Cappadocia the land of balloons and fairy chimneys

The landscape of Cappadocia is breathtaking. The rocks are mostly made of tuff, a result of magmatic processes. The fairy chimneys have a cap made of harder stone, thus protecting the cones and preventing rapid erosion.

In 2000 BC, the Assyrians utilized the porosity of the rock to inhabit caves.

The Hittites replaced the Assyrians in 1300 BC and expanded the economic center of Kültepe.

Starting in the 3rd century, the region rose to become one of the important centers of early Christianity. Numerous rock-hewn churches with the most creative names and their very imaginative frescoes bear witness to this.

In contrast to Catholic painting, there is a certain artistic freedom among the Orthodox. Churches are usually cross churches featuring a barrel vault.

The Arabs took over in the 7th century, marking the time of the Seljuks. Islam established itself as the main religion. The construction of roads and caravanserais characterized trade relations during this period. Here travelers could tend to their animals, rest themselves, and have protection from marauders and wild animals.

The first balloons launched in Cappadocia in 1991 with a competition of professional hot air balloonists. Today there are countless providers and flight schools.

The beauty of a hot air balloon ride is the tranquility; you barely feel the movement as you silently drift over the tuff cones, olive groves, and poplar trees up to the cemetery.

Due to the good water permeability of tuff, the weekly markets are very well attended when it comes to vegetables and high quality.

What should not be overlooked is the religious community of the Alevis. Hadji Bektash, the founder of the order, born in 1211 in Iran, went to Anatolia and took on three main tasks.

Women are socially equal. Men and women participate together in the Cem ritual, the Semah dance.

He shaped the idea of training a bodyguard for the Ottoman Sultan, the Janissary, and

he influenced the Turkish language and its script.

Today, due to the Syrian conflict, the Alevis find themselves in the tension of Turkish politics.

In almost every village square, you can see the typical Anatolian shepherd dog, the Kangal. An imposing, self-assured, calm yet sharp observer.

My conclusion: Cappadocia offers a unique perspective on Turkish history and culture, features fascinating rock formations, making it a paradise for photographers and also caters to hiking enthusiasts.

Thank you for stopping by and Serefe:-))