Cappadocian Adventures from Earth to Sky
by Alison Weissbrot
Daily balloon ritual in Cappadocia. All photos by Karen Bianchi.
CAPPADOCIA, Turkey – California-based photographer Karen Bianchi wanted an adventure. What was she hoping to find? A new culture, a rich history, and some otherworldly scenery. It's no wonder she was lured to Cappadocia.
A timeworn city in the Anatolian region of Turkey, Cappadocia's rocky landscape (sculpted from thousands of years of wind and rain) has resulted in structures referred to as "fairy chimneys" by the locals. The mystical topography has inspired a sunrise tradition: Each morning, 80 to 100 balloons soar through the sky, putting on a display of airborne beauty.
Karen explored Cappadocia's quaint hotels and restaurants, nestled right into the city's cliffs; she learned the art of Turkish pottery-making from a local guru; and, of course, she sailed away on a magic hot air balloon ride.
Welcome to Cappadocia
Where the hot air balloons put on a show every morning.
Fairy Chimneys
Local legend has it that eroded volcanoes make a perfect hideout for mystical creatures.
Up, Up, and Away
Can we tag along for a ride?
Learning From the Master
Pottery mastery Galip Korukcu is famous in the region for spinning beautiful pieces of ceramic with his feet.
Pretty, Delicate, and Uniquely Original
Galip's finished products. He's known to make over 200 pieces a day.
Pottery Loot
To be hauled off for painting.
Peeking Through
Cliffside crevices make the best viewpoints in Cappadocia.
Yunak Evleri Hotel
Where your room is a restored 5th-century cave.
Enter with Caution
Quaintness overload! Charming details around every corner.
Retreat to the Caves
A cozy stone room at Yunak Evleri.
On the Patio at Muti
A picturesque spot to pair grilled salmon, fresh veggies, and tabouleh salad with crisp Turkish wine.
City of Caves
Cappadocian architecture works with the rocky landscape.
Take Me Away
In a Cappadocian dream.
An Ancient Tradition
And a sight to see.
SEE MORE OF KAREN'S WORK
BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE
An Artist Dies Fabrics, Dodges Suitors, Wears Bridal Gowns, and Hikes Around Cappadocia
Stephanie March's Istanbul Diary
Who You Calling Chicken, Turkey?
