Goreme
Travel Guide > Europe > Turkey > Goreme
Introduction
Goreme is the main hub of Cappadocia, a region in Turkey. Strange rock formations and underground cities make this an alluring stop for any visitor to Turkey.
Neighbourhoods
Sights and Activities
The Underground City of Kaymakli
The Underground City of Kaymakli has nine levels beneath the ground with its ingenious exhaust systems, food storage places and ventilation spots. These were made by the people as a means of defence. When the levels go beneath the ground, they narrow, which is how the people protected themselves from mass attack, since the narrowness made it extremely difficult for attackers to get in with large numbers. That said, it's not the nicest place to visit if you're claustrophobic! The multitude of different passages were meant to hoodwink the enemy. The place also has a well and numerous ventilation ducts, some of which are hidden to the naked eye while others can be seen. The kitchen and the storage chambers are also worth looking at.
Other Sights and Activities
- Fairy Chimney Rock Formations. Houses were carved out of these rock formations.
- Ballooning. A popular way to see Capadoccia is by balloon.
- The Historical Museum is definitely worth a visit. It has a lot of fairy mountains which have been used by the Christians, as well as quite a few frescoes, though some of these had been removed.
- The night scene is laid back with a few clubs but not a lot of people, though Pacha Bar is a decent place to visit. Most of the places usually close by 8 pm. In the evening, the best thing you can do is watch the sunset from the hills where one can also view the colourful background of the land below.
- The Pigeon Valley is an amazing place where one can see a lot of pigeons. The valley also has red coloured hills which at the time of sunset look extra-terrestrial. There is also a craftsmen workshop, where you can buy souvenirs. Please note you can also bargain here - start with a third of what they ask and you could get something for an excellent price.
- The Rose Valley and surroundings should be visited in the evening partly because of the unrelenting sun at noon time and also because the best views can be had in the evening, as the valley's red hills change colour at sunset.
- Avanos is a city where there are many locals. You can a lot of carpet weavers and workshops, as well as restaurants.
Events and Festivals
Weather
Getting Around
Goreme can be easily travelled on foot although for going to Avanos and other far areas one needs to take a taxi or better still rent a bike or car. However, many of the roads are poor and potholed, so be sure to drive slowly.
By Car
By Public Transport
By Foot
By Bike
Eat
Drink
Work
Learn
This is version 6. Last edited at 15:41 on Aug 8, 08 by Lavafalls (+541). 2 articles link to this page.
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