Güzelyurt: Monastery Valley, Churches and Rock Architecture

Güzelyurt combines a striking valley landscape with a complex architectural history. At its centre are Kilise Cami and the beginning of Monastery Valley; there are also houses carved into the rock and routes of very different lengths. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose how to balance architecture, landscape and activity, rather than reducing the town to a single excursion destination.

Monastery Valley: Landscape and History

Monastery Valley lies in the centre of Güzelyurt and begins at Kilise Cami. It is approximately five kilometres long and is designated an urban, natural and archaeological protected area. Vineyards, volcanic tuff layers and colourful rocks shape the landscape. At the same time, the valley bears clear traces of the Roman and Byzantine periods. Nature and history are therefore equally part of the character of this place: those interested in geological formations will find distinctive landscape features in the tuff and rocks; those looking to the past will encounter the named historical periods.

Monastery Valley is now a popular trekking area. The valley’s approximate length gives you an idea of its overall scale; for a hike, use the specific route as your guide. It is therefore helpful to distinguish between a stay focused on landscape and history and a specific route when planning your trip. If you plan to hike, check current conditions before setting out.

Kilise Cami and Güzelyurt’s Architectural History

Kilise Cami, also known as Aziz Gregorius Kilisesi, is located in the centre of Güzelyurt and is one of Cappadocia’s earliest Christian buildings. It was built in 385 on the orders of Emperor Theodosius for the scholar Aziz Gregorius Theologos, who came from Nenezi. Its floor plan is in the form of an enclosed cross. The building thus combines a specifically dated construction and dedication with a clearly described architectural form.

When the church was converted into a mosque, the functions of some of its architectural elements also changed: the bell tower was converted into a minaret. The wooden iconostasis in the apse, painted with plant-based dyes, was moved and made into a mihrab. These details make the different phases of use an essential part of the building’s history. The underground spring Ayazma is also located next to Kilise Cami. A staircase of 35 steps leads down; check current access conditions before visiting.

Güzelyurt’s Rum houses also offer insight into local architecture. Some are carved into the rock and have decorated façades; they are considered some of the finest examples of Cappadocian architecture. An arch system in the roofs is also described. The façade decoration and roof construction are two distinct details to look out for when viewing the historic buildings.

A Hike or a Longer Route?

For a hike, you can cover about four kilometres from Kömürlü Kilisesi to Sivrihisar Fortress and then continue to Kızıl Kilise. The distance given is approximate; the tour description also specifies the order of the destinations. This is a different option from the two routes that begin and end in Güzelyurt and cover considerably longer distances of 43 and 57 kilometres respectively.

The first of these routes passes Kilise Cami, Ilısu, Ihlara Valley, Belisırma, Selime, Yüksek Kilise and Güzelyurt Reservoir. It is 43 kilometres long and has a moderate difficulty rating. The second route is 57 kilometres long, also begins and ends in Güzelyurt, and is likewise rated as moderately difficult; its stops include Monastery Valley and Cami Kilise. At 57 kilometres, the second route is longer than the first, which is 43 kilometres; both are rated as moderately difficult. Route conditions can change, so it is advisable to check them before setting out.

Choose the Right Focus for Your Visit

Monastery Valley is a distinct focus for landscape and trekking; for longer excursions, the stated route distances can help you weigh up your options.

Discover more travel destinations: Sultanhanı, Ortaköy, Ihlara Valley, Aksaray, Harmandalı Belediyesi, Gültepe Köyü, Belisırma.

Back to the main travel overview: Aksaray.