The Phrygian Valley, also known as the Phrygian Highlands or basically Turkey's 2nd Cappadocia, is a picturesque region located in central Turkey. Nestled between the provinces of Afyonkarahisar, Eskişehir, Ankara, and Kütahya, the valley is renowned for its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural significance. 
The valley derives its name from the ancient Phrygians, who inhabited the area during antiquity. It was an important center of Phrygian civilization and served as the heartland of their kingdom. The Phrygians left behind a rich legacy of archaeological sites and artifacts that are scattered throughout the valley.
One of the notable features of the Phrygian Valley is its distinct rock formations, which resemble fairy chimneys. These unique geological formations were shaped by thousands of years of erosion, resulting in whimsical shapes and patterns in the rocks. The valley's landscape is adorned with cone-shaped rock pillars, rocky cliffs, and hidden caves, creating a surreal and enchanting atmosphere.
The Phrygian Valley is home to numerous historical sites that showcase the ancient Phrygian civilization. Among the most famous is the ancient city of Midas City (also known as Yazılıkaya), which was the religious and political center of the Phrygian Kingdom. It features rock-cut tombs, ancient temples, and intricate rock reliefs depicting Phrygian deities and kings.
Another prominent site in the Phrygian Valley is the ancient city of Gordion, located near the modern village of Yassıhöyük. Gordion is renowned for its fascinating archaeological remains, including the famous Midas Mound, where the tomb of the legendary King Midas was discovered. The site provides valuable insights into the Phrygian civilization and offers visitors a glimpse into the ancient past.
Besides the historical sites, the Phrygian Valley is also known for its natural beauty. The region is adorned with rolling hills, verdant valleys, and picturesque lakes, such as Emre Lake. These natural landscapes provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and photography.
In recent years, the Phrygian Valley has gained popularity as a tourist destination, attracting history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, hike along the Phrygian Way—a scenic trail that winds through the valley—visit local villages to experience the traditional way of life, and enjoy the tranquility of the untouched natural surroundings.
The historic Phrygian Valley, which is over 3,000 years old and situated between Afyonkarahisar, Eskişehir, Ankara, and Kütahya, is making preparations to welcome enthusiasts of history and nature during the upcoming Qurban Bayram (Eid al-Adha) holidays.
Efforts are underway to develop the Phrygian Way route, a 25-kilometer path between Emre Lake and Ayazini village in the Ihsaniye district of Afyonkarahisar, which is highly appealing to nature lovers and photographers. These development investments, led by the Afyonkarahisar Governorship, aim to promote the route and enhance its attraction.
Among the mesmerizing attractions awaiting visitors are the captivating Aslantaş and Yılantaş in Göynüs Valley. Additionally, the recently restored Maltaş Open Air Temple, known for its historical significance, generates significant interest among tourists.
A breathtaking view of the ancient rock settlements, carved rock tombs, chapels, and fairy chimneys of Phrygia can be observed from a hot-air balloon floating over Emre Lake.
Ayazini village offers a chance to explore historical sites and indulge in local gastronomic delights, leaving a lasting impression. Ihsaniye District hosts two million domestic and foreign tourists annually, compared to the previous 200,000 guests. Döğer town and Ayazini village basically formed a tourism circle in the valley.
Phrygia now boasts not only concerts, boutique cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops but also an increased number of traders, contributing to employment opportunities in the region. Recently, The region has witnessed a growth from two to 40 traders, with expectations of further increase and new workplaces. As the Qurban Bayram approaches, preparations are underway by traders in Phrygia.
Afyonkarahisar and Ihsaniye districts are known for their thermal hotels, with high occupancy rates. The 25-kilometer Phrygian Road is a popular travel route during the holiday season, with recommendations for visitors to explore the 3,000-year-old historical sites, according to Koyuncu.
The valley derives its name from the ancient Phrygians, who inhabited the area during antiquity. It was an important center of Phrygian civilization and served as the heartland of their kingdom. The Phrygians left behind a rich legacy of archaeological sites and artifacts that are scattered throughout the valley.
One of the notable features of the Phrygian Valley is its distinct rock formations, which resemble fairy chimneys. These unique geological formations were shaped by thousands of years of erosion, resulting in whimsical shapes and patterns in the rocks. The valley's landscape is adorned with cone-shaped rock pillars, rocky cliffs, and hidden caves, creating a surreal and enchanting atmosphere.
The Phrygian Valley is home to numerous historical sites that showcase the ancient Phrygian civilization. Among the most famous is the ancient city of Midas City (also known as Yazılıkaya), which was the religious and political center of the Phrygian Kingdom. It features rock-cut tombs, ancient temples, and intricate rock reliefs depicting Phrygian deities and kings.
Another prominent site in the Phrygian Valley is the ancient city of Gordion, located near the modern village of Yassıhöyük. Gordion is renowned for its fascinating archaeological remains, including the famous Midas Mound, where the tomb of the legendary King Midas was discovered. The site provides valuable insights into the Phrygian civilization and offers visitors a glimpse into the ancient past.
Besides the historical sites, the Phrygian Valley is also known for its natural beauty. The region is adorned with rolling hills, verdant valleys, and picturesque lakes, such as Emre Lake. These natural landscapes provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and photography.
In recent years, the Phrygian Valley has gained popularity as a tourist destination, attracting history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, hike along the Phrygian Way—a scenic trail that winds through the valley—visit local villages to experience the traditional way of life, and enjoy the tranquility of the untouched natural surroundings.
The historic Phrygian Valley, which is over 3,000 years old and situated between Afyonkarahisar, Eskişehir, Ankara, and Kütahya, is making preparations to welcome enthusiasts of history and nature during the upcoming Qurban Bayram (Eid al-Adha) holidays.
Efforts are underway to develop the Phrygian Way route, a 25-kilometer path between Emre Lake and Ayazini village in the Ihsaniye district of Afyonkarahisar, which is highly appealing to nature lovers and photographers. These development investments, led by the Afyonkarahisar Governorship, aim to promote the route and enhance its attraction.
Among the mesmerizing attractions awaiting visitors are the captivating Aslantaş and Yılantaş in Göynüs Valley. Additionally, the recently restored Maltaş Open Air Temple, known for its historical significance, generates significant interest among tourists.
A breathtaking view of the ancient rock settlements, carved rock tombs, chapels, and fairy chimneys of Phrygia can be observed from a hot-air balloon floating over Emre Lake.
Ayazini village offers a chance to explore historical sites and indulge in local gastronomic delights, leaving a lasting impression. Ihsaniye District hosts two million domestic and foreign tourists annually, compared to the previous 200,000 guests. Döğer town and Ayazini village basically formed a tourism circle in the valley.
Phrygia now boasts not only concerts, boutique cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops but also an increased number of traders, contributing to employment opportunities in the region. Recently, The region has witnessed a growth from two to 40 traders, with expectations of further increase and new workplaces. As the Qurban Bayram approaches, preparations are underway by traders in Phrygia.
Afyonkarahisar and Ihsaniye districts are known for their thermal hotels, with high occupancy rates. The 25-kilometer Phrygian Road is a popular travel route during the holiday season, with recommendations for visitors to explore the 3,000-year-old historical sites, according to Koyuncu.