Uchisar Castle is Cappadocia's highest point, a natural rock turned into a multi-story city. Inside — a labyrinth of rooms and tunnels. Outside — panorama of valleys and fairy chimneys.

History

The name means "three fortresses". People lived here since Hittite times (2nd millennium BC). Became a fortress in Byzantine era. Used until the 1950s.

The Climb

Entrance at rock base. Climb takes 15-20 minutes via stairs and tunnels. Summit — observation platform with 360-degree view: Goreme, Love and Pigeon valleys, Mount Erciyes. At sunrise — hot air balloons over valleys.

Inside

Dozens of rooms on different levels: living quarters, storage, churches, dovecotes. Many connected by tunnels.

Uchisar Town

At the base — hotels in cave dwellings, restaurants. Quieter alternative to Goreme. Sunset from terrace — classic Cappadocian experience.

Practical Information

Open 8:00-20:00 (summer) or until 17:00 (winter). 5 km from Goreme. Dolmus every 30 minutes. Steep stairs — comfortable shoes required.