People who want to organize a trip to Nevsehir Ortahisar are curious about the places they can visit within Ortahisar. There are regions within Ortahisar that are a must-visit, boasting historical and aesthetic beauty that has attracted both local and foreign tourists for years.
Especially, Cappadocia is known as the land of beautiful horses. It attracts visitors throughout the year, becoming one of the most important tourist destinations in the country. It offers breathtaking landscapes, unique wines, and services with giant balloons for those who want to get away from city life. Visitors in Cappadocia can watch the sunrise with hot air balloons, try various outdoor activities, and witness stunning views of the sunset. A trip to Nevsehir Ortahisar also allows exploration of historically significant areas, providing a glimpse into ancient times. Ortahisar is a crucial part of Cappadocia with its own historical traces.
Ortahisar region is one of the richest areas in terms of places to visit among these regions. Here, you can find many special places that characterize the region, such as the Cappadocia Ethnography museums, Ortahisar Castle, and Hallaç monastery. The region holds traces of various civilizations, including the Hittites, Phrygians, Lycians, Persians, Romans, and Byzantines. Each civilization has left its unique imprint, showcasing distinct ways of life throughout history.
Ortahisar region is one of the most popular places in the area and was among the first regions to open up to tourism. This region, known as Turkey’s cold storage, is situated within the tuff rocks. Since the 1950s, it has made significant contributions to the local economy. The current number of these storage facilities is known to be over 700. Initially thought to be used as shelters, these rocks started to be utilized as cold storage. Lemons, oranges, and locally grown apples and potatoes are preserved here and distributed nationwide. It is one of the must-visit places in Nevsehir Ortahisar. Places to Visit in Ortahisar
It is a region that has managed to enchant its visitors with its charming architecture and rich history. Ortahisar is the first place among the places to visit. Within the region, the first thing to capture the attention of visitors is the charming houses. Among these houses stands Ortahisar Castle, towering approximately 90 meters high, as the prominent landmark. With all its grandeur, it offers a visual feast to those who come.
Restaurants and hotels are located at the foot of the castle. The dining places in Ortahisar, Nevsehir, are found here. Local flavors can be easily tasted in these restaurants. Although it is estimated that the castle was built during the Byzantine period, there is no precise information about its exact historical date. It is a castle situated between Ürgüp and Göreme.
This castle was built for shelter and protection purposes. Inside the castle, there are numerous interconnected tunnels and rooms. Despite seeming a bit challenging, it is possible to reach the top of the castle after the climb. A magnificent view awaits visitors at the summit. Buses departing from the Ürgüp and Göreme regions provide access to this castle.
The Diarrhea castle, located among the places to visit in Nevşehir Ortahisar, is another significant structure. It is one of the places that must be visited. Tunnels connect the Diarrhea and Ortahisar castles, and these tunnels were particularly used for passages during times of war. It is situated directly across from Ortahisar castle.
The Nevşehir Ortahisar travel guide features a museum that is a must-visit. It is located in Cumhuriyet Square. Built in 1916, it served as a 12-room hotel for a considerable period. Currently, it is used as an ethnography museum. Inside, realistic scenes depicting Turkish bath, henna night, ox-drawn cart, mobile barber, and scenes of molasses and bread making can be found. The recreations are spread throughout the rooms, awaiting visitors.
The Hallaç monastery, believed to have been built in the 13th century, attracts considerable attention from visitors. It is located approximately 1 km away from the city center. Despite being partially collapsed, this structure has never lost its appeal. It is also known as the Hospital monastery. Situated near the Hallaç Stream, it is a unique example as both a monastery and a church, with no other like it. The monastery can be connected to its surroundings through tunnels.
Located at the entrance of the unique Kızılçukur valley, which captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery, Üzümlü church is situated in the western part of the region. It is precisely 3.5 km away from the city center. The church, dating back to the 19th century, bears paintings made with spray paints on its walls, causing damage to the structure. Efforts are being made to preserve the paintings and plastic decorations inside the church. The crown door of the church features arch clusters and grape motifs. With its distinct architectural structure and frescoes that impress onlookers, Üzümlü church is a must-visit place in Nevşehir Ortahisar.
One of the most important churches in the region is Pancarlık church, situated in Pancarlık valley, approximately 4 km away from the city center. This place has gained significant importance in Cappadocia due to its unique and distinctive landscape. With its aesthetically pleasing and different rock formations in various colors, it stands out with a captivating view. It is a historically significant church among the places to visit in Ortahisar.
Within this valley, you can also find Kepez and Sarıca churches, each with special wall decorations. The dovecotes, observation towers, monasteries, and chapels within the valley are worth exploring. Impressive and unique architectural formations abound in this area. A travel recommendation for Nevşehir Ortahisar includes Pancarlık Valley and the churches within it as must-visit sites.
The church is located on a slope above the streambed and takes its name from the neighborhood where it is situated. It is also known as Sarıca church. Carved into a large rock formation at the tip of a cone, it is approximately 4 km away from the city center. In 2002, it was honored with the Grand Prize for Cultural Heritage. Constructed in Byzantine architecture, the church dates back to the 9th century and features closed Greek cross and trefoil clover figures.
To witness the lifestyle of the Cappadocia region, one of the must-visit areas is Ortahisar. Located near Ürgüp, Avanos, and Göreme, Ortahisar trips should ideally include these neighboring regions. Exploring Ortahisar and its surroundings typically requires 2-3 days to fully appreciate the unique experience. You can find detailed information about the places to visit in Cappadocia.
Nevsehir Ortahisar is easily accessible through various buses and minibusses departing from the city center. Traveling is quite affordable with these modes of transportation. Individuals also have the option to explore the area using their private vehicles. Those arriving by private car can reach Ortahisar by covering a 5 km distance on the Nevsehir-Ürgüp highway. Göreme, Ürgüp, and Ortahisar are closely located regions, making it convenient to visit each area while in the vicinity. Transportation to the Ortahisar region is also readily available through buses departing from the city center.
Where is Ortahisar Places to Visit Map
- 1- Ortahisar Castle
- 2- Ortahisar Culture Museum / Culture Museum
- 3- Pancarlik valley
- 4- Pancarlık church
- 5- İshak Kalesi Yolu
- 6- Hallach monastery
Ortahisar is one of the areas that will make you feel like you’re living in a different era. It harbors unique beauties in every corner, known not only for its historical structures but also for its natural beauty. Allocating a day of your Cappadocia trip to explore Ortahisar will be sufficient.
Ortahisar Places to Visit Photos
