This was our first day in Cappadocia.  We took the overnight bus from Pumakkule, via Denizli to Nevsehir, and through to Göreme.  We got in in the morning, went to the hotel, had some breakfast, and off to the races!

If you ever have a chance to go to Turkey, you MUST go to Cappadocia.  And Göreme is at the heart of Cappadocia.  It’s full of cave hostels, a wonderful square, and surrounded by the famous fairy chimneys.

Thousands (millions?) of years ago, the weather started carving away at the landscape of Cappadocia, resulting in many formations called Fairy Chimneys, as well as stunning valleys and caves.  A few thousand years ago, people started carving themselves homes, churches, kitchens, palaces, and even graveyards in the rock here.  The Hittites created entire underground cities to hide out in during times of war.

You’ll see that the landscape as well as the arts of the region are really spectacular.

Half way through the day, the tour guide (who was mostly useless- sometimes even telling stories that contradicted the signs upon entering a site) took us to a pottery studio.  Mags had a fun time with the demo, as you’ll see.

Something to be aware of here- both of the tours we went on in Cappadocia REQUIRE that you go to their little “demonstrations” of various stuff.  Actually, even on our way to Pumakkale, the tour forced us to stop at a stupid silver shop.  Maybe a higher end tour wouldn’t have these lame-o detours, or at least make it optional.  Also, the included lunches are generally passable at best.  Next time- no organized tours at all for us!!

We definitely want to come back to this area, and enjoy the amazing hiking that it has to offer.

In the evening, we had an absolutely amazing dinner at Dibek.  They made us a couple of pottery kabobs.  Doesn’t sound that interesting, but it really is!  They make a rough clay pot, fill it with Lamb and all sorts of goodies, close off the top with some paper and clay, and stick it in the oven for 3 hours (you have to call ahead for the meal).  When it’s time to eat, they break it open with a hammer and chisel, and spoon it out for you.  Along with some homemade wine (made by our waiter’s father) it made for an unforgettable dinner.