In Güzelyurt, church architecture and landscape come together in one particular place: Kilise Cami stands in the center, and Manastır Valley begins at the church. This brings architectural history and a designated protected landscape into direct contact. The houses and the routes described also offer further perspectives on the town.

Kilise Cami: Architectural History and Transformation

Kilise Cami, also called Aziz Gregorius Kilisesi, is located in the center of Güzelyurt. It was built in 385 on the orders of Emperor Theodosius for the scholar Aziz Gregorius Theologos, who came from Nenezi, in the shape of an enclosed cross. Aziz Gregorius Kilisesi is one of Cappadocia’s earliest Christian buildings.

When the church was converted into a mosque, its bell tower was transformed into a minaret. A component from the apse also changed its function: the wooden iconostasis, painted with plant-based dyes, was moved and installed as a mihrab. The transformation thus affected both the tower and the religious furnishing from the apse area. Those interested in architecture can explore the building’s history from different perspectives through these details.

Manastır Valley: Landscape and History

Manastır Valley is located in the center of Güzelyurt and begins at Kilise Cami. It is approximately five kilometers long and is designated as an urban, natural, and archaeological protected area. It is also an archaeological site and is now a popular trekking area. Vineyards, volcanic tuff layers, and vividly colored rocks characterize the landscape; clear traces point to the Roman and Byzantine periods. Nature and history stand side by side here, offering two different perspectives on the same valley.

One described hike runs approximately four kilometers from Kömürlü Kilisesi to Sivrihisar Fortress, then continues to Kızıl Kilise. This sequence makes the fortress a specific stop along the way to the church. Since trail conditions can change, it is advisable to check them for the latest information before setting out.

The underground spring of Ayazma is located beside Kilise Cami. Access is via a staircase with 35 steps. If you plan to visit, it is best to check current accessibility in advance.

Greek Houses and Routes

The Greek houses reveal another architectural side of Güzelyurt: they are partly carved into the rock, have decorated façades, and are considered some of the finest examples of Cappadocian architecture. The roofs also have a distinctive feature, as they incorporate an arch system. Taken together, rock carving, façade decoration, and roof construction are distinct architectural aspects of the town, alongside the history of Kilise Cami.

Two routes offer further perspectives over longer distances. The first starts and ends in Güzelyurt, is 43 kilometers long, and is of moderate difficulty. It includes Kilise Cami, Ilısu, Ihlara Valley, Belisırma, Selime, Yüksek Kilise, and Güzelyurt Reservoir. The second also starts and ends in Güzelyurt, is 57 kilometers long, and is likewise moderately difficult; its stops include Manastır Valley and Cami Kilise.

Compared directly, the routes have the same starting point, destination, and stated difficulty level, but differ in length. The first is 14 kilometers shorter. This lets you compare the two options using specific shared features and their respective distances. Check current route conditions before setting out.

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

Return to the main travel overview: Aksaray.