Like many other fairy chimneys in the region, Ortahisar was formed millions of years ago due to volcanic eruption and the gradual erosion of the resulting rock. Nonetheless, the exact period of the citadel’s fortification is unknown, with some researchers suggesting that the Hittites erected the first structures on Ortahisar.
In the Byzantine era, the fortress formed one of three that guarded Cappadocia, the other two being Baskale (Main Castle) in Urgup and Uchisar (Third Fortress). For the longest time, the rock citadel was known as the most prominent fairy chimney in Cappadocia. Still, steady erosion has decreased its size so much that in 2004, it was closed as a precautionary move to prevent an accident. It stayed closed until 2013 when it was reopened after the necessary steps had been taken.
Today, the rock citadel has undergone extensive renovation to prevent it from collapsing. In addition, any cracks in the castle walls are filled with special materials designed to avoid further erosion. As a result, the structure looks pretty spectacular from the outside and is surrounded by the kind of architecture unique to Cappadocia.
Inside, the region’s early inhabitants carved charming rooms and saloons, providing intriguing insights into their lives. To connect these rooms, there are lots of mazy tunnels running throughout the structure. The town surrounding the citadel is also full of lots of lovely abbeys and churches.
Several minibusses operate regularly from Urgup and Nevsehir to the town. It is 15km east of Nevsehir, 6km west of Urgup, and 5km south of Goreme town. You can also use a rented car to travel from your base to the town.
One thing you will quickly realize about Ortahisar is that the town may have a couple of hotels, restaurants, and even a museum, but it leads to mostly traditional town life. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a more profound Turkish experience that is yet to be influenced by the influx of tourists, this is the town to be. Moreover, the inhabitants here are pretty friendly, which serves to enhance your traditional experience further.
As you enter the town, pay close attention to the doors on the rock surfaces on either side of the way. The doors open into natural air-conditioned rooms that store local potatoes, onions, quinces, oranges, lemons from the Mediterranean, and apples from Nigde. These rooms are arguably the best example of cool-air storage in the entire region.
The first thing you’re going to love is the picturesque stone houses built on either side of the narrow streets of the town. And in line with the Cappadocian norm, there are several lovely homes and houses carved directly into the town. These churches are vital to the history of the town and Cappadocia as a whole.
You can start by exploring the Ali Reis Church, which sits on a street close to the rock castle. On the central dome of the church, there is a painting of Christ. Within the town, there are the Balkan Valley and a couple more churches.
If you still want to explore more medieval churches, a few have been restored and opened in the vicinity of the town. These include the Sarica Church, Kepez Church, and Pancarlik Church. The last church, in particular, is decorated by well-preserved frescoes decorating its ceiling so that the hike will be worth it.
Speaking of hikes, what brings visitors to the town is the opportunity to hike the Ortahisar and get to the summit. This giant rock castle is honeycombed with tunnels and caves, with a staircase installed to help visitors access the peak. From up here, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the entire area, including the snowy peak of Mt. Erciyes. You can also see stunning fairy chimneys while in the summit, which by the way, is an excellent place to take photos.
Opening Hours
The rock castle in the town is open daily from 8 am to 6 am.
Ortahisar is central and, thus, in proximity to many attractions in the region. However, some places like Goreme are not that far off, and you can even walk all the way and explore the Goreme Open Air Museum.
