Uçhisar Castle

A Fortress in the Sky – The Highest Point in Cappadocia

Rising majestically above the landscape, Uçhisar Castle becomes even more enchanting at dusk when it's illuminated against the dramatic backdrop of lightning-lit skies. This natural rock fortress, situated at the highest point in Cappadocia, served for centuries as a strategic lookout and defense site.

History and Significance

Uçhisar Castle is formed by two massive fairy chimneys that were hollowed out by hand. Used as dwellings, storage rooms, water cisterns, and tombs since Roman times, the castle played a major role as a shelter during Arab invasions in the Middle Ages. Historical accounts note the use of stone catapults as part of its defense system.

During the Seljuk era, its location at the eastern border of Cappadocia earned it the name “Uç Hisar” (meaning “Frontier Fortress”). Along with the fortresses of Ortahisar and Ürgüp (Başhisar), Uçhisar remained a key military post. The cave homes surrounding the castle remained inhabited until the 1960s. Today, visitors can explore its interior tunnels, rooms, and connecting stairways, gaining a first-hand experience of life within the rock.

Architecturally, the castle consists of two main rock masses one large, one smaller known locally as “Ağa’s Castle” and “Çavuş’s Castle”. The north face rises over 100 meters, while the southern face exceeds 50 meters, making it Cappadocia’s natural skyscraper.

Panoramic Views and Visitor Experience

At the summit, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. On clear days, you can spot both Mount Erciyes and Mount Hasan Uçhisar is said to be the only place where both volcanic peaks are visible simultaneously.

The sunset transforms the area into a golden spectacle, with the castle crowning the horizon. The silence, broken only by the breeze, creates a profound sense of timelessness.

Inside the castle, stairways and narrow tunnels guide you through a historical labyrinth. Approximately 100 steps lead to the top most are easily accessible, though some passages are narrow. Signage within the site helps visitors navigate with ease.

At the base, the Pigeon Valley trail begins, offering scenic walks all the way to Göreme. Around the castle entrance, you’ll find cafés with panoramic terraces, artisan shops, souvenir stalls, and stands selling local products. After sunset, many visitors enjoy regional cuisine at nearby restaurants.

Visitor Information

• Location & Access: About 7–8 km from Nevşehir, and 5 km from Göreme. Easily reached via the Göreme–Ürgüp road. Public minibuses and parking available.
• Opening Hours:
  • Summer: 07:00–20:00
  • Winter: 08:00–17:00
  (Weather may affect schedule.)
• Entrance Fee (2024):
  • Turkish Citizens: 80 TL (students: 50 TL)
  • Foreign Visitors: ~100–150 TL
  (Museum Pass not accepted.)

Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes paths can be uneven.
• Use a phone flashlight in darker tunnels; mind your head.
• Bring a light jacket or shawl it gets windy near sunset.
• Visit early morning to avoid peak crowds and heat.

Every step toward the summit deepens your connection with the wonder of Cappadocia. Uçhisar Castle is not only a historical site, but a timeless vantage point that captures the heart of the region.