Exploring Cappadocia: A Journey Through Time with Friends

Cappadocia's Embrace

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Cappadocia, a day where history whispered from the rocks and the vibrant culture enveloped us like a warm embrace. It was a journey of discovery, not just of places, but of the spirit of this ancient land. From exploring the famed Göreme to the hidden corners of Ortahisar, every moment was a brushstroke painting a vivid picture of Cappadocia's soul.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Nazar Borek & Cafe in Göreme. The cafe was bustling with early risers, all eager to start their day of exploration. The aroma of freshly baked borek and strong Turkish coffee filled the air, a comforting invitation to indulge. I opted for a traditional gözleme, a savory pancake filled with spinach and cheese, while my friends chose a selection of boreks. The food was delicious, but the real treat was the view. From our table, we could see the sun rising over the fairy chimneys, casting a golden glow on the surreal landscape. It was a moment of pure magic, a perfect start to our day.


Experience authentic Turkish flavors at Nazar Borek & Cafe in Göreme – where every bite tells a story!

Sometimes, the most profound journeys are those that lead us back to ourselves, enriched by the stories of the places we've explored.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the Göreme Historical National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As we wandered through the park, I was struck by the sheer scale of the landscape. Towering rock formations rose on either side of us, their surfaces carved with ancient cave dwellings and churches. It felt like stepping into another world, a world where time stood still.


Explore the enchanting landscapes and rich history of Göreme Historical National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cappadocia, Turkey.

The cave churches were particularly fascinating. Each one was adorned with intricate frescoes, depicting scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints. Despite the passage of centuries, the colors were still vibrant, the details still sharp. It was a testament to the skill of the artists who created them, and a poignant reminder of the faith that inspired them.

I couldn't help but think of Nadia as we explored. She would have loved running through the caves, imagining the lives of the people who once lived there. I made a mental note to bring her back someday, to share this magical place with my daughter.

Leaving Göreme Historical National Park, we drove to Ortahisar, a small town dominated by a massive rock castle. Ortahisar Castle is not as crowded as some of the other attractions in Cappadocia, which suited us perfectly. As we climbed to the top, the views became increasingly breathtaking. From the summit, we could see the entire region spread out before us, a tapestry of valleys, vineyards, and fairy chimneys.


Explore Ortahisar Castle, a historical fortress in Cappadocia, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Turkey's rich heritage.

Lukas would have appreciated the strategic importance of Ortahisar Castle. I could almost hear him explaining the castle's defenses, pointing out the various vantage points and escape routes. I smiled at the thought, missing his presence and his insightful observations.

For lunch, we stopped at Family Cave Restaurant, enticed by the promise of organic Turkish cuisine in a unique setting. The restaurant was built into a cave, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. We ordered a selection of traditional dishes, including lentil soup, flatbreads, and kebabs. The food was simple but delicious, made with fresh, local ingredients. It was a welcome change from the more touristy restaurants we had visited in other parts of Cappadocia.


Experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a stunning cave setting at Family Cave Restaurant in Cappadocia.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a little bit of wine tasting. Cappadocia is known for its unique wines, made from grapes grown in the volcanic soil of the region. We visited Organic wine house, a charming wine bar located in one of the fairy chimney rock formations. We sampled a variety of local wines, learning about the different grape varieties and the winemaking process. The wines were surprisingly good, with a distinct earthy flavor that reflected the terroir of Cappadocia.


Experience the rich flavors of local organic wines in the heart of Göreme, surrounded by breathtaking Cappadocian landscapes.

As the sun began to set, we found ourselves at a local bar, Organic wine house. The atmosphere was lively, with locals and tourists mingling and chatting. We ordered a bottle of local wine and sat on the terrace, watching the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors. It was the perfect end to a perfect day, a moment of quiet contentment in the heart of Cappadocia.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that Cappadocia is more than just a collection of stunning landscapes and ancient monuments. It's a place with a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a warm, welcoming people. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left, a place that calls you back to explore its hidden corners and uncover its secrets.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Derinkuyu Underground City and St. Jean Church. I am particularly excited about Derinkuyu, as I have always been fascinated by underground cities. It promises to be another day of adventure and discovery, another chapter in our Cappadocian journey. I am also looking forward to having breakfast at Lil'a Restaurant by Museum Hotel, and dinner at Haruna Cappadocia. And I am sure we will find some time to visit Cappadocia Antique Culturel Collection to hunt for souvenirs. I am sure my friends will appreciate it.

As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place with my friends. Sharing these moments with them makes the journey even more special. I'm also reminded of my family back in Bielefeld. I know they would love Cappadocia, and I can't wait to share my stories and photos with them. Perhaps one day, we can all come back together and explore this magical land.

I couldn't help but think of my work as a cultural mediator in Germany. Cappadocia, with its blend of history and culture, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding and appreciating different perspectives. It reinforces my commitment to bridging cultural gaps and fostering empathy and understanding in our increasingly interconnected world. I feel grateful for the work I do, and for the opportunity to contribute to a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Cappadocia has a way of seeping into your soul, leaving an indelible mark on your heart. It's a place that reminds you of the beauty of the world, the richness of human history, and the importance of connection. It's a place that I will cherish forever. I am truly looking forward to tomorrow's adventure!