Facts and Data
Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Turkey on the World Heritage List
Göreme
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
Protectedplanet.net
Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1985
Size of heritage: 9,884 ha
Coordinates:
Longitude: 34,850°
Latitude: 38,667°
Summary
In a spectacular landscape, entirely sculpted by erosion, the Göreme valley and its surroundings contain rock-hewn sanctuaries that provide unique evidence of Byzantine art in the post-Iconoclastic period. Dwellings, troglodyte villages and underground towns – the remains of a traditional human habitat dating back to the 4th century – can also be seen there.
Location on Map
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Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia
Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia, located in the Nevşehir Province of Central Anatolia, Turkey, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unique geological formations and rich cultural heritage. Spanning an area of approximately 9,700 hectares, this site is a testament to the remarkable human adaptation to the natural environment over centuries.
History
The history of this region dates back to the 4th century when the area was inhabited by early Christians fleeing persecution. Seeking refuge, they carved out dwellings, churches, and monasteries within the soft volcanic rock formations known as tuff. These rock-cut structures, known as fairy chimneys, are a defining feature of the landscape.
During the Byzantine period, Cappadocia became an important religious and cultural center. The region's unique topography allowed for the creation of an extensive network of underground cities, providing shelter and protection during times of invasion. These underground cities, such as Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı, are architectural marvels, with multiple levels, ventilation shafts, and intricate tunnel systems.
In the 13th century, the region fell under the rule of the Seljuk Turks, who further developed the rock-cut architecture. They constructed numerous rock-carved mosques, tombs, and medrese (theological schools), blending Islamic and Byzantine architectural styles.
Current State
Today, Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia continue to captivate visitors with their exceptional natural and cultural heritage. The unique rock formations, shaped by centuries of erosion, create a surreal and otherworldly landscape. The fairy chimneys, some reaching up to 40 meters in height, stand as silent witnesses to the region's geological history.
The rock-cut churches and monasteries, adorned with intricate frescoes, offer a glimpse into the religious and artistic practices of the Byzantine era. These frescoes depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship and artistic talent of the time.
The underground cities, with their labyrinthine tunnels and chambers, provide a fascinating insight into the daily lives of the people who sought refuge in these subterranean complexes. Visitors can explore the well-preserved spaces, including living quarters, kitchens, wineries, and even stables.
To preserve and protect this exceptional heritage, conservation efforts have been undertaken by the Turkish government and local authorities. Strict regulations are in place to ensure the sustainable management of the site, including restrictions on construction and tourism activities.
Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia continue to attract tourists from around the world, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. The site stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of past civilizations and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our shared human heritage.
Hotels and places to stay
Phocas Cave Suites
The Village Cave Hotel
Ciner Hotel
Ufuk Hotel Pension
Gerdis Evi
Gültekin Motel
Arif cave the best view...
Fairyland Cave Hotel
El Nazar Cave Suites
Royal Stone Houses - Goreme
Videos from the area
Cappadocia: Live from the Fairy Chimneys of Monks' Valley
http://www.travelsignposts.com/Turkey/sightseeing/cappadocia-monks-valley: Helen Page is looking over Monks' Valley in Pasabag, Cappadocia, envying St. Simeon for living amongst the "Fairy...
Göreme and hot air ballooning with Butterfly Balloons
Images and videos of Göreme, along with a morning flight with Butterfly Balloons.
Hot Air Balloon Over Cappadocia, Turkey
Hot Air Balloon Trip Over the Cappadocia Region, Goreme, Turkey. Video from traveladdicts.net.
Ballooning in Cappadocia
Video on a hot air balloon trip in Cappadocia (Turkey) in the summer of 2010 with Kapadokya Balloons in Göreme.
Hot Air Ballooning experience in Cappadocia - Full HD flight 1080p
There is "magic in the air" in Cappadocia, and what better way to see all that our beautiful region has to offer than an early morning balloon flight as the sun rises over Central Anatolia....
Videos provided by Youtube are under the copyright of their owners. 
Nevşehir Kapadokya International AirportLarge airport - 18 mi (30 km)
Kayseri Erkilet AirportMedium airport - 36 mi (58 km)
Adana AirportLarge airport - 119 mi (192 km)
Sivas AirportMedium airport - 135 mi (219 km)
Kahramanmaraş AirportMedium airport - 138 mi (223 km)
Tokat AirportMedium airport - 139 mi (225 km)
Esenboğa International AirportLarge airport - 141 mi (228 km)
Amasya Merzifon AirportMedium airport - 154 mi (248 km)
Gaziantep International AirportLarge airport - 186 mi (300 km)
Aleppo International AirportLarge airport - 216 mi (347 km)
Bigger and popular cities in the wider vicinity are these:
- Acigoel
- Avanos
- Bogazliyan
- Ciftlik
- Derinkuyu
- Develi
- Erkilet
- Gulagac
- Gulsehir
- Guzelyurt
- Hacibektas
- Hacilar
- Himmetdede
- Incesu
- Karahasanli
- Kayseri
- Kocasinan
- Kozakli
- Melikgazi
- Misli
- Mucur
- Nevsehir
- Nigde
- Ozonak
- Salanda
- Talas
- Topakli
- UErguep
- Yenifakili
- Yesilhisar
These are some smaller cities that might be interesting. They are all rather close.