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5. The Carved Churches
Cappadocia is also famous for its strong historical connection to medieval times, as shown by the rock-cut churches scattered across the land. These churches number up to 600, and there is a possibility that many more are yet to be discovered. The chapels were carved into the soft Cappadocian rock by monks in the dark ages, and some of them retain their original impressive frescoes with amazing detail.
Nonetheless, some of the paintings have been damaged by extensive erosion and superstitious locals who scratched out the eyes of some of the figures due to fear of the Evil Eye. The most visited churches are found in Goreme Open Air Museum, while others are in Zelve, Rose Valley, and Red Valley.
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4. The Best Views
It’s no doubt that Cappadocia looks great, and exploring the area exposes some stunning sights. Nonetheless, for the best view of the region in all its glory, take a hot air balloon flight across the Cappadocian skies. From the air, the region’s moonscape topography offers one of the most unforgettable sights.
It is no wonder that hot air ballooning in Cappadocia attracts up to more than a million tourists annually. Over 100 hot air balloons take to the skies during the morning, which is spectacular scenery. Therefore, if you want to enjoy the most scenic views of the rock-cut churches and fairy chimneys, a hot air balloon flight is a no-brainer.
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3. Inhabitants
Cappadocia has had human settlers since the Paleolithic Era. Between 2500 to 2000 BCE, the Hatti culture called this region home and was closely followed by the Hittites, who settled here around 2000 BCE. The Assyrians also established trading posts in Cappadocia at around the same time. From 1250 BCE, the region has changed rulers from Phrygians and Persians to the Romans in 17 CE. In medieval times, the area was home to Christian communities and people escaping religious persecution, and thus, the inhabitants led a monastic way of life for a thousand years.
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Famous for its unique rock formations and amazing hot air ballooning opportunities, the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia are one of Turkey’s most popular natural wonders. Unusual honeycombed boulders rise from the plateau of Central Anatolia and have, over the centuries, served as the backdrop for a history equally as fascinating. The region was once the heartland of the Hittite Empire and later gave rise to some of Christianity’s earliest philosophers. Cappadocia is now a prime tourist destination and one of the best places to visit in Turkey. To help you learn a little more about the region, we’ve put together ten interesting facts about Cappadocia.
