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The province of Nevsehir is one of the major cities of Cappadocia Region and displays a beautiful combination of nature and history. The geographic movements had formed the fairy chimneys and during the historical development process, mankind had settled and inhabited these natural wonders, fairy chimneys and carved houses and churches inside these formations and adorned these settlements with frescos, carrying the traces of the thousands of years of their civilizations.

Goreme
The national park consists of valleys with the world-famous rock formations of Cappadocia, the conical shaped rocks shaped over centuries out of eroded volcanic stone, and known as Fairy Chimneys.

In addition to the fascinating landscape formed by the volcanic tuff and cave dwellings, there are also important Byzantine churches, which reflect the history of religious art in that period. Because of the geological characteristics of the area, and the fact that it was secluded, people living here could hide themselves away from the various battles taking place, as well as from the authority of the central administration.

Monastery life in the area began in the 3rd and 4th centuries, and grew quickly. There are the remains of monuments, churches, chapels, dining halls, monk cell alcoves, depots, and wine production places all decorated with frescos. The nearby villages of Urgup, Avcilar, Uchisar, Cavusini and Yeni Zalve still reflect traditional life and agricultural practices of Goreme’s past. That, and the unique morphological structure of Goreme, is the main attraction to the area.

Mustafapasa

It is located 6 km south of Urgup district. The Gomede Valley which is located at the west of Mustafapasa is a miniature similitude of the Ihlara Valley from the geomorphologic aspect. The valley hosts the rock carved churches, shelters and a creek flowing through the valley as is at the Ihlara valley.

Ihlara Valley

The valley is located at 40 km. distance to the Aksaray district of Nevsehir. Reaching to the valley is possible via the road separation which is at the 11th km. of the Aksaray - Nevsehir highway. The valley was formed from the appearance of cracks and collapses formed from the cooling of the molten lava coming from the Hasandagi Mountain and this lava had intensely contain basalt and andesite contents. The valley had attained the today's formation by the assistance of the Melendiz Creek which flows through these cracks and this creek was named as 'Potamus Kapadukus' during the first ages of historic period which means "the river of Cappadoccia". The valley with 14 km. length begins from Ihlara borough and ends at Selime borough. The depth of the valley occasionally extends to 100 -150 meters. There are numerous shelters, burial grounds and churches carved into the rocky surface of the valley. Some of these shelters and churches are connected to each other with tunnels as is encountered at the underground cities.

Kayseri

Kayseri has been one of the most important trade centres of Anatolia over history. Located right in the centre of the country, it has the feel of a modern, busy city but also has a strong traditional and religious atmosphere. The setting is spectacular, with the mountains of Erciyes Dagi and Kara Dagi in the background, a snow-capped volcano and green fields, and the nearby Sultansazligi bird sanctuary. The city is also well known for its textile and carpet industry, and has impressive monuments that reflect its history. Kayseri has always been a popular option as a base to explore Cappadocia.

Cappadocia Map