Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a region in the southwest of Turkey that is located in the center of Anatolia. In addition to its unique moon-like landscape, the town is also popular for its underground cities. As well as the cave churches, and houses carved into the rocks. There are two options for getting to Cappadocia: by air or by road, depending on where you are coming from.
Also, this popular tourist destination in Turkey is well-deserved. It offers a plethora of cultural, historical, and outdoor activities that can keep visitors entertained for days on end. Consider spending at least three full days in this location. Make your home in Göreme, a charming village that is home to fairy chimney restaurants and cave suit accommodations. In addition, there are numerous bars, shops, and tourist excursions available in the town, which serves as an excellent jumping off point for hiking, horseback riding, and/or mountain biking.
It is believed that the name Cappadocia comes from the Persian word Katpaktukya, which translates as ‘the land of beautiful horses. Because the region was once famous for its equine offerings in ancient times. Horses are still very important to the people who live in Cappadocia. They also serve as an alternative mode of transportation for tourists visiting the region.
Facts about Cappadocia
Below is the list of some interesting facts about Cappadocia to assist you in learning more about the region.
- An eruption series shook the Central Anatolian region three to four million years ago. Forming what we now know as the Cappadocia fairies or ‘Cotton Castles,’ which are a result of the volcanic activity.
- The landscape of Cappadocia change by volcanic erosion over thousands of years. Tuff forms when thick ash solidified into soft rock, and over time. The tuff rocks erodes by wind and water, resulting in the iconic fairy chimneys that can be spot around the world today.
- In Cappadocia, there are a number of underground cities, some of which link together by a network of tunnels. It is only possible because of the pliability of the soft rock that these subterranean settlements were set. Many are open to the public, but a large portion of the land in the area is privately possess by individuals.
- The village of Göreme, which serves as the region’s primary tourist destination. And is also one of the last remaining Cappadocian settlements, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Because they were able to hide in the area during the Arab invasion. Christians gave the town of Göreme its name, which translates as “you cannot see here.”
- Music concerts are frequently happen in the caves surrounding Cappadocia. Including the week-long Cappadocia Music Festival, which features choirs and orchestras from around the world.
What is the best way to get to Cappadocia? The flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia takes only an hour and a half. To get to Goreme, fly into either Kayseri or Nevsehir airports and then take a shuttle bus or a private taxi to the town.
Also, the best time to visit Cappadocia is between the end of April and the beginning of June, when the days are warmer and the nights are cooler. Another excellent time is right after the Autumn season ends, which is in September and October. It will be cooler, but there will be no wind or snow, so the balloons will not sham.
