Carpets, gems, wine and icons

We journeyed today to the open air museum called Goreme and part of the cave system dug into the volcanic rock of cappadocia. There are eleven seperate caves, some with rock-cut churches tables and benches, embedded in them. Each cave is associated with a church and reveal ancient paintings or iconic of the saints, Mary, Jesus and pilgrimage. Most of the churches in Goreme Open Air Museum belong to the 10th, 11th and 12th centuries. There was also an ancient multi storey Nunnery which we were not able to enter but which looked very serene side by side the monastery. Lots of religious tourist visiting this place and praying in front of icons.
After this up hill heavy walking we went to a pigeon house look out and got some great snaps of the fairy chimney valley. A highlight of our day was visiting an authentic handmade rugs factory (very pregnant factory). We met two carpet makers and learned all about the knits, weaves, dyes and types of rugs. We were served turkish tea and raki (greek oozo) and all the rugs were laid out - so beautiful. Rugs were silk, wool and cotton and with ancient, traditional or tribal in design The woman carpet makers are paid by the knot and the average carpet has over a million knots. It is a disappearing skill due to girls/women’s availability and roles (education) changing. We almost bought a new turkish rug but then decided not to!!!! Off we went to a wine cellar and did some wine tasting. Of course it takes a lot to impress with our great australian wines and value. We had a traditional turkish pide that was yummy and managed to squeeze in a siesta due to our early start. Another beautiful day in cappadocia which ended with wine and whiskey over the valley from our tour leader and driver. A few group photos too.Read more