After breakfast, we'll set off to discover the famous valleys of Cappadocia. This unique region is renowned for its exceptional natural rock formations. A very long time ago, volcanic eruptions caused lava flows which, as they solidified, formed tuff rocks. Erosion then sculpted them into spectacular formations known as ‘fairy chimneys’.
But it's not just the landscape that makes this place so special: the Hittites carved out these soft rocks to build houses, stables, shops, churches and hospitals. Later, the first Christians dug caves here and decorated the walls of rock chapels with frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Some of these frescoes, still surprisingly well preserved, bear witness to the talent and religious fervour of their authors.
In the Cappadocia region, we will visit the Göreme open-air museum, the Uçhisar valley (panoramic view), Avanos and Ürgüp (the ‘Three Beauties’), where we will have the opportunity to observe and buy pottery made using the traditional method of the foot-operated wheel.
In the afternoon, departure for Konya (approx. 3 hours' drive).
On arrival, you will attend the Şeb-i Arus Ceremony, commemorating Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi 's spiritual union with the divine. You will experience the mystical and spellbinding atmosphere of the Whirling Dervishes.
