Cappadocia was then one of the most primitive and enchanted regions of Turkey. Things have changed but Cappadocia is still an area with unique geologic formations, lunar landscape and churches containing ancient frescoes. Cappadocia stretched from Ankara to Andana in the South at one time, and nobody knows who the original inhabitants of this region were. But they do know that this barren land was a perfect spot for early Christians who would be safe from persecution. This Christian society built underground cities, carved churches out of solid rock and homes hollowed inside stone cones called “Fairy Chimneys.” Call them “Fairy Chimneys” if you must but come on now, whether drooping or erect, they look like an important part of male anatomy…View image.

The group took a midday flight to Ankara and drove to Avanos, our base in Cappadocia for the next few days. Avanos is situated on the banks of the Kizilirmak River (Red River) that is not only Turkey’s longest river but its red clay makes excellent building blocks, roof tiles and traditional household pottery. It is a rare tourist or group that isn’t invited to a pottery demonstration and we were no exception. I think the Hotel Duru…View image…(where we stayed) was involved with Chez Galip – La Caverne du Potier – one of the best known potters in Avanos. The pieces are displayed throughout seven cave rooms and we all bought a little piece whether needed or not.

signs pointing to Avanos along the road in Turkey 

the group tour bus in Cappadocia, Turkey
The streets of Avanos are chock-a-block with small cafes, workshops and pottery sitting all over the streets for sale. Vases, pots, coffee mugs. Lots and lots of “stuff”…. and if you don’t want pottery, they’ll try to sell you onyx…View image.

Avanos pottery for sale in the square, Cappadocia, Turkey 

whether sitting or walking, you’ll be surrounded by Avanos pottery, Turkey 

views of Avanos, Cappadocia
Settled in the Hotel Duru and prepared for an afternoon excursion to the famous Goreme Open Air Museum and Urgup.