Cappadocia

Cappadocia is one of the most fascinating geological and historical areas in the world. Its fertile land and its strange rock formations have provided ample food and shelter for its inhabitants for thousands of years. Here people found land perfect for growing fruits and vegetables, cave dwellings to protect them from the elements, and a bewildering landscape that opened their souls to religious enlightenment.

Millions of years ago a series of volcanic eruptions spewed ash throughout the region, later turning into a soft rock called tuff. Thousands of years of wind and rain formed the strange, cone-shaped rock formations now called fairy chimneys. As people began inhabiting the region they found the soft rock easy to carve, shaping dwellings for themselves inside the fairy chimneys. They found these homes provided perfect insulation; the caves were cool during the hot summer temperatures and preserved warmth during the cold, snowy winters. Placing the entrances to their cave homes high above ground and out of site they also provided perfect camouflage to protect them from their enemies.

In the heart of it all is the village of Goreme, the prime location from which to explore all the mysteries of Cappadocia. Here is a place where living history blends with the modern world. Every modern convenience is provided to visitors, yet you still have a sense of having stepped into another place and time. Goreme’s inhabitants are still living in harmony with their surroundings, much as their ancestors have for centuries. Here you will find Turkish hospitality in abundance. People are curious about their visitors and are always ready to sit and chat over a cup of tea, often extending invitations to their cave homes for a first hand look. This blending of hospitality, history, and spectacular scenery allows a perspective unique in the world.

Whether you are an artist, historian, or outdoor enthusiast, Goreme holds something special for everyone.

For those interested in art and history the area is rich with opportunity for exploration. There are hundreds of ancient cave churches carved into the rocks, with beautiful Byzantine paintings covering the interiors; here you will find one of the highest concentrations of medieval painted churches in the Christian world. A short walk from the center of town is the Goreme Open Air Museum, the first monastery of its kind in the world. Near Goreme is the abandoned town of Zelve, composed entirely of caves in the midst of 3 beautiful valleys. Its honeycombed interiors housed practical dwellings interlaced with religious chambers. Until the 1920′s it was inhabited by both Christians and Muslims living together in harmony.

At one time this area was central on the Silk Road, every road leading from its center like a spoke on a wagon wheel. Visit the caravanserais, an essential place for weary travelers. Learn about the customs and culture of the time, even during dangerous times at the caravanserais every traveler was given a safe place to sleep and a meal to eat.

In Mustafapasa you can see fine examples of Greek architecture; in Cauvsin you can visit an abandoned Greek settlement, the ghost town perched on the side of the village. Visit Ortahisar and Uchisar to wander through ancient fortresses carved from stone.

If you prefer to explore the depths of Cappadocia, there are over 30 underground cities, some reaching depths of 89 meters. The stories these cities tell give a fascinating perspective on the way of life for some of its early settlers and the various conquests in the region.

The diverse landscape of the region makes it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. There are countless valleys to explore, each holding their own special appeal. Hike through the green valley of Ihlara, stopping for a lunch of fresh fish and salad at a restaurant on the river. Walk from Goreme to the castle in Uchisar through Pigeon Valley, admiring the inventive nature of its inhabitants and their pigeon houses, used in the past to collect droppings to provide phosphorus to fertilize the fields. Marvel at the striated rock in Rose and Red Valleys, emblazoned with hues of red, pink, yellow and gold.

Walking is only one way to see the area; it is easy to rent a mountain bike, motor scooter, ATV, or enjoy the scenery by horseback. For a true adventure go white water rafting on the Zamanti River with a group of seasoned professionals. To see Cappadocia at its most spectacular take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, later celebrating your ride with new friends over a champagne toast.

Cappadocia is the kind of place you can return to year after year, each time discovering new wonders. After one visit we expect you will feel much as we do, a passion for its natural beauty, its people and its culture. At Hotel Lalezar we offer you a warm welcome and hope you will find this your home away from home.ng