Uçhisar Castle is a natural rock tower above the village of Uçhisar, in the Göreme area of Cappadocia. Hollowed into tunnels, rooms and pigeon holes, it rises about 60 meters and is the highest point in the region. A climb of roughly 200 stairs leads to the summit. From there you look over fairy chimneys, valleys, vineyards, orchards and dovecotes, and on a clear day the cone of Mount Erciyes. On the way up you pass cave rooms once used for shelter, with mangers and pit ovens cut into the stone. Sunrise and sunset give the best light.
A rock fortress, not a built castle
Uçhisar Castle does not look like the castles of Europe. It is a single mass of volcanic rock, about 60 meters high, that stands at roughly 1,350 meters above sea level. Its surface is pierced by caves of many sizes, and many of the smaller holes were used as pigeon nests, which gives the rock its honeycomb look. A small settlement grew up around its base.
The name Uçhisar is translated as "three fortresses". Cappadocia has several similar rock formations, but this is the tallest and the most rugged of them. The soft volcanic stone was shaped first by weather and erosion, then by people who hollowed out rooms and passages inside it.
What is known about its past
It is unclear when the castle was built. Because it was made by joining natural caves into connected rooms, there is no single construction date. The earliest written mention is in a chronicle from the 14th century. The castle is thought to have been the main defensive point of the region.
The volcanic origin of the landscape goes back much further. Mount Erciyes, which you can see from the summit, is one of three volcanoes whose eruptions around 30 million years ago laid the foundations of Cappadocia's terrain.
The climb through tunnels and rooms
The way to the top winds through tunnels and cave rooms that served as shelter when the area was under attack. Look at the walls and floors as you go. Livestock mangers and tandırlar, the traditional pit ovens, were scooped out of the stone, and they show how people lived and kept animals inside the rock.
The ascent is a short, steep hike of about 200 stairs. The steps are sturdy and the climb does not take long, though it is not a stroll. Comfortable shoes make it easier, and a pause on the way up is normal. At busy times the narrow passages and the platform at the top can get crowded.
The view from the top
The summit gives a full 360-degree view. To the east you look across the old quarter of Uçhisar village, past a second rock crag, to the outline of Mount Erciyes. In other directions the land opens onto fairy chimneys, deep valleys, villages, vineyards, orchards and pigeon houses. On clear days the distant mountains are visible too.
At sunrise, hot-air balloons float above the valleys and can be seen from the top. Sunset is the other favored hour, and many people also come for the light for photographs.
Getting there and parking
The castle is in Uçhisar village, a short drive or a small trek from Göreme. By public transport, take a bus from Göreme and walk about ten minutes from where it drops you.
If you drive, parking is free on the street but limited near the entrance. There is also a paid lot and paid street parking. The village at the entrance is worth some time, with local shops and restaurants within walking distance. Buying tickets in advance is recommended.
Häufige Fragen
How many stairs are there at Uçhisar Castle?
The climb to the summit is about 200 stairs. They are sturdy and the ascent is short but steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
When is the best time to visit Uçhisar Castle?
Sunrise, sunset or early morning. At sunrise you can see hot-air balloons from the top, and the light at both ends of the day suits photography.
How do I get to Uçhisar Castle from Göreme?
Take a bus from Göreme to Uçhisar village and walk about ten minutes to the castle. It is also a short drive from Göreme.
Is there parking at Uçhisar Castle?
Yes. There is free street parking, paid street parking and a paid lot. Spaces near the entrance are limited, so you may need to park further away.
Is Uçhisar Castle a real castle?
It is a natural rock formation about 60 meters high that was hollowed into rooms and tunnels, not a castle built from stone blocks. It is thought to have been the main defensive point of the region.
Is Uçhisar Castle suitable for children?
It is considered good for kids, but the climb is steep and the top can be crowded. Keep small children close.
