The Goreme Open Air Museum is a captivating historical site that transports visitors back to the early days of Christianity. Nestled in the heart of Cappadocia, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Christian communities who sought refuge from Roman persecution. The museum complex, which originally housed 34 churches, now features 9 remaining churches, each with its unique charm and history.
Cappadocia Churches : Monastic Life in Cappadocia
Upon entering the Goreme Open Air Museum, visitors are greeted by the impressive nunnery and monastery complex. These hand-carved dwellings, which include living areas, sleeping quarters, kitchens, dining rooms, and storage spaces, showcase the monastic lifestyle of the nuns and monks who once called this place home. The communal village setting highlights the importance of unity and shared faith during these challenging times.
Chapel of Saint Basil
Adjacent to the nunnery lies the Chapel of Saint Basil (also called Snake or Serpent Church), a simple yet significant structure dedicated to the patron saint of Cappadocia. The chapel’s interior features Orthodox cultural depictions, including images of the Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus, St. Theodore, St. Basil, and two unidentified female saints. The chapel also serves as a final resting place for numerous monks, a testament to their unwavering faith.
Goreme Open Air Museum, Cappadocia, Turkey
Apple Church : A Visual Feast
The Apple Church (Elmali Church) is a stunning example of religious artistry within the Goreme Open Air Museum. Its closed cross-shaped design, adorned with intricate paintings from the 4th and 11th centuries, showcases scenes such as Deesis, Nativity, Adoration of the Magi, Baptism, Raising of Lazarus, Transfiguration, Entry into Jerusalem, Last Supper, Betrayal of Judas, Way of the Cross, Crucifixion, Entombment, Anastasis, Women at the Tomb, Ascension, Hospitality of Abraham, and Three Young Men in the Fiery Furnace.
Mysterious Beauty of Saint Barbara Chapel
The enigmatic Saint Barbara Chapel captivates visitors with its unique paintings depicting various religious and abstract figures. The composition of the paintings, which resemble the unusual style of the iconoclastic periods, adds to the chapel’s allure and fascination. The meaning behind some of the images, such as the three triangular-shaped trees and the lance heads, remains a mystery, further enhancing the chapel’s appeal.
Snake Church : A Hidden Gem
The small yet mesmerizing Snake Church features a rectangular layout and captivating paintings of Saint George and Theodore battling dragons, as well as images of Saint Helena and Constantine holding crosses. Other depictions include saints Onuphrius behind palm trees, and Saint Thomas and Basil. This hidden gem is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.
Dark Church : A Time Capsule of Vibrant Art
The Dark Church (Karanlik Kilise) is a well-preserved treasure in Cappadocia, boasting vibrant colors and numerous biblical depictions. The limited natural light that enters the church has helped preserve the paintings, which include scenes such as Deesis, Annunciation, Journey to Bethlehem, Nativity, Adoration of the Magi, Baptism, Raising of Lazarus, Transfiguration, Entry into Jerusalem, Last Supper, Betrayal of Judas, Crucifixion, Anastasis, Women at the Tomb, Ascension, the Hospitality of the Prophet Abraham, and Three Young Men in the Fiery Furnace.
Dark Church (Karanlık Kilise)
Sandals Church
The two-story Sandals Church (Carikli Church) offers a fascinating insight into Cappadocia’s religious history. The lower level features a dining area with a stunning engraving of The Last Supper, while the upper level houses a church area dating back to the 13th century. The central apse boasts a well-preserved figure of the Deesis, featuring Jesus holding an open book with the inscription “I am the light of the world, who follows me will not be left in misery.”
Buckle Church : A Visual Journey Through Jesus’ Life
The Buckle Church (Tokali Church) is considered one of the most beautiful and oldest churches in the area, with four sections including the old church, a new chapel, a lower church or cemetery, and storage. The paintings on the old church, dating back to the 10th century, depict the entire life of Jesus in chronological order, possibly serving as a visual teaching tool for Christianity.
The New Church
The New Church, dating back to the late 10th and early 11th century, is the only church in Cappadocia where light blue frescoes can be seen. These colors come from Lapis Lazuli stone, which was traded through the Silk Road from Afghanistan. The frescoes in this section include stories about St. Peter and many paintings from the life of Jesus, in a more modern style.
Goreme Open Air Museum – Hera Cave Suites
Discover the Wonders of Goreme Open Air Museum with Our Guided Tours
For those interested in visiting the Goreme Open Air Museum, we invite you to explore this enchanting historical site with our expertly guided tours. Our Red Tour Cappadocia offers a comprehensive experience at a price of 58 Euros per person. This package includes a professional English-speaking guide, entrance tickets to the museum, transportation and 4 other places to visit in Cappadocia . Immerse yourself in the captivating history and breathtaking beauty of Cappadocia with this unforgettable tour. For more information and booking, visit Red Tour Cappadocia.
For a more personalized experience, consider our Private Cappadocia Tour. With a customizable itinerary tailored to your interests. For 125 Euros this tour allows you to explore the Goreme Open Air Museum and other highlights of Cappadocia at your own pace. To learn more about this unique opportunity visit Private Cappadocia Tour.
Don’t miss the opportunity to uncover the hidden gems of the Goreme Open Air Museum and the surrounding Cappadocia region. Book your tour today and embark on a journey through time that you’ll never forget!
