With the inclusion of Ortahisar, the total number of "slow cities" in Turkey has increased to 29.
In the heart of Cappadocia, known as Turkey's "fairy tale land," the historic village of Ortahisar has received official status as a member of the International Cittaslow Network ("Slow Cities").
After a lengthy and thorough preparation process, this town was evaluated at a record high level, marking a significant step in its pursuit of sustainable development and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Thus, with the inclusion of Ortahisar in the Cittaslow network, the total number of "slow cities" in Turkey has risen to 29, further strengthening the country's position in the international Cittaslow movement.
Ortahisar: Harmony of Heritage and a Peaceful Lifestyle
Furthermore, Ortahisar has made it to Forbes' list of "50 Most Beautiful Villages in the World" for 2025, becoming one of the key tourist destinations in the region.
Located about 6 kilometers from Urgup, one of the largest cities in Cappadocia, the village is famous for its unique rock-hewn architecture, ancient castle, and picturesque sky filled with hot air balloons.
The center of the town is the Ortahisar Castle, which researchers believe was built during the Hittite period. This structure is now one of the highest points in the region, offering stunning panoramic views of Cappadocia's picturesque landscape.
The rock-hewn complex includes a complex network of caves and tunnels, as well as dovecotes, and is considered one of the earliest multi-story settlements on the planet.
Around the castle, one can see vibrant examples of traditional Cappadocian architecture. Narrow cobbled streets lined with apricot shops and tea gardens fragrant with roses lead to scenic valleys that once played a significant role in the region's agriculture. The rock-hewn storage facilities were used to store local produce, including apples and potatoes, as well as citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons from the Mediterranean.
Ortahisar is also famous for its religious monuments that reflect the deep cultural and spiritual traditions of the region. These include the Sarıja Church, the Cembazlı Church, the Tavşanlı Church, the churches of the Balkan Deresi Valley, and the Hallaç Deresi Monastery.
Turkey's Support for the Cittaslow Philosophy
The Cittaslow movement arose in response to concerns that globalization leads to the homogenization of urban life and the destruction of its unique identity. In Cittaslow cities, life flows at a calm pace, and local cuisine, architecture, traditions, and history are carefully preserved.
The Cittaslow Türkiye network was established in 2009 when the city of Seferihisar became the first Turkish participant in this movement. Since then, the network has gradually expanded, welcoming new cities.
As of today, the Cittaslow Türkiye network includes 29 cities from 24 provinces, representing all seven geographical regions of the country, reinforcing Turkey's reputation as a nation that cares for its cultural heritage and local identity.
Among the 29 "slow cities" in Turkey are: Ahlat, Akyaka, Arapgir, Çameli, Demre, Daday, Eğirdir, Finike, Foça, Gökçeada, Gerze, Göynük, Güdül, Halfeti, İbradı, İznik, Kemaliye, Köyceğiz, Mudurnu, Ortahisar, Perşembe, Safranbolu, Şarköy, Şavşat, Seferihisar, Uzundere, Vize, Yalvaç, and Yenipazar.
