About Cappadocia
A Land Like No Other
Volcanic ash, wind and water shaped this landscape over millions of years — and people have made it home for almost as long.
Millions of Years in the Making
Cappadocia's “fairy chimney” rock formations were formed when ancient volcanic eruptions blanketed the region in soft ash, which later hardened into tuff. Wind and rain eroded the stone unevenly, leaving the tall, capped columns the region is famous for today.
For over a thousand years, communities carved homes, churches and entire underground cities directly into this soft rock — many of which are still standing, and still lived in, today.
Places to Visit
Highlights of the Region
Göreme
The heart of Cappadocia, ringed by rock-cut churches and cave dwellings.
Uçhisar
Home to Cappadocia's highest point, a natural rock castle with panoramic valley views.
Zelve Open-air Museum
A former cave village and monastic settlement, inhabited until the mid-20th century.
Avanos
A riverside town famous for pottery, using the same red clay for over 4,000 years.
Paşabağ
Also called Monks Valley, known for its multi-headed fairy chimney rock formations.
Kaymaklı Underground City
An eight-level subterranean city carved to shelter thousands in times of conflict.