Cappadocia is an extraordinary region filled with must-see destinations. Its rich history and breathtaking natural beauty attract thousands of tourists every year. From churches and open-air museums to underground cities and valleys, Cappadocia is a feast for the eyes and the soul. Among all these attractions, 3 Beauties Fairy Chimneys often come to mind first when we think of Cappadocia. Particularly, the 3 Beauties Fairy Chimneys (Üç Güzeller Fairy Chimneys) stand out not only for their stunning appearance but also for the fascinating legend attached to them. As with many places in Cappadocia, these fairy chimneys also have their own tale. Let’s explore more about the Fairy Chimneys and the story of the Three Beauties.
What are 3 Beauties Fairy Chimneys?
Fairy Chimneys are cone-shaped rock formations with boulder-like caps on top, abundant in Cappadocia. These formations are the result of natural erosion by water, rain, and wind on volcanic tuff. None of these structures are man-made—they are entirely natural formations.
In Cappadocia, you can find many types of Fairy Chimneys. They range in size from 1 to 15 meters. If a formation is smaller than 1 meter or taller than 15 meters, it is not classified as a Fairy Chimney. You may also encounter pointed, mushroom-shaped, or column-like Fairy Chimneys. Although similar formations can be found in other parts of the world, nowhere are they as dense as in Cappadocia. This has earned Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys a spot on the list of the Seven Wonders of the World.
How Were 3 Beauties Fairy Chimneys Formed?
The Fairy Chimneys were formed during geological periods of active volcanism. About 60 million years ago, the rising Taurus Mountains and many different calderas compressed the Anatolian fault, causing volcanic eruptions. Research indicates that millions of years ago, the Cappadocia region was actually an inland sea. The lava from the volcanoes eventually dried up this sea, creating a tuff layer. This layer, containing basalt, clay, sandstone, and volcanic ash, resulted in areas of varying hardness. Over time, rain, wind, and floods sculpted the formations into the breathtaking Fairy Chimneys we see today.
The Fairy Chimneys have been utilized by civilizations such as the Hittites, Byzantines, Persians, Seljuks, and Ottomans. They served as homes, churches, monasteries, and more. The carved interiors often feature depictions from the Bible, adding significant historical and cultural value. For more detailed information, you can read our article on the Formation of Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys.
Where are the 3 Beauties Fairy Chimneys and How to Get There?
The 3 Beauties Fairy Chimneys are located about a 5-minute drive from the center of Ürgüp. They are easily accessible, even on foot. Along the way, you’ll come across many other Fairy Chimneys in Ürgüp. The Three Beauties can be viewed from an observation point along the Ürgüp-Nevşehir highway.
For a detailed tour of the Three Beauties and other nearby attractions, you can join the Cappadocia Red Tour, one of the most popular tours in the region. It’s an ideal one-day itinerary for those with limited time in Cappadocia. For more details, read our Cappadocia Regional Tours article or book a tour with HTR Turkey Tours.
The Legend of the 3 Beauties Fairy Chimneys
According to legend, a king once had a beautiful daughter who fell deeply in love with a shepherd. The king disapproved of their love, believing it unfit for his royal daughter to marry a common shepherd. Despite his objections, the couple eloped. Over time, they had a child and hoped the king would forgive them upon seeing his grandchild. However, when they approached the palace, the king’s wrath was unrelenting. He ordered his soldiers to kill them.
As the family faced their doom, the daughter prayed, “O God, grant us a miracle and save us from this suffering.” Her prayer was answered—they were turned into stone.
The Three Beauties Fairy Chimneys consist of two large and one smaller formation, representing the mother, father, and child. They are one of the most photographed spots in Cappadocia and stand out due to their distinctive “hats.”
