A Historic Boutique Hotel
in the Heart of Cappadocia

Located 15 km north of Nevşehir, Avanos, known as ‘Venessa’ in ancient times, has a history dating back to around 2000 BC, to the era of the Hittites. The tradition of Avanos pottery has continued uninterrupted since the Hittite civilization, which played a significant role in shaping the cultural heritage of Cappadocia.

In ancient times, Avanos pottery was transported on horseback and donkey caravans to be sold in nearby villages and towns. This tradition continued throughout the Ottoman period and even after the establishment of the Turkish Republic. Back then, pottery was such an essential part of life in Avanos that men were expected to master the craft before they could marry.

Caravans of Avanos potters would travel along the Kayseri – Gülşehir – Aksaray route, selling their handmade pottery at local markets. They would call out “Fill it with rice, bulgur, cheese, or salt!” as they exchanged their pottery for an amount of agricultural produce equal to the capacity of each vessel. This traditional barter system provided their livelihood for generations. Pottery that broke during these journeys was discarded along the roadsides, gradually forming distinctive trails of pottery fragments along the routes leading to Avanos.

During your stay in Cappadocia, a visit to Avanos would not be complete without exploring its traditional pottery workshops. In the town center, you will find numerous workshops whose names begin with Chez, a French word meaning “at the home or place of.” One of the most famous is Chez Galip, renowned for its unique Hair Museum, which has earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records. Another remarkable destination is Güray Pottery, home to one of the region’s largest pottery showrooms, covering 3,700 m² of rock-carved space. Güray Pottery also established the Cappadocia Underground Ceramics Museum, bringing together an extraordinary collection of pieces representing the rich history of Anatolian ceramic art.

Often referred to as the ‘Center of Handicrafts and Shopping in Cappadocia,’ Avanos proudly celebrates its artistic heritage. In the heart of the town, you will encounter the iconic Pottery Maker’s Monument, a tribute to its traditional craftsmanship. One section of the monument depicts a woman and a young girl working at a weaving loom, while the other portrays a potter shaping clay on a traditional wheel positioned between his legs.