Have you ever dreamed of visiting a fairy-tale castle carved out of a giant rock? If so, you will love Uchisar Castle, the highest and most impressive point in Cappadocia. Uchisar Castle is not only a stunning sight, but also a fascinating place to learn about the history, culture, and geology of this magical region. In this article, we will show you everything you need to know about Uchisar Castle, including how to get there, when to go, what to see and do, and where to stay. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a thrill-seeker, Uchisar Castle will enchant you with its beauty and charm.
History of Uchisar Castle
Uchisar Castle is not a typical castle, but rather a natural formation of volcanic tufa rock that has been shaped by erosion and human intervention over thousands of years. The rock is hollowed out by hundreds of tunnels, chambers, windows, and terraces, creating a labyrinth of caves and passages. The name Uchisar means "three fortresses" in Turkish, referring to the three peaks of the rock.
Uchisar Castle has a rich and diverse history, dating back to the ancient Hittites, who ruled the region in the 2nd millennium BC. The castle was later used by the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, Mongols, and Ottomans, who all left their marks on its architecture and design. Uchisar Castle served as a strategic defense, communication, and trade center, as well as a refuge for the local people during times of war and invasion. The castle was also connected to the underground cities of Cappadocia, such as Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, through secret tunnels and shafts.
Uchisar Castle was inhabited until the 1950s, when the Turkish government declared it a historical monument and relocated the residents to nearby villages. Since then, the castle has been restored and opened to the public, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
How to Get to Uchisar Castle
Uchisar Castle is located in the village of Uchisar, about 5 km from the town of Goreme, the main tourist hub of Cappadocia. There are several ways to get to Uchisar Castle, depending on your budget, preferences, and itinerary. Here are some of the most popular options:
- By bus: You can take a public bus from Goreme to Uchisar, which runs every 30 minutes and costs 4 TL per person. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes and drops you off at the main square of Uchisar, from where you can walk to the castle in 10 minutes.
- By car: You can rent a car in Goreme or Nevsehir and drive to Uchisar, which gives you more flexibility and convenience. The drive takes about 10 minutes and there is a parking lot near the castle entrance. The car rental fee varies depending on the type and duration of the rental, but you can expect to pay around 150 TL per day.
- By hiking: You can hike from Goreme to Uchisar, which is a great way to enjoy the scenic views and landscapes of Cappadocia. The hike takes about 2 hours and follows a well-marked trail that passes through the White Valley, Love Valley, and Pigeon Valley. The hike is moderately easy and suitable for most fitness levels, but you should wear comfortable shoes, bring water and snacks, and avoid the hottest hours of the day.
- By guided tour: You can join a guided tour that includes Uchisar Castle as one of the stops, which is a good option if you want to learn more about the history and culture of the castle and Cappadocia. There are many tours available, ranging from half-day to full-day, and covering different attractions and activities. Some of the most popular tours are the Red Tour, the Green Tour, and the Hot Air Balloon Ride. The tour prices vary depending on the duration, itinerary, and inclusions, but you can expect to pay around 200 TL per person.
Uchisar Castle Opening Hours and Entrance Fee
Uchisar Castle is open every day from 8 am to 7 pm, except on Mondays, when it is closed for maintenance. The entrance fee is 10 TL per person, which you can pay at the ticket booth near the castle gate. You will receive a ticket that you need to keep until you exit the castle. You can also buy a museum pass that gives you access to Uchisar Castle and other museums and attractions in Cappadocia, such as the Goreme Open Air Museum, the Zelve Open Air Museum, and the Kaymakli Underground City. The museum pass costs 210 TL per person and is valid for 72 hours.
Once you enter the castle, you can explore it at your own pace and follow the signs and arrows that guide you through the different levels and sections. There are no guides or audio guides available inside the castle, but you can find some information boards and plaques that explain the history and features of the castle. You can also download a mobile app that provides more details and stories about Uchisar Castle and Cappadocia.
What to See and Do in Uchisar Castle
Uchisar Castle is a wonderland of caves and passages, each with its own character and charm. You can spend hours wandering around and discovering the secrets and surprises of the castle. Here are some of the main attractions and features of Uchisar Castle:
- The tunnels: The castle is connected by a network of tunnels that run through the rock, some of which are narrow and dark, while others are wide and bright. The tunnels were used for defense, communication, and ventilation, and some of them lead to the underground cities of Cappadocia. You can walk through the tunnels and feel the history and mystery of the castle.
- The chambers: The castle has hundreds of chambers that were used as living quarters, storage rooms, workshops, stables, and churches. The chambers are decorated with carvings, paintings, and symbols that reflect the different cultures and religions that inhabited the castle. You can enter some of the chambers and see how the people lived and worked in the castle.
- The windows: The castle has many windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and villages. The windows are also adorned with colorful curtains, carpets, and flowers that add to the charm and beauty of the castle. You can peek through the windows and admire the scenery and take photos.
- The balconies: The castle has several balconies that extend from the rock and provide panoramic views of Cappadocia. The balconies are also a great place to relax, enjoy the breeze, and watch the sunset. You can access some of the balconies and feel the thrill and excitement of being on top of the world.
- The terraces: The castle has three terraces that are located on the three peaks of the rock. The terraces are the highest and most impressive points of the castle, offering 360-degree views of Cappadocia. The terraces are also the best spots to see the hot air balloons that fill the sky every morning. You can climb to the terraces and experience the magic and wonder of Uchisar Castle.
Other Things to Do in Uchisar
Uchisar is not only home to Uchisar Castle, but also to many other attractions and activities that you can enjoy. Here are some of the other things to do in Uchisar:
- Hike the valleys: Uchisar is surrounded by three beautiful valleys that are perfect for hiking and exploring. The White Valley, Love Valley, and Pigeon Valley are named after their distinctive features, such as the white rock formations, the phallic-shaped fairy chimneys, and the pigeon houses. The valleys are also full of flora and fauna, such as wildflowers, fruit trees, and birds. You can hike the valleys and discover the natural wonders and hidden gems of Cappadocia.
- Eat at the cave restaurants: Uchisar has some of the best cave restaurants in Cappadocia, where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine in a cozy and authentic atmosphere. The cave restaurants are carved out of the rock and decorated with traditional rugs, cushions, and lanterns. You can taste some of the specialties of Cappadocia, such as pottery kebab, testi kebab, manti, borek, and baklava. You can also try some of the local drinks, such as Turkish tea, coffee, ayran, and wine.
- Visit the underground city of Kaymakli: Uchisar is close to the underground city of Kaymakli, one of the largest and most impressive underground cities in Cappadocia. Kaymakli is an ancient city that was built by the early Christians to escape persecution and invasion. The city has eight levels and consists of hundreds of rooms, tunnels, wells, churches, and ventilation shafts. You can visit the underground city and learn about the history and culture of the people who lived there.
Where to Stay in Uchisar
Uchisar is a great place to stay in Cappadocia, as it offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget to luxury, and from modern to traditional. Here are some of the best places to stay in Uchisar:
- Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge: This is a luxury boutique hotel that offers stunning views of Uchisar Castle and Cappadocia. The hotel has 11 spacious and elegant suites, each with a private terrace, fireplace, and jacuzzi. The hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, and a pool. The hotel is eco-friendly and uses solar energy, organic products, and recycled materials. The hotel is ideal for couples, honeymooners, and travelers who want to indulge in comfort and style.
- Taskonaklar Hotel: This is a charming hotel that is built into the rock and blends in with the natural landscape. The hotel has 18 cozy and rustic rooms, each with a unique design and character. The hotel also has a garden, a terrace, a restaurant, and a library. The hotel is family-friendly and pet-friendly, and offers activities such as cooking classes, pottery workshops, and yoga sessions. The hotel is perfect for travelers who want to experience the authentic and traditional atmosphere of Cappadocia.
- Kistar Cave Hotel: This is a budget-friendly hotel that is located in the heart of Uchisar, just a few steps from Uchisar Castle. The hotel has 10 simple and clean rooms, each with a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace, a lounge, and a breakfast room. The hotel is suitable for backpackers, solo travelers, and groups, and offers services such as airport transfers, bike rentals, and laundry. The hotel is a great option for travelers who want to save money and stay close to the main attraction of Uchisar.
Conclusion
Uchisar Castle is one of the most amazing and memorable places to visit in Cappadocia. It is a place where you can immerse yourself in the history, culture, and nature of this magical region. You can explore the castle, enjoy the views, and discover the secrets and surprises that await you. You can also enjoy the other attractions and activities that Uchisar has to offer, such as hiking the valleys, eating at the cave restaurants, and visiting the underground city of Kaymakli. You can also find a place to stay that suits your taste and budget, from luxury to budget, and from modern to traditional.
Are you ready to explore Uchisar Castle? What are you waiting for? Book your trip to Cappadocia today and experience the wonder and beauty of Uchisar Castle. And don't forget to share your experience with us in the comments below, or on our social media channels. We would love to hear from you. 😊
