Gesi Vineyards and Pigeon Houses
Travel Point Overview
Located just east of Kayseri, Gesi Vineyards (Gesi Bağları) are known not only for their natural beauty and historic vineyards but also for their unique stone pigeon houses, which represent a rare architectural heritage in Turkey. These “tower-type” ....
Gesi Vineyards and Pigeon Houses – A Hidden Architectural Gem of Kayseri
Located just east of Kayseri, Gesi Vineyards (Gesi Bağları) are known not only for their natural beauty and historic vineyards but also for their unique stone pigeon houses, which represent a rare architectural heritage in Turkey. These “tower-type” pigeon houses can only be found in this region, making Gesi a remarkable destination for cultural and historical exploration.
🕊️ The History and Purpose of Pigeon Houses
In many regions of Anatolia, pigeon droppings were historically considered a valuable fertilizer for gardens and vineyards due to their rich mineral content. To ensure a regular supply of this organic fertilizer, people began raising wild pigeons using purpose-built structures.
Throughout Turkey, pigeon houses vary by region:
- Cappadocia: Carved into rock formations
- Diyarbakır (Boranhaneler): Built with adobe bricks
- Gesi (Kayseri): Made of stone in tower-like form
What sets the Gesi pigeon houses apart is their underground chambers, a feature unique to Turkey and not found in similar structures abroad. This architectural design allowed for efficient collection and storage of pigeon droppings, while also contributing to the aesthetic of the landscape.
🏛️ Architectural Significance of Gesi Pigeon Houses
The pigeon houses in Gesi typically feature:
- A tower-like stone structure built with skilled masonry
- Openings and niches on the upper part for pigeons to nest
- A collection chamber below ground for gathering droppings
- Durable and elegant designs that have lasted for centuries
These buildings are more than agricultural tools — they are works of local craftsmanship that reflect the resourcefulness and creativity of the region’s people.
🍇 Exploring Gesi Vineyards
In addition to the pigeon towers, Gesi is famous for its vineyards, traditional stone houses, and tranquil rural scenery. During the grape harvest season, the area comes alive with local activity, making it an ideal time to visit.
The area is also well-known thanks to the famous Turkish folk song “Gesi Bağları,” which symbolizes longing and nostalgia.
📍 Where is Gesi?
Gesi is located approximately 18 kilometers east of Kayseri city center.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Take the Kayseri–Sivas road heading east
- About 12 km outside the city, turn right onto the 6-km road leading to Gesi
- Use navigation apps and search for “Gesi Bağları, Kayseri” for directions
🚶 What Can You Do There?
- Explore the historic pigeon towers
- Walk through the vineyards and enjoy nature
- Discover local architecture and rural life
- Use the Advisormapp app for audio guides, local walking routes, and food recommendations
📲 Plan Your Visit with Advisormapp
With the Advisormapp mobile app, you can find directions to Gesi, listen to multilingual audio guides about the pigeon towers, and explore nearby attractions, natural trails, and restaurants for a full-day experience in Kayseri's countryside.
✨ Quick Facts:
- 📍 Location: Gesi, 18 km east of Kayseri
- 🏛️ Feature: Stone-built tower-type pigeon houses
- 🧱 Architectural uniqueness: Only found in Gesi, with underground chambers
- 🚗 Access: 6 km off the Kayseri–Sivas highway
- 🎯 Purpose: Historically used for pigeon breeding and fertilizer collection
