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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This underground "city" is part of the area's Christian history during times of persecution.
The effort, ingenuity and tenacity of these people defy imagination.
How they managed to live and survive is seen via the excellent excavation /preservation carried out by Turkey.
Some tunnels are tiny and quite lengthy, so if you visit then be aware that one must semi…
Amazing – well worth a visit. The colours inside the churches were mind boggling. May was a good month to visit.
This was one of our last places to visit. Obviously saving the best till last. It really is well deserved of its unesco rating. If you have the cash to spare take the early morning balloon flight. There were 160 balloons flying .An impresive sight. Do not miss the area.
If you visit the Cappadocia region in Turkey, the Kaymakli Underground city should definitely be on your iternary. These are centuries old undergound dwelling carved out of the volcanic soft rock. It is fascinating to view the living quarters, grannaries, even a wine cellar. But be warned that this tour requires you to be physically flexible and bend and walk…
Get prepared for the dust during the whole trip. Other than this, the views are very beautiful and impresive.
It is just very interesting to see different kinds of pigeon holes or rocks there. You can picture how people live there in the old old days
The absolute best view in Cappadoccia – views over Pigeon Valley -through to Goreme. Some interesting fact on Pigeon poo!!!
Only did latter half as were dropped off there. Great to view valley from tops – had to look for a way down into the valley.
Smaller than nearby Derinkuyu underground city, Kaymakli is still worth a visit. It is tighter and more claustrophobic, with some very narrow passages that will put a strain to your unfit muscles. Guides are helpful, but the itinerary is very well marked, so you can save the 15 euros or so that guides charge.
My headline describes my experience. I felt that it was so surreal and truly had to pinch myself. Once again walking distance from Goreme. Make sure you have plenty of water, however there are a number of sellers along the way reminding you to stay hydrated.