The Cappadocia region, situated on a volcanic zone that is unique in the world geographically and topographically, has poorly defined boundaries. Today, it primarily encompasses the provinces of Nevşehir, Aksaray, Niğde, Kayseri, Kırşehir, and Yozgat. Ürgüp, Göreme, Avanos, Gülşehir, Ihlara, Derinkuyu, and Acıgöl, however, constitute what is more commonly known as “Central Cappadocia,” an area where tourism is concentrated and which is renowned for its unique landscape of volcanic rock formations known locally as “fairy chimneys.” Its location, fertile soil, and sheltered natural habitats have allowed the region to host numerous civilizations throughout history, adding cultural richness alongside its natural wealth.

In the heart of Cappadocia lies Mustafapaşa (Sinasos), one of the region’s least spoiled settlements, a unique village showcasing historical buildings that blend seamlessly with their surroundings. While Mustafapaşa might appear as just a “small Anatolian town” on a map, a deeper exploration reveals a remarkably rich history. Located approximately 30 km southeast of Nevşehir and about 5 km south of Ürgüp, this impressive settlement is blessed by nature’s dazzling beauty, while its rich history and culture give it a special place in the region. Following the population exchange (1924) under the Treaty of Lausanne, approximately six hundred Greek families, constituting the majority of the village’s population, emigrated to Greece, while around three hundred Muslim Turkish families, forced to migrate from Thessaloniki, settled in what is now known as Mustafapaşa.

As seen in documents, records, and decrees from 1476, 1879, 1924, and 1927, the village was previously known as Sinasos (Sinesos/n), and in medieval sources, it was referred to as “Asuna.” Mustafapaşa holds great significance as perhaps the settlement that left the most mark on Anatolia after the population exchange. Not only in the 19th century, but even at the time of the exchange, the town, where the Greek population was more concentrated, saw the construction of many magnificent houses and new churches built by the Greeks.

Before the Greeks left these lands, this charming settlement was photographed in detail under the leadership of Serafim Rizos, a member of one of the village’s most prominent families. These photographs, later included in the book “Sinasos” edited by Evangelia Balta, not only help us visualize the village, especially in the 19th century, but also greatly contribute to the preservation of this valuable cultural heritage. With its churches, mansions, madrasas, and mosques still accessible today, Mustafapaşa is a concrete example of how people of different faiths lived together in peace and harmony for hundreds of years, creating magnificent settlements and forming a shared culture.

Cappadocia University has the privilege of beginning its educational life in this village with its unique cultural heritage as Cappadocia Vocational School in the 2005–2006 academic year…