12

Best Places for Hot Air Balloon Rides in Europe

Located in the Anatolian part of Turkey, the Cappadocia region is famous for its showcase of the ancient civilizations from thousands of years ago that are seen in carved houses and churches within the earth pillars. These cave dwellings are constructed on the foot of the mountains by cutting through rocks and stones. These cave houses are fundamentally old houses that were carved by people who lived here ages ago and which served as living and work spaces as well as religious buildings such as monasteries and churches. It is said that about 30 million years ago there were three volcanic eruptions from the Erciyes, Hasan, and Melendiz Daðlari and the volcanic tufa that was accumulated led people from ancient times to build dwellings into them. These were very soft materials and thus building into them was easy. Moreover, they made for comfortable housing which was warm in winter, and cool in summer, and also served as a good hideout in wartimes. Today you can find several of these dwellings with murals from the Hittite Empire and the Neo-Hittite period. You can also witness some high standards of building techniques with several military tunnels as well as artistic features such as religious paintings on the walls.

The famous Pigeon Valley in Cappadocia is best known for its hiking trail that can start in either Uchisar Town or Goreme Town. The trail takes you through thick forests of trees, and several caves, and as you descend into the valley also gives you great views of the town and the Uchisar Castle. You can also spot a number of brilliant paintings on the walls of the caves that you pass that were created by the people who lived here during the Byzantine period. As is evident from its name, the Pigeon valley used to have a large number of pigeon holes built into the walls for the domestication of pigeons. They were not only used by the dwellers here for their meat and manure, but also for message delivery, and sacrifices. The trail is extremely picturesque with its ever changing landscape and cliffs and sudden stretches of dense greenery alongside others with bare treeless sections. Throughout the trail, you will be greeted with scattered cave dwellings as well as chimneys and earth pillars. At one end of the valley, you will find some cafes where you can relax and enjoy a refreshing bite before heading on.

Discover the enchanting wonder of Goreme Valley, a mesmerizing destination in Cappadocia, Turkey. Delve into a surreal landscape adorned with fairy chimneys, ancient cave dwellings, and spectacular rock formations shaped by nature's artistic hand. Unearth the rich history and cultural heritage as you explore the rock-cut churches adorned with magnificent frescoes, offering a glimpse into the past.Goreme Valley's unique beauty and geological formations make it a must-visit location for travelers seeking an otherworldly experience. From exhilarating hot air balloon rides to exploring the underground cities and hiking through the valleys, Goreme offers a myriad of adventures. Whether you're an avid nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a one-of-a-kind escape, Goreme Valley promises an unforgettable journey through Turkey's captivating landscapes and the allure of its historical treasures.