HISTORY OF CAPPADOCIA
Cappadocia is a region name that has been used for 5 cities in modern day Turkey: Nevsehir, Aksaray, Kirsehir, Kayseri, and Nigde. It covers an area of almost 450 square kilometers and contains a number of fascinating sights despite the fact that most of the fantastic valleys and caverns have been created in Nevsehir and Aksaray.
The area was contested by numerous ethnic groups such as the Assyrians, Hittites, Persians, Romans, Seljuks, and Ottomans throughout history. The Hittites are credited with being the first rock sculptors in Cappadocia; instead of constructing buildings out of stone, they carved dwellings and other structures into the rocks.
The name of the region is derived from a Persian term for "horse." They tamed the wild horses in the area and utilized them in transportation while they were in power. After a long time, other societies began to refer to the region as Katpatuka, which means "land of beautiful horses."
The Christian population of Cappadocia began to grow during the Roman period, when the region was under their rule. The Romans disliked the prospect of a new faith being established on their territory, and they began persecuting citizens in Cappadocia as a result. The Christians of Cappadocia constructed some secret chapels in the deepest valleys or built subterranean cities to defend themselves from Roman troops.
Today, these subterranean cities are one of the most popular attractions in the area, and they have been added to UNESCO's World Heritage list in 1985. In the 4th century, Christians were legalized in Roman Empire, and individuals began constructing visible churches in Cappadocia and establishing three distinct Christian centers: Goreme, Soganli, and Ihlara.
The most number of churches in Cappadocia are found in these three locations, each with a distinct appeal to the visitors. Seljuks (Middle-Asian Turks), who were Muslims, dominated the region during the 11th century and began to cohabit peacefully with the Christian population.
The region was ruled by Ottomans from the 14th to the early 20th centuries , and they controlled it until 1923, when the Turkish Republic was established. Greek and Turkish leaders negotiated a settlement after the population exchange, with Muslims making up 99% of Cappadocia's inhabitants.
Turkey has a lot to offer the people who come for: spectacular natural vistas, distinctive historical and archaeological sites, continuously improving hotels, a history of welcome and affordable prices. Turkey has long been a meeting point of religions, not just Islam and Christianity but also others that are no longer remembered by history.
We are confident that each journey is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and it should provide you with access to all of the attractions or activities that you want to see. That's why, rather than specializing in offering one-size-fits-all packages for people, we specialize in customizing trips according on your preferences, tastes, and temperament. With our travel consultants, you can easily customize your Istanbul & Cappadocia Tours as well as numerous other excursions.
Let us help you plan a memorable vacation! Send us your arrival and departure dates , and we'll create a draft itinerary for you within 24 hours after receiving these details to talk about and discuss until you're satisfied with the finest itinerary.
The heart of Cappadocia, Goreme, is home to our travel agency. Our personnel have given us the chance to be very knowledgeable with our clients' demands and special wishes. In addition to providing customized and planned excursions in Cappadocia, we are now providing services in all parts of Turkey.
