Ihlara

Ihlara, commonly referred to as Ihlara Valley, is a canyon in central Turkey within the Cappadocia region. It lies in Aksaray Province, in the Guzelyurt district, along the Melendiz River. The gorge stretches roughly 14 kilometers, running from the village of Ihlara to the area around Selime Monastery, with walls that rise up to about 100 meters in places. The landscape is characterized by the soft volcanic tuff of the region, carved over centuries by the river.

The valley is notable for its extensive concentration of rock-cut churches, monasteries, and dwellings carved into the canyon walls. Many of these cave churches contain early Byzantine frescoes dating from the 9th to the 13th centuries, reflecting a long history of Christian monastic communities in the area. The site provides evidence of agricultural activity and settlement adapted to the riverine environment.

Today, Ihlara Valley is a popular destination for hikers and visitors seeking a combination of natural beauty and historical heritage. Walking routes follow the river, with numerous cave churches and scenic viewpoints along the way. Local facilities in nearby villages offer refreshments, and several trail segments are well-marked for day trips from larger Cappadocian centers. Accessibility is primarily by road, with common starting points in Nevşehir, Göreme, or Aksaray, making Ihlara a common addition to itineraries exploring Cappadocia and the surrounding region.

The valley supports diverse riparian vegetation, including willows and poplars, and provides habitat for various bird species and small mammals. Its combination of natural scenery and medieval architecture makes Ihlara a distinctive and enduring waypoint in central Anatolia.