Cappadocia is a semi-arid region in central Turkey known for its distinctive fairy chimneys—tall, cone-shaped rock formations that dot the area. If, like me, you are traveling from Istanbul, you can either fly or drive. Driving was my choice, though it’s a long way and requires an overnight in Ankara.
Göreme Valley is a must-visit tourist destination in Cappadocia, world famous due to its high- concentration of conical rock formations and ancient cave dwellings. This unique and otherworldly landscape earned Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia a UNESCO World Heritage Site title. It attracts millions of visitors from all over the world who come to witness its remarkable natural beauty and learn about its rich cultural heritage.
The valley has a history dating back to ancient times. It was first settled by the Hittites around the 2nd millennium BCE and later became an important center for early Christians during the Roman and Byzantine periods. The soft volcanic rock found here allowed the inhabitants to carve out underground cities, cave churches, monasteries, and homes, many of which are still preserved today.
One of the main attractions in Göreme Valley is the Göreme Open Air Museum, an ancient monastic settlement consisting of numerous rock-cut churches, chapels, and dwellings. These structures are adorned with well-preserved frescoes dating back to the 10th to 12th centuries.
The complex is an important site for Byzantine art and early Christian history, dating back to the 4th century. Apart from the churches, the museum also features rock-cut monastic complexes and dwellings. These structures give visitors a sense of how the early Christian communities lived and worshipped in Cappadocia's unique geological environment.
A short drive away is Uçhisar Castle, a historical landmark located in the town of Uçhisar. It is one of the most distinctive and iconic features of the Cappadocia region. The castle is a natural rock formation that has been carved and shaped over centuries. It is composed of soft volcanic rock known as tuff, which was formed from volcanic ash millions of years ago.
The castle has a complex network of tunnels, rooms, and passages carved into the rock. It served as a natural fortress in ancient times, providing strategic advantages for defense against invaders. The unique rock formations also allowed for the construction of homes, storage rooms, and even pigeon houses within the castle.
Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley, is another notable attraction in the region, situated near the town of Avanos, not far from Göreme. It is a popular hiking trail and viewpoint renowned for its surreal rock formations that resemble various shapes and figures. The landscape is often described as a natural sculpture park due to the fascinating shapes created by wind and erosion over thousands of years. These rock formations have evoked the imagination of visitors, leading to names such as Camel Rock, Snake Rock, and Fairy Chimneys.
Unlike other valleys in Cappadocia, Devrent Valley does not have cave dwellings or churches. However, it offers a picturesque setting for hiking, photography, and enjoying the incredible geological formations up close. Many visitors find it an ideal place for creative exploration, as the abstract shapes of the rocks can inspire imaginative interpretations. It's not surprising that Devrent Valley is a popular stop for guided tours and self-guided explorations in Cappadocia, allowing visitors to marvel at the whimsical beauty of the natural rock formations and capture memorable photos.
Another popular activity is to take an early morning balloon ride over the region. However, it is worth noting that it depends on weather conditions. While the weather was clear each morning I was there, strong winds were detected higher up, and all flights were canceled each morning. Good thing there is plenty to see and do on the ground.
By Jeremiah Gilbert
Jeremiah Gilbert is an award-winning photographer and travel writer. His travels have taken him to over a hundred countries and territories spread across six continents. His photography has been published internationally, in both digital and print publications, and has been exhibited worldwide, including in Leica’s LFI Gallery. He is the author of the collections Can’t Get Here from There: Fifty Tales of Travel, From Tibet to Egypt: Early Travels After a Late Start, and On to Plan C: A Return to Travel.
He is also a recipient of the Narrative Excellence Medal (N.E.M), from The Relatable Voice Magazine.
Website: https://jeremiahgilbert.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jg_travels/
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