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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Its about man kind and beginning of man kind in the caves and how well in kept with good guides that we had its a must that all must see .to protect from enemies / sun / show ect !
We spent three days in this area. It is truly spectacular. There are many things to do and see. The balloon flights are fabulous. Pictures do no do them justice, The cave ruins and underground cities really make you think and picture how early civilization lived.
Horse back ride was great through the valleys. The hot air balloon ride is a must in this area. Book in advance. Once in a lifetime view!!!!
I'm amazed at the cleverness of people when they are pushed into a corner. These Underground Cities were built by villagers to hide from armies.
You have to get your imagination hard at work to "see" the city.
Not too hard an ascent to the top, well worth it for the views, also interesting surrounding buildings.
Well worth the visit. The audio guide is recommended, and make sure you pay the extra for the other church, the frescos inside are magnificent.
I came to this region for the lovely rock formations, cave dwellings, and interesting history. The rock is soft a kind of tuffa limestone. When Roman and subsequent invaders came the locals and especially early Christians (who were hunted n exterminated) built homes, churches and entire cities (including stables) in this area. Due to erosion and modern day vandalism the…
There aren't as many fairy chimneys in Pigeon Valley, but if you like hiking it is great. I was heading from Goreme to Uchisar and I managed to get a little lost. I eventually made it, and on the way I discovered a waterfall and some awesome natural tunnels. A great way to spend the day.
I didn't give this 3 stars because anything was necessarily wrong, it just wasn't my cup of tea. If you're amazed that people lived in caves a thousand, (or however long) ago, you'll dig it.
The Goreme open air Musuem is a wonderous place where you`ll find a concentration of churches most notably the Dark Church (4 euros entry fee for this one) the dim interior and lack of sunlight except of a small window to filter the light through, hence the name The Dark Church. Frescoes here are in very good condition. Among others…