rose Valley, and others offer breathtaking views.

Exploring Local Cuisine

Don't miss out on 'Testi Kebab' - a traditional meat dish served in a clay pot or try 'Mantı' similar to dumplings filled with meat and topped with garlic yogurt.

Wine Tasting Experience

With its fertile valleys, Cappadocia is among Turkey's primary wine-producing regions. Many local wineries offer wine tasting experiences, where you can sample their best wines.

Accommodation in Cappadocia

Cappadocia boasts an array of accommodation types, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts. But an absolute 'must-experience' here is staying in a Cave Hotel.

Cave Hotel Experience

Imagine staying in a room directly carved out of a rock. This is what Cappadocia's Cave Hotels offer, providing a unique blend of comfort, authenticity, and novelty. It is a unique opportunity to experience lives like the ancient Cappadocians did. Common options include the Argos and Museum Hotel.

Budget and Luxury Options

For budget lodgings, Goreme and Urgup are populated with guesthouses and budget inns offering comfort at affordable prices. For those seeking luxury, numerous high-end resorts and boutique hotels promise supreme services, many located around Uchisar and in secluded corners of Goreme.

When to Visit Cappadocia: Climate and Best Time to Travel

The semi-arid climate of Cappadocia makes it an all-year-round destination. However, careful planning can enhance your travel experience.

Seasonal Overview

The region witnesses extremely hot summers and cold, snowy winters. The best time to visit is in the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when the weather is moderate, and the landscape is at its most vibrant.

Tips for Travellers

How to Reach Cappadocia

Whether you're within Turkey or coming from abroad, there are various ways to reach Cappadocia.

Transportation in Turkey

Cappadocia can be reached by air, road, or rail from different parts of Turkey. The fastest way is to take a flight to either Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport or Kayseri Erkilet Airport from Istanbul or Ankara. The airports are both less than an hour’s drive from Goreme, the central town of Cappadocia. Inter-city buses also lead to Cappadocia from several Turkish cities.

Local Transport in Cappadocia

The local cities in Cappadocia are relatively small, and many attractions can be visited by foot. For longer distances, there are 'dolmuş' minibuses, taxis, and car rentals available. Some choose to explore the scenic routes by bicycle or ATV.