Goreme Ancient History Background
by Kuznetsov_Sergey
The first period of settlement within the region of Goreme reaches to Roman period of Christianity era. Goreme was called Maccan in antiquity and is one of the oldest sites in the Cappadocia region. The oldest known source where the name of this city is mentioned, is the book titled "The Doing of St. Hieron" of the 7th century.
In the 4th century small anchorite communities began to form in the region, acting on instruction of Saint Basil of Caesarea. They carved cells in the soft rock. During the iconoclastic period (725-842) the decoration of the many sanctuaries in the region was held to a minimum, usually symbols such the depiction of the cross. After this period, new churches were dug into the rocks and they were richly decorated with colorful frescoes.
These Christian sanctuaries contain many examples of Byzantine art from the post-iconoclastic period. These frescoes are a unique artistic achievement from this period.
Learn more here.
You may watch my high resolution photo of Goreme Open Air Museum on the Google Earth according to the following coordinates 38° 38' 21.16" N 34° 50' 44.32" E or on my Google Earth Panoramio Goreme Valley .
Getting started
by MalenaN
It was a great feeling to stand in a field in Cappadocia early in the morning, watching the two balloons getting bigger and bigger as the hot air was blown into them. I have never been so close to any hot-air balloon before and was struck by how huge they really are.
It was going to be my first balloon ride and I was very excited about it.
Hiking near Göreme
by seratonin
Probably the est way to explore the beautiful and bizarre landscape around Göreme is hiking.
The best time is spring or automn, as the temparatures are comfortable.
To be as independent as possible I would advise to hike there with a tent or if weather is stable enough only a sleeping bag can be enough.
Folk Museum in Ortahisar
by murta
This a private museum with very realistic displays of typical scenes of traditional daily life in Cappadocia. If you are interested in ethnology, you will love this museum. It is a must see for everybody visiting Ortahisar. Its front entrance is through a nicely decorated restaurant owned by the same people. So don't get confused. It is at the same square as the tower of Ortahisar. Check the website for more details.
Hot Air Ballooning
by MalenaN
Cappadocia is a perfect place for ballooning. The winds are good and the landscape beautiful. Have you never flewn in a balloon, take the chance!
When I was going, one man said ha was probably not going to fly because he was affraid of heights. The pilot said there was not going to be any problems as the balloon is not conected to the ground. He advised the man not to look down just when we took off. Everything went well.
Ihlara Gorge
Love Valley
Cappcdocia from the air
Driving through the chimney-scape!!
