The ancient settlement of Ortahisar, located in the heart of Cappadocia, has officially joined the international Cittaslow network. The “slow city” status confirms the town’s rejection of the rush of globalization in favor of preserving traditions, ecology, and its unique local culture.

Ortahisar’s inclusion in the Cittaslow list with a record number of points is the result of extensive efforts to protect its historical heritage. Previously featured in Forbes’ list of the “50 Most Beautiful Villages in the World 2025,” the settlement is now regarded as a model of harmony between humans and nature.

The philosophy of Cittaslow in the heart of Cappadocia

The name of the movement combines the Latin word citta (city) and the English word slow. In such places, the main value lies in the ability to enjoy the moment. At the foot of the majestic Ortahisar Fortress, life still follows the traditions of the ancestors:

• Eco-friendly technologies: Natural storage facilities carved into the rocks still replace modern refrigerators, preserving harvests in natural coolness.

• Traditions: Local residents favor natural products and traditional crafts, maintaining the region’s distinctive economic identity.

• Architecture: Unique rock formations and hot air balloons floating in the sky create the unmistakable image of a town free from industrial noise.

Today, 29 districts of Türkiye embrace this calm lifestyle. The network, stretching from Ahlat to Safranbolu, showcases the cultural identity of Anatolia to the world.

For those seeking refuge from the exhausting bustle of megacities, Ortahisar becomes an ideal destination where history intertwines with absolute serenity.

ORIENT