Ihlara Valley

Ihlara Valley in the Güzelyurt district of Aksaray province is a significant archaeological site, being one of the world's notable canyons at 14 kilometers in length and reaching depths of up to 120 meters. Melendiz Stream, passing through the Ihlara Valley, whose name is "Peristremma" in historical sources, creates magnificent and striking beauties throughout the valley by splitting the land in a deep and steep way along the Ihlara Valley. During the early Christian period, it functioned as a religious center with churches and monasteries carved into the rock walls. The valley features stunning natural rock formations and churches adorned with beautiful frescoes depicting biblical stories and religious scenes. Specific churches within the valley, such as Ağaçaltı Church and Kırkdamaltı Church, showcase unique architectural features and frescoes dating back to the 9th-11th centuries, depicting various religious scenes and historical figures.