The Turkish region of Cappadocia, a region of exceptional natural wonders, in particular characterized by fairy chimneys and a unique historical and cultural heritage, boasts one of the most dramatic sights in the world.
Visiting Cappadocia is such a change from visiting many other busy bustling sights all over Turkey. It is a great pleasure to wander in the vast open space filled with captivating natural attractions which have seen human history dated back in the Bronze Age.
While in Goreme Open Air Museum , the conical formations resulting from the volcanic eruptions that took place millions of years ago, just follow the path up to the top of one of the ridges where a spectacular view of the fairy chimneys awaits you. The natural cone formations contain caves and labyrinths. As early as the third century, those chimneys became a hiding place for early Christians who fled persecution from the Romans, and then later from raiding Muslims. In modern tourism, many caves have been turned into cave houses for tourist stays and the lunar-like setting of Goreme Valley has become popular for hot-air ballooning.
Many say the extremely unique landscape of Cappadocia resembles some scene in a Star Wars movie and yet you may be surprised to discover that no major commercial movies have been filmed there. It would be a perfect setting for movies such as Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter series.
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We had a pleasant walk out to the museum from Goreme (around 2Km). The caves are plenty interesting and worth a visit. But be careful of the swarms of tour buses – the day we went it was packed with french tourists who were pretty rude – I got tutted and asked to move out of the way a few…
We arrived and paid the parking just for the last 5min before the sun went down but totally worth the view.
Definitely recommend going through the Caves with a guide!! Very easy to get lost in the maze!!
We visited close to lunch time & found the tunnels a little busy but not overwhelmingly so. We didn't have our own guide but heard criticism that their commentary was not particularly informative. I found this underground city fascinating but wish I had taken to time to read more about their history before visiting.
The historical implications of the various folk that used these dwellings for protection. Imagine Christians in hiding.
Church of Saint Barbara, was an Egyptian martyr who was imprisoned by her father in order to protect her from the influences of Christianity. Barbara nevertheless found a way to practice her faith and her father tortured and killed her.
Built in the late 11th Century, the church was possibly built as a tribute to the Martyr-Saint.
Beautiful and captivating. Definitely don't miss out.
Got this mixed up with the National Park which was great with different shapes of fairy chimneys. This was the museum where the underground city was so check my National Park review which tells you about the Open air Museum!
There is just nothing like Goreme's generous helping of moonscapes and caves.
We took a hike here in the evening, saw some amazing caves and churches in the rocks, and caught sunset from the top of a ridge – definitely a wonderful and unforgettable experience!