Turkey Trip - Part 2

 Turkey Trip - Part 2: Cappadocia

Cappadocia, Turkey, is world-famous for its surreal "fairy chimney" rock formations, sprawling underground cities, and breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon rides. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique volcanic landscape and historic cave dwellings carved by ancient civilizations and early Christians. 

Here is what makes Cappadocia famous:

• Fairy Chimneys (Hoodoo Landforms): 

  Thousands of cone-shaped, volcanic rock pillars formed by erosion, which dominate the Göreme Valley. 
• 

  
  

  

  
  

  

  
  

  

  
  
• Hot Air Balloon Tours: 

  Known as one of the best places in the world to fly, hundreds of balloons rise at sunrise to offer views of the valleys. 

Reflection: God’s creation is so amazing! I was blessed to take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia, Turkey. The incredible formations are from the lava flows of nearby volcanoes. There are three in the region. This was my first hot air balloon ride and I loved it! . I normally don’t like heights, but this was so smooth that it did not bother me.

• Underground Cities: 

  Ancient multi-story underground cities, such as Derinkuyu, were carved into the soft stone, serving as hiding places for early Christians fleeing persecution. 
• 
  
  
• Cave Dwellings & Hotels: 

  The region is famous for its "cave houses" carved into volcanic tuff, many of which are now boutique hotels. 

  
• 
  
• History & Monasteries: 

  Extensive cave monasteries, churches, and chapels featuring Byzantine frescoes are found in the Göreme Open Air Museum.