Valley of the Pigeons: Where the Sky Lives in the Rock

#hellohalloween Between Uchisar and Göreme lies Pigeon Valley, one of Cappadocia's most recognizable sites. From above, it appears to be simply a valley stretched between hills. But descend, and you hear the rustling of the air above. Those are pigeons. Not dozens, but hundreds of them. Since ancient times, dovecotes—small square holes—have been carved into these tuff pillars, still inhabited today. Pigeons were once bred specifically for this purpose: their droppings were used as fertilizer for vineyards, and the birds were used for postal service and to bless weddings. Now they simply live here, as they have for hundreds of years, returning to their nests every evening. 📍 Location: Between Göreme and Uchisar, Cappadocia, Türkiye. 🕐 When to go: In the morning, when hot air balloons fly over the valley, or in the evening, when the sun illuminates the cliffs from within. ⸻ How to get there (current as of 2025) 🚶 On foot: From Uchisar, follow the Pigeon Valley Trail sign down to Göreme – about 1.5 hours. The trail is rocky in places, but runs right alongside the dovecotes. 🚗 By car: You can drive to the Pigeon Valley Viewpoint – it's located at the entrance to Uchisar, offering panoramic views of the entire valley. Parking is free.