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Cappadocia's Hidden Valleys Route

Gülşehir

Gülşehir's image
Situated 20 km to Nevşehir city center, Gülşehir is located on the southern banks of the Kızılırmak (Red River). Today’s “Rose City” as in translation of Gülşehir was once known as ‘Zoropassos’ and later as ‘Arapsun’. Public works of the kind carried out by Damat Ibrahim Pasha in Nevşehir were realised in Gülşehir by the Ottoman Grand Vizier Karavezir Mehmet Seyyid Pasha, who had a compound consisting of a mosque, a theological school and a fountain built in the town, which consisted of only 30 households. Two-storey Church of St. John, also known as Karşı Kilise (the Opposite Church) which is situated right at the entrance of Gülşehir, houses a wine cellar, graves, water channels and living quarters on the lower floor, and a church decorated with biblical scenes on the upper floor. According to the inscription on the apse, the church is dated to 1212. Scenes from the life of Jesus and the Bible are in the form of friezes within the borders. Yellow and brown have been used on a black background. On the niche vault and on the sides, floral and geometrical patterns were used. On the west and south walls the Last Judgment can be found, a scene rarely depicted in Cappadocian churches.

The Haji Bektash Veli Complex

The Haji Bektash Veli Complex's image
The Haji Bektash Veli Complex is divided into three courtyards, each containing various important structures such as fountains, mansions, and tombs. The Father's House, dating back to the 13th to 16th centuries, includes the tomb of Haji Bektash Veli and several other significant areas. The Balım Sultan Tomb within the complex houses symbolic coffins of Balım Sultan and Kalender Çelebi. The Hacıbektaş Archaeology and Ethnography Museum showcases archaeological artifacts and items from the Sulucakarahöyük Mound excavations, along with coins and ethnographic displays highlighting Ottoman-era items. The Hacıbektaş Atatürk Museum is housed in a building where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk stayed for one night in 1919 and features ethnographic works on display for the public since 2001. It has been on Türkiye's UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List since 2012.

Kızılırmak Riverside

Kızılırmak Riverside's image
Discover the serene grace and mesmerizing scenery of the Kızılırmak Riverside located in the quaint city of Nevşehir, Türkiye. Just imagine strolling along the banks of the longest river in Türkiye, the enchanting Kızılırmak, soaking up the quiet, tranquil ambiance that emanates from the gently flowing waters. This beautiful treasure, hidden in Nevşehir, opens up a world where the charm of natural beauty and the rustic appeal of the city meet. Apart from offering a peaceful respite, the Kızılırmak Riverside is also home to an array of diverse flora and fauna that make it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Experience a picturesque sunset on the Kızılırmak Riverside, painting the sky with hues of gold and crimson, while the river reflects a captivating image of the celestial spectacle. Amble on to one of the riverside cafes, savor a cup of authentic Türkish çay(tea) to wind down your day. A visit to Nevşehir, Türkiye, would be incomplete without a relaxing day at the Kızılırmak Riverside. It's a place where the universe seems to hold its breath for a while, and the only sounds you hear are the gentle whispers of the wind and the soft fluttering of the river waters against the banks. Embrace the compelling charms of Türkiye as you venture around Kızılırmak Riverside, an oasis of tranquility tucked away in the heart of Nevşehir. Set the journey of a lifetime in motion, where every path leads to a new discovery, every moment brimming with the extraordinary essence of natural beauty. Come and lose yourself in the mesmerizing allure of Kızılırmak Riverside.

St Jean Church

St Jean Church's image
Immerse yourself in the mystical echoes of the past at a remarkable location; the Saint Jean Church in Nevşehir, Türkiye. This awe-inspiring historical treasure is not your typical church; it's a sanctuary carved into the soft volcanic rock, a unique testament to Eastern Roman era architecture. This ancient amphitheater of devotion offers an uncanny sense of serenity with its hushed stillness, reverberating with the whispers of bygone centuries. Saint Jean Church, enveloped by the fairy-like landscape of Cappadocia, is swathed in mesmerizing frescoes that tell tales of faith and dedication. The vividly vibrant colors preserved through countless decades create a captivating spectacle that transforms your visit into an inspiring journey through time. Admire the ornate touches and the intricacy of the frescoes representing biblical scenes—a visual narrative painted many centuries ago. Echoing Nevşehir's rich cultural background, Saint Jean Church is a pilgrimage for history enthusiasts desiring a deeper understanding of Türkiye's multicultural roots. Nestled amidst a land of exotic beauty and historical marvels, the church encapsulates a precious part of Christian history, reflected through its intricate engravings, compelling frescoes, and fascinating architecture, which continue to stand the test of time. Every step inside the timeworn walls of Saint Jean Church is a step back in time, offering a truly exclusive and enticing adventure. Visiting this hidden gem should definitely find a place on your itinerary as you embark on your fascinating journey through Türkiye.