Avanos, a small town of local charm and scenic wonders, sits on the edge of the Cappadocian desert. Its climbing hills and narrow streets make for picturesque vistas at any time of the day. Sweeping views of barren plateaus and far-off volcanoes are accented by the colors of the town. Fresh flowers, crawling vineyards, pastel houses and festive decorations make each area a work of art.

The name Avanos, comes from the Latin word venasa, and refers to the reddish clay and silt that are found around the settlement. Legendary craftsmanship and hospitality are characteristics of this friendly town. While strolling through the weekly bazaar or local shops, it is not unusual to be offered some "cay" (tea). Carpets and kilims are woven locally in nearby villages and displayed in colorful storefronts lining the way under the sunny sky. One can also find gold and silver trinkets being hand-pushed in carts by local vendors. But Avanos's main claim to fame is its high quality, hand-made pottery. Teapots, bowls, jars and jugs have been thrown and crafted along the cobblestone streets for well over 5,000 years. One can still find pottery crafted in the Hittite fashion as the modern Turks connect to the past.

Through the quaint town of Avanos flows the Kizilirmak River, as it has for thousands of years. Down from the nearby mountain peaks and winding along the Cappadocia desert, the Kizilirmak runs for 1355 km, and boasts the title of the longest river in Turkey. Known as the "Marasantiya" to the Hittites, this body of water has been a celebrated source of life in a dry climate for thousands of years.

Avanos, a city of historic charm and friendly smiles, is a treasure amidst the Cappadocian desert. From its central location, one can explore the underground cities and intriguing rock formations that make Anatolia history so unique. Yet, after a long day of climbing and hiking in the dry and dusty desert, Avanos and the Kizilirmak River stand as an oasis to refresh a weary soul.