With the addition of Ortahisar to the Cittaslow network, the number of "slow cities" in Turkey has increased to 29.
Ortahisar, a historic village located in picturesque Cappadocia, has officially joined the international Cittaslow network, also known as "Slow Cities."
After a lengthy preparation process, the village received high marks, marking a significant step towards sustainable development and the preservation of its cultural heritage.
Now, with the addition of Ortahisar to the network, the total number of "slow cities" in Turkey stands at 29, highlighting the country's role in the international Cittaslow movement.
Ortahisar: a blend of traditions and a tranquil lifestyle
Additionally, Ortahisar has been included in Forbes' list of "50 Most Beautiful Villages in the World" for 2025, making it one of the main tourist destinations in the region.
Located just 6 km from Urgup, one of the largest cities in Cappadocia, Ortahisar is famous for its unique rock-hewn architecture and ancient castle, as well as a sky adorned with hot air balloons.
The center of the village is Ortahisar Castle, which, according to research, dates back to the Hittite period. This castle is one of the highest points in the region, offering breathtaking views of the Cappadocian landscape.
The rock-hewn complex includes numerous caves, dovecotes, and intricate tunnels, and is considered one of the first multi-story settlements in the world.
Near the castle, one can see vibrant examples of traditional Cappadocian architecture. Narrow cobbled streets lined with shops selling apricots and tea gardens fragrant with roses lead to picturesque valleys that once played a significant role in the region's agriculture. Storage facilities carved into the rocks were used to store local products such as apples, potatoes, and citrus fruits—oranges and lemons.
Ortahisar is also known for its religious monuments that reflect the rich spiritual and cultural traditions of the region. Among them are the Sarıca Church, the Cambazlı Church, the Tavşanlı Church, the churches of the Balkan Deresi Valley, and the Hallac Deresi Monastery.
Supporting the Cittaslow philosophy in Turkey
The Cittaslow movement emerged as a response to concerns that globalization leads to uniformity in urban life and erases its uniqueness. In Cittaslow cities, life flows at a calm pace, and local cuisine, architecture, and traditions are actively 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 across 24 provinces, covering all seven geographical regions of the country, thereby emphasizing Turkey's reputation as a nation that values and preserves 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.
