Old Sinasos – New Mustafapaşa

Old Sınasos – New Mustafapaşa

One of the most captivating villages in Cappadocia, Mustafapaşa, formerly known as Sinasos, is a must-visit destination for its architectural heritage, intricate stonework, and historical ambiance. Located right next to Ürgüp, this village was a popular summer retreat for Greek merchants from Istanbul during the Ottoman era. Many wealthy Greek families, particularly those involved in caviar trade, built magnificent stone mansions here, where they spent their summers.

However, following the population exchange in 1924, the Greek inhabitants were relocated to Greece, and the village was renamed Mustafapaşa. Over time, many of the once-grand structures were abandoned, but in recent years, tourism has breathed new life into the village. Today, with the restoration of stone mansions, boutique hotels, churches, and guesthouses, Mustafapaşa has become one of Cappadocia’s most unique destinations.

THE MAGNIFICENT STONE HOUSES OF SINASOS

🏠 Mustafapaşa’s architecture represents some of the finest examples of traditional Cappadocian stone craftsmanship. The houses, cascading down the hillsides, blend seamlessly into the rocky landscape.

🔹 The rear sections of most houses are carved into the rock, while the facades are built from yellowish-cut stone extracted from local quarries.

🔹 Doorways, window frames, and stone cornices are adorned with fan motifs, rosettes, stars, and stylized plant patterns.

🔹 Wooden doors and windows, metal knockers, and elegant balcony railings reflect Ottoman-era architectural influences.

🔹 Spacious courtyards and intricately decorated interior niches showcase the artistic sensibilities of the time.

PLACES TO VISIT IN MUSTAFAPAŞA

🏛️ Mehmet Şakir Pasha Madrasa (1890)

Built during the Ottoman period, this madrasa is one of the most impressive structures in the village, known for its exquisite stonework and elegant design. Today, it hosts various exhibitions and artistic events.

⛪ St. Nicholas Monastery

One of Mustafapaşa’s largest religious structures, this monastery features intricate relief carvings at the entrance and well-preserved frescoes, offering a glimpse into the artistic heritage left behind by the Greek population.

⛪ Church of Sts. Constantine and Helena

📍 Located in the center of Mustafapaşa, this church dates back to 1729. It is one of the best-preserved Greek Orthodox churches in Cappadocia, with remarkable frescoes still visible today.

🏚️ Old Greek House

An excellent example of Greek architecture, this historic mansion has been transformed into a boutique hotel and restaurant. With its impressive stonework and authentic atmosphere, it offers visitors a glimpse into Mustafapaşa’s rich history.

HOW TO GET TO MUSTAFAPAŞA?

🚗 By Car: 20 km from Nevşehir, only 6 km from Ürgüp.

🚌 By Public Transport: Minibuses from Ürgüp run regularly to Mustafapaşa.

✈️ By Air:

✈️ Nevşehir Cappadocia Airport (50 km)

✈️ Kayseri Erkilet Airport (80 km)

🚖 For shuttle services from Cappadocia Airport, use the Advisormapp app.

📌 If you want to immerse yourself in history, explore stone mansions and ancient churches, make sure to add Mustafapaşa to your itinerary! 🏡✨