Goreme

Goreme: The Heart of Cappadocia
Nestled among Cappadocia’s famous “fairy chimney” rock formations, Goreme is one of Turkey’s most fascinating villages. The landscape was shaped by Mount Erciyes’ volcanic eruption 2,000 years ago, which covered a 20,000 km² area in soft tuff rock. Over time, wind and water erosion sculpted the iconic fairy chimneys, leaving behind the surreal scenery that defines Goreme today.

By 1985, Goreme National Park was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving its rock-hewn churches, monasteries, and ancient dwellings. The soft volcanic rock allowed early settlers to carve houses, religious sanctuaries, and even underground cities, making Göreme one of the most significant historical sites in Cappadocia.

Why Base Yourself in Goreme?
Goreme serves as an ideal base for exploring Cappadocia, offering:

Great accommodation options, including authentic cave hotels.
Convenient transport links to underground cities, valleys, and hiking trails.
Easy access to tours, including hot air balloon rides, day trips, and adventure excursions.

Top Attractions in Goreme
Goreme Open-Air Museum
Just 2 km from Goreme’s center, this UNESCO-listed site is home to some of the most important Byzantine rock-cut churches and monasteries in Cappadocia.

Famous Churches in the Open-Air Museum
Tokalı Kilise (Church of the Buckle): The largest church in Göreme, featuring 9th- and 11th-century frescoes depicting the life of Jesus and the Twelve Apostles.
Elmalı Kilise (Apple Church): A small but stunning cave church with Greek symbols, domes, and frescoes of saints, bishops, and the Last Supper.
Barbara Kilise (Church of St. Barbara): Built in memory of Saint Barbara, an Egyptian Christian martyr. The simple cross-dome church features worn frescoes of Christ, St. George, and locusts.
Yılanlı Kilise (Snake Church): Named after its frescoes of St. George and St. Theodore slaying a snake, with additional depictions of Emperor Constantine and Saint Helena holding the True Cross.
Karanlik Kilise (Dark Church): The best-preserved church in Cappadocia, known for its vivid frescoes of Christ, the Last Supper, and the Betrayal by Judas—preserved due to the lack of natural light.
Carikli Kilise (Sandal Church): Named after two footprints carved into the rock, which are believed to be a replica of those found in the Church of Ascension in Jerusalem.

Things to Do in Goreme
Hot Air Ballooning: Experience the iconic sunrise views over Cappadocia.
Hiking & Valleys: Walk through Love Valley, Pigeon Valley, and Rose Valley, each with fairy chimneys and hidden churches.
Underground Cities: Take a day trip to Kaymakli or Derinkuyu, two of the largest underground cities in Cappadocia.
Sunset Viewpoints: Head to Goreme Esentepe or Red Valley for unforgettable sunset views.

Plan Your Visit
For hotel deals, guided tours, and local experiences, Goreme offers plenty of options. Whether you want to explore ancient cave churches, fly in a hot air balloon, or hike through Cappadocia’s unique valleys, Goreme is the perfect place to start your adventure.