Ihlara Valley
It is a long and narrow valley with many rock churches and monasteries. Ihlara Valley, is a 14 km long canyon that was formed by the Melendiz River. It is known for its natural beauty, as well as its historical significance as a former home to many early Christian communities. The valley is home to several churches and monasteries that were carved into the rock cliffs, and it is a popular destination for hiking and sightseeing. These churches and monasteries were built between the 9th and 13th centuries and are important examples of early Christian architecture. Some of the most notable churches in the valley include the Ağaçaltı, Yılanlı, and Kirkdamatli churches.
Visitors can hike or take a boat trip through the valley to explore the ancient structures and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The valley is a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing. Visitors can walk along the Melendiz River and explore the many rock-cut churches and monasteries that are found along the canyon walls.
Ihlara Valley, which is 18 kilometers long, 150 meters deep and 200 meters wide, has thousands of living spaces, and unlike other canyons, it is the largest canyon in the world where people lived in the past. The Melendiz River, which shapes and gives life to the Ihlara Valley, is the main source of life here. Hundreds of churches and rock-carved places created by the easy carving of the rocks surrounding the valley have made the valley one of the most important centers of culture and civilization in the world.
Where is the Ihlara Valley ?
Ihlara Valley, located within the borders of Güzelyurt District of Aksaray Province, has an important place among the canyons in the world. Please click for the location on the map.
How Was Ihlara Valley Formed?
The Ihlara Valley was formed as a result of thousands of years of erosion by the Melendiz Stream, which moves over the collapsed area after the tectonic uplifts and the eruption of the Hasandağı volcano.
History of Ihlara?
There are frescoed churches carved into the rocks in the Ihlara Valley. MS IV. They were created until the turn of the century. These frescoed churches and settlements, which were created by the excavation of rocks since the first years of Christianity, continue from Ihlara to Selime. Examples of these are the Churches of Eğritaş, Ağaçaltı, Kokar, Pürenliseki and Yılanlı.
Pillared Church (976-1025)
Pürenli Seki Church 10-12th century
Saint George (1283-1295)
Dark Castle Church 10th-11th centuries
11th century: Ala Church, Çanlı Church (Akhisar), Karagedik Church
Photos of Ihlara
Very nice photos that may interest you, please click.
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