Avanos

Avanos is a town and district of Nevşehir Province in central Turkey. It lies in the Cappadocia region along the Kızılırmak River and forms part of a landscape noted for its fairy chimneys and rock-cut architecture.

The town has long been known for pottery; artisans use red clay from the river to produce vases, bowls, and other wares. The pottery tradition dates to ancient times and remains central to Avanos's economy and identity. Many workshops in the historic town center offer demonstrations and hands-on experiences for visitors.

The historic center features Ottoman-era houses and a waterfront along the river. The area around Avanos is part of Cappadocia, famous for its geological formations and many cave churches and valleys, which contribute to the region’s tourist appeal.

A notable cultural site is the Hair Museum of Avanos, created by a local artist; it houses thousands of hair samples and is a well-known tourist attraction.

Administratively, Avanos is the seat of Avanos district in Nevşehir Province. The local economy centers on pottery crafts and tourism, supplemented by agriculture and services.