Cappadocia frescoes are not to be missed. And here is why.
As you approach Göreme Cappadocia, signs of tourism become more frequent. Stalls selling postcards, small souvenir statues, scarves, and all kinds of trinkets fill the scene, along with vendors offering Turkish ice cream. I ascended the hill where the fairy chimneys rise, full of small holes as though invaded by ants.
Cappadocia Frescoes
However, behind these tiny openings lie ancient churches carved into caves. Some feature remarkably well-preserved Cappadocia frescoes, while others display only faint traces of their former beauty.
You might have to wait for your turn to enter, as these sites are always crowded with tourists, and they were never designed to accommodate such large numbers. If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to bring plenty of water and a hat, as there’s little more than rock surrounding you.
Your guide will lead you from one church to the next, and the sheer number of names and Cappadocia frescoes may leave you feeling a bit dizzy. It’s a good idea to grab a Cappadocia guidebook from one of the valley’s many stalls—they’re a handy reference.
Cappadocia Frescoes :: Apple Church
There isn’t enough space here to list all the churches in the valley, but these are a few I visited.
Elmali, or Apple Church, is built from stone and sits atop this open-air museum. The central room is supported by four pillars. Many of the Cappadocia frescoes are well-preserved, while others have faded over time. Christ is depicted on the dome, and the walls illustrate scenes such as the Baptism, Entry into Jerusalem, Last Supper, Crucifixion, and the Betrayal of Judas.
In one fresco, Jesus is shown holding a round object resembling an apple, which led locals to name it the Apple Church. Some researchers believe the object actually represents the globe, symbolizing the world.
Cappadocia Frescoes :: St Barbara Church
One of the most fascinating churches due to its unique frescoes is the Church of Saint Barbara.
Dating back to the 11th century, it features paintings of St. Barbara, St. Michael, and St. Theodore. Alongside these, you’ll find geometric motifs, mythological animals, and various symbolic designs.
The frescoes were painted directly onto the rock using red ochre. Even though the church is entirely carved out of rock, red lines were painted on the walls to give the illusion that it was constructed from cut stones.
View this post on Instagram
The Best View
For the best view of the Göreme Valley, head to Uchisar Cappadocia and its hilltop castle. The town is just 2 kilometers from the village of Avcılar, with the land between them covered in vineyards.
Cappadocia is also renowned for its wine, and many cellars offer wine-tasting experiences. Here, you can purchase local wine as well as a variety of wine-related tools and souvenirs.
Next: AVANOS CAPPADOCIA: SPINNING THE WHEEL OF POTTERY
The full Cappadocia SERIES
PIN IT FOR LATER:
