Pigeon Valley, known as Güvercinlik Vadisi in Turkish, is located in the heart of Cappadocia, a region in central Turkey famous for its unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and historical sites. The valley stretches between the towns of Göreme and Uchisar, both of which are major tourist hubs in Cappadocia.
How to Get There?
1. From Göreme: Pigeon Valley is easily accessible from Göreme, which is a central town in Cappadocia and a popular base for tourists. The valley starts just on the outskirts of Göreme. You can start your hike from Göreme by heading towards Uchisar. The trailhead is well-marked and easy to find.
2. From Uchisar: If you are starting from Uchisar, the valley begins at the base of Uchisar Castle, a prominent landmark in the area. The trail leading into the valley is also well-marked and begins near the castle.
Transport Options
1. Walking/Hiking: The most common way to explore Pigeon Valley is on foot. The trail between Göreme and Uchisar is about 4 kilometers long and can be completed in 1.5 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace.
2. Public Transport: Local buses and minibuses (dolmus) run frequently between Göreme and Uchisar, making it easy to reach either end of the valley.
3. Car/Bike: You can also drive or cycle to the starting points of the valley, park your vehicle, and then proceed on foot.
Nearby Attractions
1. Göreme
Göreme Open Air Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring rock-cut churches with beautiful frescoes.
Fairy Chimneys: Unique rock formations that Cappadocia is famous for.
2. Uchisar
Uchisar Castle: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is the highest point in Cappadocia.
Pigeon Houses: Scattered throughout the valley, these dovecotes are a key feature of the landscape.
Points of Interest
Rock Formations: The valley is dotted with fairy chimneys and other interesting geological features.
Pigeon Houses: These structures were used to collect pigeon droppings for fertilizer.
Scenic Views: There are several vantage points along the trail offering panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding landscape.
Entrance Fee
There is no entrance fee to explore Pigeon Valley. It is an open hiking area that can be accessed freely by visitors.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Pigeon Valley is named after the numerous pigeon houses (dovecotes) carved into its cliffs. These pigeon houses were created by local farmers to collect pigeon droppings, which were used as a valuable fertilizer for the region's vineyards and crops. The practice dates back hundreds of years and was an important part of the local agricultural system.
Story of Pigeon Valley
The valley has a rich history intertwined with the unique culture and traditions of Cappadocia. The region's inhabitants discovered that pigeon droppings made an excellent natural fertilizer due to their high nutrient content. As a result, they carved numerous pigeon houses into the soft volcanic rock of the valley's cliffs to attract pigeons. These pigeon houses often feature small entrance holes and ledges for the birds to perch on.
Over time, Pigeon Valley became a crucial area for sustaining the agricultural practices of the local communities. The fertile soil enriched by pigeon droppings contributed to the successful cultivation of grapes, which were used to produce wine, and other crops essential to the local economy.
In addition to its agricultural significance, Pigeon Valley is also known for its stunning natural beauty. The valley offers a picturesque landscape with unique rock formations, lush vegetation, and panoramic views of the surrounding Cappadocian terrain. It is a popular destination for hiking and photography, attracting tourists who wish to experience the natural and cultural heritage of Cappadocia.
Summary
Pigeon Valley is a beautiful and historically significant area in Cappadocia, known for its ancient pigeon houses and stunning natural scenery. With no entrance fee, it offers an accessible and enriching experience for visitors interested in exploring the unique cultural and agricultural history of the region while enjoying the breathtaking landscape.
