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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Had read about it but it turns out to be better than expected. Spent about 3-4 hours walking around, exploring most caves, churches and the grounds. Wanted to visit the cafe but it was too crowded. We rented a bicycle and cycled to the open air museum. Parked the bikes under the watchful eye of a security camera and spent…
The Monastery has great views of the surrounding area, is fun to explore, and is definitely worth visiting. One of the highlights of my trip to Cappadocia.
One of the more unusual places on earth……. the scene of more than a few films.
Natural rock formations with a difference.
Yes, guidebooks rate Zelve very high on the list or at least after Goreme. Goreme is a must see and everyone else is there too. Zelve still has tour buses but it is quieter. However, we found that due to rockfalls much of the site is off limits which reduces its size substantially.
It's a reasonable climb (thankfully now up purpose-built stairs) to the top of the 'castle', but the 360 degree views are well worth it. There are some points where more robust barriers would help those (me) suffering from vertigo, as a thin rope didn't quite seem to be enough to separate people from the long plummet to the ground.
Being able to view the landscape from ground level after being on the balloon ride earlier in the day just completed the best ever experience of the most unusual landscape I have ever viewed. Some quaint handcraft shops nearby and we did purchase a very small water colour of the Fairy chimneys from a very small collection of work done…
It's on all the bus tour group schedules because of it's fame. Very interesting caves but you can't take any pictures inside. Very well run
Such a beautiful area. Be sure to visit the carved "cave" churches to see the pigeon coups, the cathedrals, the dining halls etc… such fascinating history. Try to visit an underground city while in the area also. If you have a chance visit a pottery factory such as the large one in the village of Avanos.
Pasabag means the Pacha's ( General’s) vineyard, it is a very common nick name. This site is also called Monks Valley. The name was derived from the cones carved in stones that stand apart. There is a vineyard and a number of tuff cones standing right next to the road.
A chapel dedicated to St. Simeon (Simon), and a hermit’s…
Very unique experience! Worth the trip; see it from above by ballon too! Better deals than Izmir or Istanbul.