Üç Güzeller (The Three Beauties)
Travel Point Overview
Üç Güzeller (The Three Beauties) is one of Cappadocia’s most photographed and iconic natural formations. Located along the road leading to Ürgüp, these three fairy chimneys stand side by side, creating a breathtaking view that welcomes visitors. Beyond th
ÜÇ GÜZELLER: The Most Famous Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia
Üç Güzeller (The Three Beauties) is one of Cappadocia’s most photographed and iconic natural formations. Located along the road leading to Ürgüp, these three fairy chimneys stand side by side, creating a breathtaking view that welcomes visitors. Beyond their geological wonder, Üç Güzeller has been the subject of legends and folklore for centuries.
The formation of Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys is a natural process that took millions of years. Volcanic eruptions from Mount Erciyes, Mount Hasan, and Mount Melendiz covered the region with layers of lava and tuff. Over time, wind and water erosion shaped the landscape into its current unique appearance. However, the locals believed that these formations were too mystical to be explained by natural processes alone and attributed legends to them. Üç Güzeller is one of the most famous fairy chimney legends in the region.
LEGENDS OF ÜÇ GÜZELLER
📖 The Princess’s Love Story
The most well-known legend tells the story of a princess from the Kingdom of Cappadocia who fell in love with a shepherd. However, her father, the king, did not approve of this love and forbade their marriage. Despite her father’s disapproval, the princess and the shepherd eloped and had a child.
Hoping for forgiveness, the princess decided to return to the palace with her husband and child. However, instead of welcoming them, the king ordered his soldiers to kill them. At that moment, a divine light shone from the sky, and the princess, her husband, and their child turned to stone, becoming immortalized as the Üç Güzeller fairy chimneys.
📖 A Gift from the Fairies
Another legend suggests that these three fairy chimneys were a gift from the fairies to the people. According to the tale, fairies lived among humans in Cappadocia and protected the region. However, as time passed, humans began to harm nature and stopped believing in fairies. To warn humans, the Fairy Queen placed three large stones, leaving the message "Do not forget us". Since then, Üç Güzeller has been considered a sign that fairies still protect Cappadocia.
📖 The Love of the Goddess of Love and a Shepherd
Some versions of the story link Üç Güzeller to mythology, claiming that it represents the love between the Goddess of Love, Aphrodite, and a mortal shepherd. The shepherd was mesmerized by Aphrodite’s beauty and fell in love with her. However, because gods were forbidden from loving mortals, Zeus turned Aphrodite and the shepherd into stone, creating an eternal symbol of love.
WHERE IS ÜÇ GÜZELLER LOCATED?
📍 Üç Güzeller is located at the entrance of Ürgüp, along the Göreme-Ürgüp road.
📍 It is only a 5-minute drive from the center of Ürgüp and is one of the most popular stops for tour buses and individual travelers.
📍 The area features viewing terraces and small souvenir shops, making it a great place to enjoy the scenery and buy local crafts.
THINGS TO DO AT ÜÇ GÜZELLER
📸 Take Stunning Photos
Since Üç Güzeller is one of the most famous fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, it is the perfect place to capture unforgettable photos with breathtaking landscapes.
🌄 Watch the Sunset
At sunset, the fairy chimneys glow with red and golden hues, creating a magical atmosphere. It is one of the best spots in Cappadocia for a sunset view.
🎁 Buy Souvenirs
Local shops near Üç Güzeller sell handmade ceramics, jewelry, magnets, and Cappadocia’s famous wines, making it a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.
🚶 Explore Nearby Attractions
After visiting Üç Güzeller, you can wander through Ürgüp’s historic streets, climb Temenni Hill, or visit the charming Mustafapaşa Village.
HOW TO GET TO ÜÇ GÜZELLER?
🚗 By Car – It takes about 15 minutes to drive from Nevşehir to Üç Güzeller.
🚌 By Public Transport – Minibuses from Göreme and Ürgüp provide easy access to Üç Güzeller.
✈️ By Air – The nearest airports are:
✈️ Nevşehir Cappadocia Airport (40 km away)
✈️ Kayseri Erkilet Airport (70 km away)
For shuttle or private transfer reservations, you can book through the Advisormapp app or website.
📌 As one of the most visited spots in Cappadocia, Üç Güzeller offers both enchanting legends and breathtaking views, making it a must-see destination. Capture unforgettable moments and be mesmerized by this natural wonder on your Cappadocia journey! 🚀✨