Goreme Attractions

Outside the complex stands the Tokali Kilise (Church of the Buckle), the largest church in Göreme, which was restored during the 1960s. Of particular interest are the main nave with barrel arcading ninth century frescoes in a simple, "provincial" style, the more recent transept with three apses and 11th century frescoes in "metropolitan" style. The frescoes of the twelve apostles, the saints and scenes from the life of Jesus (963-969 and 11th century respectively) are also noteworthy. There is a crypt underneath the nave.

The Elmali Kilise (Church with the Apple) is the smallest of the cruciform-domed churches in Göreme (temporarily closed for restoration). It contains some early 11th century frescoes showing the prophets, saints and scenes from the life of Jesus, including Jesus and the world.

Karanlik Kilise (Dark Church) forms a part of the monastery and includes a refectory with a double apse and a table and chairs carved from the stone. The 11th century cruciform dome is borne by four pillars and ranks among the finest in the Göreme valley. The walls and dome are adorned with scenes from the Bible.

Half of the village of Göreme itself consists of cave dwellings. It is here that three deep valleys lined with tuff chimneys meet. In the El Nazar ravine stand the El Nazar Kilisesi, a chapel now badly damaged after an earthquake and the Sakli Kilise (Hidden Church) with a nave and three apses. The latter houses some 12th century frescoes depicting Mary and the life of Jesus. In the 12th century monks from Göreme withdrew here when they were unable to find suitable premises.

The name Carikli Kilise (Sandal Church) derives from the footprint at the bottom of the Ascension fresco, said to be an exact replica of the same feature in the Church of the Ascension in Jerusalem. The four Evangelists, the nativity and the crucifixion can be identified on the fresco.