Day 13

Thursday 6th October, 2011

Here we are in the area called Cappodocia and the last day on the road as we fly back to Istanbul tonight.  This region is known for the fascinating landscape of thousands of weathered pyramid like formations made of hardened volcanic ash, which has been dramatically eroded to form spectacular scenery.  The incredible landscape was created around 30 million years ago.  The unique moon-like landscape contains underground cities, cave churches and houses carved in the rocks and walls and the view of the Valley of the Pigeons shows entire villages of tiny cottages with many homes carved out of the rocks walls. 

After lunch we visited a pottery where beautiful ceramics were made and available for sale.   Platters and bowls,  wine flasks and plaques were all on display.  After a demonstration showing how a wine flask was made we were allowed to wander through the underground show rooms filled with brilliant (and expensive) ceramics.  It was hard to resist the beautiful work on display. 

Back on the coach and off to the airport for the 1 ½ hour flight back to Istanbul and our hotel for two nights.  Sadly the wonderful trip is quickly coming to an end.