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Forbes Lists Ortahisar Among the World’s Most Beautiful Villages

Ortahisar

Forbes, in collaboration with Unforgettable Travel Company, has revealed its annual ranking of the “World’s 50 Most Beautiful Villages.” Among the destinations from across five continents, Turkey secured a place with Nevşehir’s Ortahisar village, which claimed the 40th spot on the prestigious list.

Nestled in the heart of Cappadocia, Ortahisar captivated judges with its unique stone houses, narrow cobbled streets, and historic architecture. Forbes described the village as:

“Covered in apricot and ash tones, rising like a monument from the Cappadocia soil.”

Why Ortahisar Stands Out

Ortahisar is not only a village—it is a living museum of Cappadocia’s cultural and natural heritage. The landscape is adorned with cave dwellings carved from tuff stone, centuries-old churches, and orchards that give the town its rustic charm.

Highlights include:

  • Sivrikaya Castle: A towering landmark once used as a Byzantine refuge, standing as the symbol of Ortahisar.

  • Cambazlı Church: Dating back to the 13th century, reflecting Cappadocia’s rich religious history.

  • Balloon-filled skies: At sunrise, the village transforms into a magical scene with colorful hot-air balloons dotting the horizon.

Together, these features have cemented Ortahisar’s reputation as both a tourist attraction and a symbol of Turkish heritage.

Global Rankings: Europe Dominates the Top Spots

The Forbes list places heavy emphasis on scenic landscapes, cultural authenticity, and architectural preservation. The top five villages highlight Europe’s enduring charm:

  1. Bibury, England

  2. Hallstatt, Austria

  3. Reine, Norway

  4. Giethoorn, Netherlands

  5. Gásadalur, Faroe Islands

Other notable mentions include Oia in Greece, Shirakawa-go in Japan, and Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland.

By securing its place among these global icons, Ortahisar not only elevates Cappadocia’s international profile but also positions itself as a key cultural tourism hub for Turkey.

Tourism and Recognition

This recognition is expected to boost tourism in the region. Already famous for its rock formations, underground cities, and hot-air balloon rides, Cappadocia attracts millions of visitors annually. Ortahisar’s inclusion in the Forbes ranking adds another layer of prestige, drawing attention to lesser-known villages beyond the region’s more commercialized tourist sites.

The Bigger Picture

The “World’s 50 Most Beautiful Villages” list also reflects a growing trend in global travel: tourists are seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path destinations where cultural heritage remains intact. Forbes’ recognition of Ortahisar signals Turkey’s ability to offer both natural wonders and historical depth—an advantage for future tourism development strategies.

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