In ancient geography, Cappadocia or Capadocia, Turkish Kapadokya (from Persian: Katpatuka meaning "the land of beautiful horses"[citation needed], was the name of the extensive inland district of Asia Minor (modern Turkey). The name continued to be used in western sources and in the Christian tradition throughout history and is still widely used as an international tourism concept to define a region of exceptional natural wonders characterized by fairy chimneys and a unique historical and cultural heritage. The term, as used in tourism, roughly corresponds to present-day Nevþehir Province of Turkey.

It is impossible to define Cappadocia's limits with any real accuracy. In the time of Herodotus, the Cappadocians are supposed to have occupied the whole region from Mount Taurus to the vicinity of the Euxine (Black Sea). Cappadocia, in this sense, was bounded in the south by the chain of Mount Taurus, to the east by the Euphrates, to the north by Pontus, and to the west vaguely by the great salt lake, Lake Tuz, in Central Anatolia. But Strabo, the only ancient author who gives any circumstantial account of the country, greatly exaggerated its dimensions. It is now believed that 250 miles in length by less than 150 in breadth is a more realistic appraisal of Cappadocia's extension.

Avanos is a town and a district of Nevþehir Province of Turkey, located 18 km north of Nevþehir, the capital city of the province. It is situated within the historic and touristic region of Cappadocia.

The old city of Avanos, whose name in ancient times was Venessa overlooks the longest river of Turkey, the Kýzýlýrmak (Red River), which also separates Avanos from the rest of Cappadocia.

The most famous historical feature of Avanos, which is still relevant and very visible today, is its production of earthenware pottery. The ceramic trade in this district and its countless pottery factories date right back to the Hittites, and the ceramic clay from the red silt of the Kýzýlýrmak has always been used. It is a popular destination because of its attractive old town with cobbled streets, and superb views over the river.