Planning a visit to Mustafapasa Village, Cappadocia? This charming and historically rich village, formerly known as Sinasos, is one of the most authentic and well-preserved Greek settlements in Cappadocia.
Located just 6 km from Urgup, Mustafapasa is famous for its beautiful stone mansions, historic churches, and peaceful atmosphere—making it a perfect escape from the busier tourist spots.
Imagine walking through narrow cobblestone streets lined with ornate Greek houses, visiting centuries-old monasteries, and enjoying a meal in a cozy courtyard restaurant.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about Mustafapasa Village, including top attractions, must-visit historical sites, and local tips to help you make the most of your trip.
The History of Mustafapasa Village
Dating back to the 9th century, Mustafapasa—originally known as Sinasos—has a rich and diverse history. The village is home to around 200 registered historical buildings from the Byzantine, Ottoman, and early Republican periods, reflecting its deep cultural heritage.
Before the population exchange of 1924, Mustafapasa was a wealthy Greek Orthodox settlement, known for its wine production and medicinal trade. At its peak, the village had around 700 stone mansions, built by prosperous Greek merchants. However, with the population exchange, the Greek residents were relocated to Greece, and Turkish families were settled in their place.
Following this change, stone craftsmanship flourished in Mustafapasa, with architects believed to have come from the Mardin and Syrian border. The resemblance between the elaborate stone houses in Mardin and those in Mustafapasa has strengthened this belief.
Today, Mustafapasa is a protected heritage site, officially recognized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The village was opened to tourism in 1981, and visitors can still explore its well-preserved 93 houses, 30 historic churches, and chapels, making it an important cultural landmark in Cappadocia.
Where Did Mustafapasa Get Its Name?
According to legend, the village was named after Seyyid Mustafa Pasha, a high-ranking Ottoman official. During his time, he funded the construction of fountains, helping to solve the village’s water shortage problem. As a result, the village became known as Mustafapasa in honor of his contributions.
Top Things to Do & See in Mustafapasa Village
Mustafapasa, formerly known as Sinasos, is one of the most charming and historically rich villages in Cappadocia. With its well-preserved Greek architecture, historic churches, hidden monasteries, and scenic hiking trails, this village offers a peaceful and authentic experience away from the more touristy areas.
Whether you’re exploring ancient churches, visiting a one-of-a-kind doll museum, or hiking through breathtaking valleys, Mustafapasa is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Visit Chez Ismail – The Most Welcoming Gift Shop in Town
✔ Located at the entrance of Mustafapasa, this unique souvenir shop is a favorite stop for visitors.
✔ Run by the friendly and hospitable Ismail, who loves to share stories about the area.
✔ Pick up locally crafted gifts and keepsakes to take home.
Location: Village entrance
Explore Mehmet Şakirpaşa Madrasa – A Historic Ottoman Monument
✔ Built in 1899, this is Mustafapasa’s most important Ottoman-era structure.
✔ The building now serves as Cappadocia Vocational School.
✔ Across the madrasa, visit Cami-i Kebir Mosque (1601) and Sheikh Ali & Sipahi Mosques.
Location: Mustafapasa Square
Discover St. Nicholas Monastery – A Hidden Gem of Cappadocia
✔ One of the most impressive historical sites in Mustafapasa.
✔ Partially carved into rock and partly masonry-built, though much of it is ruined today.
✔ Worth a visit for its ancient architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Location: Near Mustafapasa Square
Admire Constantine Helena Church – A Beautiful Greek Orthodox Church
✔ Built in 1729, this well-preserved basilica-style church is open to visitors.
✔ Dedicated to Emperor Constantine and his mother, Helena.
✔ Features intricate Greek inscriptions and traditional frescoes.
Location: Close to Mustafapasa Square
See St. Basil’s Church – A Historic Rock-Cut Church
✔ Located near Bey Creek Valley, carved from rock in the 19th century.
✔ Inside, you’ll find frescoes of saints, apostles, and St. Yuannis.
✔ A peaceful and less crowded historical site.
Location: Near Bey Creek Valley
Visit St. Basil’s Chapel – A Unique Double-Nave Chapel
✔ Located 2 km west of Mustafapasa, this chapel dates back centuries.
✔ Features a flat ceiling, rectangular architecture, and a large cross motif.
✔ Decorated with geometric patterns and Maltese crosses.
Location: 2 km west of Mustafapasa
Explore the Cappadocia Museum of Art & History (Doll Museum)
✔ A one-of-a-kind private museum housed in a 150-year-old mansion.
✔ Showcases over 2,000 handmade dolls dressed in traditional Turkish costumes.
✔ Also features historical wall paintings, star-shaped windows, and antique doors.
Location: Yukarı Mah. Gazi Str. No:6, Mustafapasa
☎ Tel: +90 384 353 52 21
Hike Through Gomeda Valley – The “Small Ihlara”
✔ A breathtaking valley west of Mustafapasa, known for its rock-cut houses, churches, and shelters.
✔ Features a river, tunnels, dovecotes, and caves, giving it the nickname “Devil’s Creek”.
✔ The 1.5 km hiking trail leads to Uzengi Valley, forming a 6 km scenic route.
Location: West of Mustafapasa
Visit Asmalı Konak (Old Greek House) – A Famous Film Location
✔ A beautiful 19th-century Greek mansion turned into a hotel and restaurant.
✔ Known for featuring in the popular Turkish TV series “Asmalı Konak”.
✔ Offers authentic Turkish meals in a stunning historic setting.
Location: Mustafapasa Village
Visiting Mustafapasa for Several Hours: Our Best Itinerary
If you have just a few hours, here’s how to make the most of your time in this charming village.
⏳ 0:00 – 0:30 | Walk Through the Village & Admire Greek Architecture
✔ Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with elegant Greek stone houses.
✔ Stop by historic mansions with beautiful facades and intricate carvings.
✔ Feel the blend of Greek and Ottoman influences that shaped the village’s history.
Location: Village center
⏳ 0:30 – 1:00 | Visit Constantine & Helena Church
✔ One of the most significant Greek Orthodox churches in Cappadocia, built in 1729.
✔ Admire the impressive frescoes and religious inscriptions inside.
✔ Learn about the village’s Greek heritage before the 1924 population exchange.
Location: Near the village square
⏳ 1:00 – 1:30 | Explore the Cappadocia Museum of Art & History (Doll Museum)
✔ Discover over 2,000 handmade dolls from Turkey and around the world.
✔ See traditional Cappadocian handicrafts, historical artifacts, and murals.
✔ The museum is housed in a 150-year-old Greek mansion, adding to its charm.
Location: Yukarı Mah. Gazi Str. No:6, Mustafapasa
☎ Tel: +90 384 353 52 21
⏳ 1:30 – 2:00 | Coffee or Lunch in a Historic Setting
✔ Take a break at a local café or restaurant in a restored Greek house.
✔ Enjoy a Turkish coffee, tea, or a traditional meal.
✔ Best options: Old Greek House Restaurant (famous for its authentic ambiance) or Şakir Usta Restaurant (great local dishes).
Location: Village center
⏳ 2:00 – 2:30 | Quick Stop at St. Nicholas Monastery (Optional)
✔ Explore the rock-cut monastery, partly built into the cliffs.
✔ Though partially ruined, it’s a fascinating historical site worth seeing.
✔ A quiet, less-visited alternative to other Cappadocian monasteries.
Location: Short walk from the main square
⏳ 2:30 – 3:00 | Walk Towards Gomeda Valley (Optional)
✔ If you have extra time, take a short nature walk towards Gomeda Valley.
✔ Known as “Little Ihlara,” it features cave dwellings, hidden churches, and scenic hiking trails.
✔ A great spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Location: Trailhead near Mustafapasa
How to Get to Mustafapasa Village
Getting to Mustafapasa Village is easy and accessible, whether you’re traveling by car, taxi, or local bus.
Located just 6 km from Ürgüp, this historic Greek village offers a peaceful retreat with stunning stone architecture, ancient churches, and charming local cafés.
Distance from nearby towns:
✔ Ürgüp: ~6 km (~10 minutes)
✔ Göreme: ~13 km (~20 minutes)
✔ Üçhisar: ~16 km (~25 minutes)
✔ Avanos: ~18 km (~30 minutes)
Here’s how to get to Mustafapasa from different towns in Cappadocia:
From Urgup (Closest town to Mustafapasa)
✔ By Car: A quick 10-minute drive via D302 road. Rental cars and taxis are available in Ürgüp.
✔ By Bus: Local dolmuş minibuses operate between Ürgüp and Mustafapasa throughout the day. Catch one at the Ürgüp bus station.
From Goreme
✔ By Car: A 20-minute drive via Göreme-Ürgüp road, passing through scenic Cappadocian landscapes.
✔ By Bus: Take a dolmuş from Göreme to Ürgüp, then transfer to a local minibus heading to Mustafapasa.
From Uchisar
✔ By Car: A 25-minute drive via Nevşehir-Göreme road, passing through Göreme and Ürgüp.
✔ By Bus: Take a bus from Üçhisar to Ürgüp, then switch to a local minibus to Mustafapasa.
From Avanos
✔ By Car: A 30-minute drive via Avanos-Ürgüp road.
✔ By Bus: Take a bus from Avanos to Ürgüp, then transfer to a minibus heading to Mustafapasa.
Looking for more to explore? Pair your trip to Mustafapasa with a hike through Gomeda Valley or a visit to the Cappadocia Museum of Art & History!
