IZMIR

Izmir - ( Izmir, Izmir Place, turkey Izmir, Information about izmir, Izmir History )

Izmir Information: Izmir, the city which is home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World...
"I am 8,500 years old..." says the city of Homer...
The legendary female warriors, the Amazons, founded Izmir, or Smyrna as it was called in Ancient Times, according to one story. Alternatively, according to another tale, the Lelegs established it. The city is located on the Aegean Coast in the west of Turkey, and the city is the biggest and most important settlement in the Aegean Region. Izmir, which has managed to modernize whilst preserving its archaeological and historical assets, is an important trade centre, because of its port. The diversity of activities and resources that Izmir is able to provide makes it a very attractive area for tourism. It boasts both spas with healing thermal waters, and the deep blue sea with beaches displaying the safety symbol of the blue flag. Izmir resonates with the water and the wind. Benefiting from the breeze from the Aegean Sea, Izmir enjoys a well-deserved reputation due to sights and ruins such as Bergama (Pergamon), Çeşme, Foça, Kemalpaşa, Selçuk, Tire and Urla, which are outstanding in terms of the richness of their natural and historical assets. It offers visitors many options for a unique holiday experience. Its geographical location means that Izmir enjoys a Mediterranean climate plus natural beauty, a rich cultural and historical heritage, beaches, thermal waters and spas. In addition, it boasts a rich cuisine, featuring grapes, figs, olives, citrus fruits and seafood, as well as the legacies left by civilizations over thousands of years.
The city, known as "Beautiful Izmir" in Turkey, is located at the start of a long and narrow gulf, decorated with yachts, passenger ships and gulf steamers. It has a warm climate and the cooling sea breeze in the summer takes away the burning heat of the sun. Izmir, which enjoys a special cultural and historical identity, is the third largest city in Turkey. Its port, located inside the gulf, is the second largest in Turkey. As a lively and cosmopolitan city, it occupies a significant place in Turkey's cultural life with the International Arts Festival and International Fair. The whole of the coastal road is enchanting. The districts of Alsancak and Karşıyaka are areas offering great opportunities to meet the locals in the many restaurants, cafes and along walking paths.
Address: IZMIR / TURKEY

ISTANBUL

Istanbul - ( Istanbul, Information about Istanbul, turkey Istanbul, Istanbul Information, Istanbul History )

Istanbul Information
Istanbul is truly a world city, a city which everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. It is an enchanting blend of Eastern and Western culture, a vibrant, modern city, with a unique identity. Its rich past coexists alongside its youthful exuberance. Although no longer the capital of Turkey, Istanbul still remains the country's cultural and business centre.
It is a city of contrasts, bustling with the cacophony of 21st century life, and is yet achingly beautiful. It is set in a stunning location, surrounded by water, which is the narrow strait of the Bosphorus and the serene sea of Marmara separating Europe from Asia. Istanbul has a foot in each, celebrating the best of both heritages. As Byzantium, Constantinople and finally, Istanbul, it has been the capital of three Empires, each leaving their mark in the form of stunning palaces, castles, mosques, churches and monuments. The legacy of its chequered past can be seen on every turn of the modern city.
The layout of Istanbul can seem confusing at first. The Bosphorus divides the city into the European and Asian sides, linked by two magnificient bridges, spanning the continents, the first of which was opened in 1973 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Republic. Most visitors to the city, staying for a few days, will have little reason to visit the Asian side, except for as part of a Bosphorus tour, on a boat which zigzags from side to side, to take in the best of each.
The European side, however, is also divided in two by the Golden Horn or Haliç, which roughly divides the historic part of old Istanbul, encompassing the areas of, Sultanahmet and Laleli, from the modern city. It is crossed by a number of bridges, the most famous of which is the pontoon, the Galata Bridge. Most visitors on short city breaks stay in the old town as the vast majority of the sites which they will be visiting are in this area. Istanbul's most famous sites - The Blue Mosque, Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia), Topkapı Sarayı (Palace) and the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) - are all within a 30 minute walk of each other. It is easy to get around on foot or by making use of the tram, which provides a regular service on the pedestrianised main street. In terms of accommodation, there are now a number of characterful boutique hotels in the area of Sultanahmet, many of which are restored Ottoman wooden mansions. These are ideal for those who really want to savour the authentic atmosphere of the Old Town. Those on a budget, may want to consider the more modern, and competitively priced hotels of the Laleli district, although this area is much busier.
Although it is convenient, the disadvantage of staying in the Old Town, is that, since it is not a residential area, you don't really benefit from the ambience of the modern city of Istanbul, with its excellent restaurants, lively bars, and cosmopolitan feel. Some of Istanbul's finest, most luxurious hotels are located on the Bosphorus with stunning views over the straits, or in the modern business districts. There are also some historic establishments in the area known as Pera, which blossomed at the turn of the last century. The heart of modern Istanbul, is Taksim Square and the streets around. The advantage of staying here is that in the evenings you have a wealth of restaurants and relaxed bars within an easy walk of your hotel.
Wherever you choose to stay, it doesn't take much to make the most of the city, and even three days will give you the opportunity to see the highlights. It is such a large city, however, that even if you visit time and time again, you can still discover something new each time. It is easy to get around. There are a couple of handy trams - one in the old town, and the other in the main shopping street in Pera, Istiklal Caddesi. Taxis are plentiful and relatively cheap and there are also dolmush and bus services for those who really want to explore. Most tour operators can arrange tours to see the main sights.
The Bosphorus Some of Istanbul's finest vistas are to be seen from the Bosphorus. If you have time it is well worth spending at least half a day viewing the sights and savouring the atmosphere. You can take a guided tour on a small boat, or Turkish Maritime Lines (TDI) runs a good value public ferry service which leaves two or three times a day and does the full round trip as far as Anadolu Kavağı, the nearest village to the Black Sea on the Asian side, and back to Eminönü. It is a charming place, known for its fish restaurants, and the walk up to the ruined fortress overlooking the village, is well worth it for the stunning views. As you leave from Eminönü you can benefit from some beautiful views back towards the old town with its evocative skyline of turreted roofs and minarets. As you head towards the Black Sea you will pass the Dolmabahçe Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace and the 15th century fortresses built by Mehmet II, Rumeli Hisarı and Anadolu Hisarı. Also look out for the stunning wooden Ottoman mansions, many of which have been renovated and form some of the city's most desirable residences. Even if you don't have time for a Bosphorus trip just take one of the distinctive city ferries for a quick trip from Eminönü to the Asian shores and back - to Üsküdar for example, just to admire the views of the old town.
The Princes Islands Those who are staying for a little longer in Istanbul, should really set aside a day to visit these charming islands in the sea of Marmara, just off the coast of Istanbul. The picturesque scenery of wooded hills, charming beaches and authentic Ottoman mansions, combined with the tranquil atmosphere, make for a pleasant contrast to the city itself. Easily reached by ferry or hydrofoil, the ambience of the islands seems worlds away. Büyük Ada, or "Big Island" is the most popular with visitors. No cars are allowed but you can take a trip in a horse and carriage to visit the Monastery of St. George.
Address: Istanbul / TURKEY

FETHIYE

Fethiye - ( Fethiye, Fethiye Place, turkey Fethiye, Fethiye Information, Fethiye History )

Information About Fethiye In history Fethiye was known as the "Untouched Virgin of the Lands Lights" and today it is as if all the magnificence of the entire Mediterranean was concentrated in the bay of Fethiye : Its islands ,coves, long sandy beaches, and the entire riches of its history and natural beauty are before yopu to explore .With its excellent seas, highly developed facilities, and entertainment beyond belief, it is a paradise that caters to your possible requirement for remarkable holiday. The most impressive ancients ruins, the best sites for pragliding and water sports, most magnificent bays and beaches come together at Fethiye, along with mouth watering gastronomy.
Fethiye is a traditional market town set around a beautiful natural harbour. It is a large centre for scuba diving. Boats depart from here for day trips around the stunning coastline. The most popular boat trip is the twelve islands boat trip, which is an extremely relaxing way to spend the day, touring the beautiful coves and islands of the Gulf of Fethiye, with breaks for lunch and swimming. Life here continues all year around, and recently, many British nationals have chosen to make this relaxed area their home. There are a number of hotels in the town itself, which mostly attract older couples, who enjoy the traditional lifestyle and also like the fact that it is flat and easy to get around. There is a greater variety of shops in the narrow streets of the bazaar area, Paspatour, offering more competitive prices than those in any of the resorts. This area is also lively in the evening with a multitude of Turkish bars and live music. There is no beach in Fethiye itself although there are hotels which have access to the sea for swimming. Once the site of Telmessos, all that remains from this ancient city, are the Lycian rock tombs which overlook the modern town, a couple of Lycian sarcophagi and a small Roman theatre.
Oludeniz Ölüdeniz is the archetypal picture-postcard beach backed by dramatic pine-clad hills. Literally translated as 'dead sea', the stunning lagoon is a protected area, ensuring that its natural beauty is preserved. There is a small entrance charge to use the lagoon beach and only non-motorised watersports are allowed. The main resort beach is a long stretch of coarse sand and shingle beach known as Belceğiz. Most of the houses, built in the traditional local Muğla style, are set back from the beachfront. There is a strip alongside the seafront promenade with a number of relaxing bars and restaurants, serving local and international cuisine. Shops stay open well into the night. It is a perfect family resort, great for a laid-back beach holiday, with plenty of facilities but not too much development. Boats depart from the bay for trips around the surrounding coast. Paragliding is a big draw with the descent from the Babadağ mountains to land on Belceğiz beach, rating as one of the best in the world.
Hisaronu Fifteen years ago there were only a few houses here but now it is a lively resort in its own right. Due to the planning restrictions and lack of space to expand in Ölüdeniz itself, many holidaymakers now stay in this lively village. It is in a stunning location, surrounded by stunning pine-clad mountains, and hotels are all built in the local style, low rise, mostly with rooms set in villa-style blocks and decorative wooden balconies. The beach of Ölüdeniz is just a short dolmush ride away (approx. 15 minutes), and the town of Fethiye is also very close, approximately the same distance away in the opposite direction. You can, however, easily spend your time in Hisarönü , lazing by the pool, and venturing out at the night to sample international or local fare in one of the many restaurants or visit its lively bars playing music well into the early hours. There are plenty of shops with a wider range on offer than in Ölüdeniz itself.
Ovacık Just a short distance from Hisarönü, is the newer resort area of Ovacık, which is essentially a collection of hotels and apartment buildings, blending in with the stunning mountain scenery. It is more peaceful than its neighbour, and all facilities are in the centre of Hisarönü just a short walk or dolmuş ride away. Ovacık makes a good base for those who want to walk in the surrounding countryside. Çalış Beach The nearest beach to Fethiye is Çalış beach, a pebble and coarse sand beach in a beatiful setting, which can be reached by boat or dolmuş from the town center. The seafront promenade with its hotels and restaurants is closed to traffic during the summer, making it safe for children. The resort has expanded around the beach, and has a relaxed feel popular with families and older couples.
Kayakoy One of the highlights of a stay in this area is a visit to the eerie ghost town of Kayaköy, literally 'stone village'. Once the Greek town of Karmylassos, it was abandoned in the 1920's. It has recently been the subject of renewed interest as it features as the setting for Louis de Bernières novel, 'Birds without Wings' which provides a fascinating insight into life here and the period of dramatic social change which took place in the time leading up to the foundation of the Republic of Turkey. There are around 400 houses here together with churches and other public buildings. It can be visited by dolmush on foot from Hisarönü or even on horse-back.
Gocek Göcek is popular with yacthing types who come here for its excellent marina. It is a charming resort with a range of sophisticated hotels and upmarket restaurants and boutiques. Saklıkent Gorge Known in Turkish as the 'hidden city' Saklıkent is a stunning mountain gorge some 44 kms from Fethiye, a narrow opening stretching an incredible 18 kms into the rockface of Mount Akdağ. A wooden walkway has been constructed above the icy cold waters of the mountain springs of Gökçesu and Ulupınar. If you are feeling particularly brave you can take a dip here, but otherwise the waterside cafes provide a relaxing break and a chance to enjoy the spectacular setting.
Address: Mugla Fetiye/ TURKEY

BODRUM

Bodrum - ( Bodrum, Bodrum Place, turkey Bodrum, Bodrum Information, Bodrum History )

Bodrum Information A world renowned holiday and entertainment peninsula, Bodrum is a paradise for its climate, sea, natural beauty, magnificent coves and history, as well as for its modern nightlife where the show goes on until sunrise. Its many resorts and hotels cater for every need of their visitors. Since the dawn of the time, Bodrum, known in antiquity as Halircarnasus, has amazed human beings, and carried imprint of many cultures and civilizations, including the Carian, Leleges', Persian, Dorian, Helen, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman
Sights & Attractions: The seaside villages, bays and coves of Bodrum, Gümbet, Bitez, Ortakent, Bağla, Aspat, Karaincir, Akyarlar, Turgutreis, Gümüşlük, Yalıkavak, Gündoğan, Göltürkbükü, Torba, Güllük, are world-famous, and each has its own charm and peculiarities. Bodrum Castle, built by The Knights of St. John, which has become a symbol of the peninsula. At present it hosts the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology which was awarded the 'Certificate of Special Commendation' in the 'European Museum of the Year Award' competition in 1995. For the history enthusiast, another must see place in Bodrum is the remains of the Mausoleum.
Blue Voyage: The Blue Voyage, also known as the Blue Cruise ("Mavi Yolculuk" in Turkish) is a term used for the recreational boating tours departing from Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, Gökova, Fethiye and Antalya. These trips are a unique tranquil holidays to enjoy the beautiful bays and coves which can only be reached by sea, to swim in unpolluted waters in a myriad of shades of blue, to visit magnificent antique sites such as Knidos.
Gümbet Named after the domed water-cisterns that speckle the countryside near-by, Gümbet is the closest beach to Bodrum - just 10 minutes away by car - and is very popular with British holidaymakers, many of whom choose to stay here close to the beach and venture into Bodrum at night. As it has grown in popularity, however, Gümbet has developed in its own right and now offers a wide choice of lively bars and restaurants, popular with a young crowd. Its long sandy beach is lined with hotels and pensions which attract many young people and water-sports enthusiasts with its large windsurfing school and diving courses.
Gumusluk Reached by a winding road from Gürece, Gümüşlük is very popular for its secluded setting. Ever since being designated as an archaelogical site, no major buildings have been allowed to alter the landscape, making it a very pleasant place to stay with its unspoilt scenery, long sand and gravel beach and a handful of excellent fish restaurants perched right on the sea-front. The site of the ancient Myndos, Gümüşlük is scattered with remnants of its historical past: as you look out towards the harbour you will spot the fortification wall, an ancient tower and submerged walls. Also, if you walk towards the south end of the beach, you will also be able to swim very close to some of the ruins, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling. Gümüşlük is accessible by dolmuş from Bodrum or from Turgutreis.
Turgutreis A sophisticated new marina adorns the waterfront at Turgutreis, complete with exclusive cafes, restaurants and boutiques, as well as a host of new bars and discos. Thought not very sandy, its beach is very popular with families because the sea is shallow for quite a way out, making it safer for young children. For a more peaceful alternative to the main beach, there is also a long and sandy beach near the lighthouse on the way towards Akyarlar. There is also good access to Bodrum from Turgutreis, with a regular dolmuş service that stops at the main square in Turgutreis.
Yalıkavak Formerly the area's main sponge-fishing port, the village of Yalıkavak maintains a relaxing atmosphere for quaint seaside eating. Its position in the north-western corner of the peninsula, 18 km from Bodrum means it is one of the least developed spots in the area with fewer hotels and self-catering apartments, making it an enjoyable stay away from the crowds. As you reach the bay, you will notice the ruins of three old windmills on the hills - the hills around the village are also perfect for picnics and walks, particularly in the spring when they are covered with a colourful carpet of wild flowers bursting newly into bloom.
Turkbuku Türkbükü is one of the Bodrum's best-kept secrets with its array of exclusive hotels, excellent sea-front restaurant s situated on wooden piers and trendy bars that burst into life after sunset. By day, its beach-front cafes and hotels are havens for the jet-set, with fantastic views of the beautiful bay and wooden platforms dotted with sophisticated sun-loungers from which to swim. Bitez: Bitez lies on a bay, a few kilometers west from Bodrum, attracting an older, more up-market crowd. The gently-sloping coarses and beach has wooden piers for swimming and is lined whitewashed hotels and resort villas, whilst also host to a popular windsurfing and sailing school - Its sheltered cove and swallow water are perfect for beginners. Backed by lush tangerine orchards, Bitez is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds, whilst also having good access to Bodrum with direct dolmuşes to and from the city.
Ortakent You can reach Ortakent from the main highway west of Bodrum and it is very popular with Turkish families. Its two-kilometer long beach is considered by many to be one of the best on the peninsula and is dotted with several restaurants, motels and some unique tower-houses. BODRUM HISTORY

Address: Mugla Bodrum / TURKEY

ANTALYA

Antalya - ( Antalya, Antalya Place, turkey Antalya, Antalya information, Antalya Turkey )

Antalya Information Antalya, the Turkish Riviera is the most stunning part of Turkey's Mediterranean coast. It is typical of Turkey, a thriving modern city, with a historic heart in the centre of Kaleiçi within the old city walls. This area has seen something of a renaissance in recent years, with many of the wooden Ottoman mansions being restored and turned into boutique hotels. No cars are allowed in the narrow streets of the old town so it is a good place to soak up the atmosphere around the charming harbour. The symbol of Antalya is the fluted minaret or Yivli Minare built by the Seljuks in the 13th century. There are plenty of interesting pieces in the Archaeological Museum, from the Palaeolithic Age right through to Ottoman times. Antalya has a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery, and the city is set high on cliffs, with many of its grandest hotels overlooking the sea on the outskirts of the town. The beach area of Lara, approximately 12 km to the east is home to the best beach in the area, known for its golden sand, which is rapidly becoming a resort in its own right. To the west, the long pebble beach of Konyaaltı is also popular. Heading up into the mountains, you can make the most of the beautiful scenery by visiting the spectacular Düden or Kurşunlu waterfalls. At Saklıkent, just 50 km away from the city centre, you can even ski, where they usually have snow on the slopes until early April. The Altın Portakal (Golden Orange) film festival is held annually in the autumn. Antalya has a large number of 5 star hotels, many of which have meetings facilities, and this, together with the Pyramid Congress Centre which can hold up to 3000 delegates make it a popular venue for conferences. There are many holiday resorts like Alanya ,Belek, Kalkan, Kaş, Kekova, Kemer, Olympos, Patara, Side within the borders of Antalya region Antalya History
The most popular Historic Sites of Antalya Region: Aspendos: Just 50 km east of Antalya, Aspendos was an important centre of trade during Roman times. Today, the most impressive aspect of Aspendos is her stunning theatre, which was built in approx. 162 AD. It seats 15,000 and has been beautifully preserved. Each year it hosts the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival which takes place in June and July and gives you the opportunity to see performances of classics in a magnificent setting. The aqueduct, which supplied water to the city is also still relatively intact and is an impressive sight. Phaselis: The three harbours of this Lycian port city were once a major commercial centre. In the shelter of Mount Tahtalı, it is a popular stopping off point for yachts, and its clear waters and sandy beaches are popular with sun-seekers. The remains are mostly Roman and include a theatre, baths, aqueducts, Hadrian's Gate, an agora and an acropolis. Perge: Just 18 kms from Antalya, Perge was an important city in Pamphylia and was visited by St.Paul during his missionary journeys. Today, the city gate flanked by lofty towers, theatre and baths are of interest. Demre: Also known as Kale, the ancient city of Myra, is mostly famous for its connection with St. Nicholas, who was bishop here in the 4th century. His church is the focus of the annual ceremony which takes place to commemorate him on or around his feast day of 6th December. It is well worth seeing the Roman theatre which remains here, overlooked by spectacular rock tombs, dating from the 4th century BC.

Address: Antalya / TURKEY

ALANYA

Alanya - ( Alanya, Alanya Place, turkey Alanya, Alanya information )

Alanya Information Alanya is a beautiful holiday centre with its beautiful sandy beaches, modern hotels and motels, as well as numerous fish restaurants, cafes, clubs and bars. The cafes that ring the harbour are popular gathering places for tourists and locals. From the towns lovely park, the road runs along the coast to the harbour, lined with many small shops that offer handicrafts, leather clothes, jewellery, handbags and the amusing painted gourds that are unique to the area. There are three blue flag beaches and many sights including Damlataş Cave, Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, Dim Çayı Valley, three see grottoes: Fosforlu Mağara, Kızlar Mağarası and Aşıklar Mağarası and many more.
If you like to explore caves, then you must see Damlatas Cave. Near the cave is the Ethnography Museum. By boat you can reach three other caves: the Phosphorous Cave with its phosphoric rocks, Girls Cave (Kizlar Cave), where pirates held their women prisoners, and Lovers Cave (Asiklar Cave). The cool shade of Dim Brook Valley, 15 km east of Alanya, is an ideal place to get away and relax. The sea all around Alanya is excellent for swimming. Alanya is a paradise of sun, sea and sand
ALANYA HISTORY
Based on skeletal evidence found between the villages of Bademagaci and Oba northeast of the city, Alanya is believed to have been inhabited in pre-historic times.Alanya was sometimes considered part of Cilicia and sometimes part of Pamphilia. It was later ruled by the Hittites and Romans respectively. In a bad state of repair after a number of invasions and wars, the city was rebuilt by the Romans. In the Byzantine era, Alanya was called Kolonoros, which means the "beautiful mountain" WHAT TO SEE
Uchisar
The splendid scene of the town of Uçhisar, seven kilometres from Nevşehir has an appeal that is irresistible. From the heights of the Uçhisar citadel, you have a magnificent and unrivalled view of the whole region.
Goreme
Göreme and its environs, located ten kilometres from Nevşehir, are thought to have been used as a necropolis during Roman times by the inhabitants of Venessa (Avanos). The Göreme region is often referred to as the "belief centre". The Göreme Open-Air Museum is where the "educational system that unified all the ideas of Christianity" of St. Basil the Great and his brothers, was born. In the Tokalı church, the Convent of Monks and Nuns, the Chapel of St. Basil, and the Elmalı, Yılanlı, Karanlık, and Çarıklı churches, the architectural details and frescoes seem as alive today as when they were when they were new.
Urgup
Ürgüp, near Göreme, is a famous city with wines, as its historical places and natural beauties. Whether your wine is served to you in a rustic earthenware pitcher or an elegant crystal goblet, it will be an experience that you'll never forget. Although some local winemakers have adopted modern techniques of wine-making, there are still many that remain faithful to the ancient and time-proven methods Cappadocia
Address: Eskişehir kapadokya / TURKEY

CAPPADOCIA

Cappadocia - ( Kapadokya, Cappadocia Place, turkey Kappadocia, Cappadocia information )

Cappadocia Information The region known as Cappadocia includes the centres of Ürgüp, Göreme, Avanos, Üçhisar, Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı and Ihlara. It is a stunning area of other-worldly rock formations, subterranean churches and underground dwellings, the scale of which is over-whelming. The area is also famous for its carpet-weaving, wines and the distinctive red pottery of the Avanos area. Cappadocia was a refuge for the early Christians, who escaped persecution by living and worshipping underground. There are an estimated 3000 rock churches in this region, not all of which are open to the public
The village of Göreme itself is at the heart of the area's tourist industry, and many of its villagers still live in cave dwellings, some of which have been converted into pensions. Surrounding the area are the amazing rock formations known evocatively as Peri Bacaları or 'Fairy Chimneys
Located to the west of Niğde, is the stunning Ihlara Valley, a gorge which is 10 km long and some 80 metres wide. Popular for trekking, about 12 of its 60 churches are open to the public including the impressive Eğritaş Church.
There are hundreds of underground cities in the regions. Two of the most impressive are Kaymaklı, which has 8 levels, and Derinkuyu, which reaches down to 55 metres. They were used by the Christians fleeing persecution in the 7th century, who created a self-sufficient environment underground including bedrooms, kitchens and storage rooms.
CAPPADOCIA HISTORY
The Hattis, followed by the Hittites, Phrygians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans were all enchanted by the allure of Cappadocia and left the imprint of their own presence here including important trade routes, such as the illustrious Silk Road which traversed east, west, north and south. As a result of this heavy traffic, the region was a complex web of historical and cultural influences. Cappadocia was the place where different faiths and philosophies met and influenced one another. Frescoed churches and dwellings carved into the cliffs extend from Ihlara Valley, which is 40 km from Aksaray, and as far as 14 km to the town of Selime. Some of these structures can be dated back to as early as the 4th century A.D. Among the many sights worth seeing are the Eğritaş, Ağaç Altı, Kokar, Yılanlı, Pürenli, Kırkdamaltı, Ala, Direkli, the Kale Manastırı churches, and the Selime Cathedral
Because of its location, Cappadocia was an extremely critical and strategic region. As Cappadocia's trade and resources were tempting prizes, the region was frequently invaded, raided, and looted. To protect themselves from such depredations, the local inhabitants took to living in the region's caverns and grottos whose entrances could be concealed, so as not to be noticed by trouble-making outsiders. Since it might have been necessary to lie low for extended periods of time, these troglodytic dwellings eventually became subterranean cities that included sources of water, places to store food, wineries, and temples. Some of them date back to before the Christian era WHAT TO SEE
Uchisar
The splendid scene of the town of Uçhisar, seven kilometres from Nevşehir has an appeal that is irresistible. From the heights of the Uçhisar citadel, you have a magnificent and unrivalled view of the whole region.
Goreme
Göreme and its environs, located ten kilometres from Nevşehir, are thought to have been used as a necropolis during Roman times by the inhabitants of Venessa (Avanos). The Göreme region is often referred to as the "belief centre". The Göreme Open-Air Museum is where the "educational system that unified all the ideas of Christianity" of St. Basil the Great and his brothers, was born. In the Tokalı church, the Convent of Monks and Nuns, the Chapel of St. Basil, and the Elmalı, Yılanlı, Karanlık, and Çarıklı churches, the architectural details and frescoes seem as alive today as when they were when they were new.
Urgup
Ürgüp, near Göreme, is a famous city with wines, as its historical places and natural beauties. Whether your wine is served to you in a rustic earthenware pitcher or an elegant crystal goblet, it will be an experience that you'll never forget. Although some local winemakers have adopted modern techniques of wine-making, there are still many that remain faithful to the ancient and time-proven methods Cappadocia
Address: Eskişehir kapadokya / TURKEY