SELIME MONASTERY

ACTIVITY DETAIL

Located in the Güzelyurt district of Aksaray province, Selime Monastery is known as the largest monastery in Cappadocia and is situated at the end of Ihlara Valley. Carved into massive rock formations, Selime Monastery impresses visitors with its monumental architecture, large courtyards, and towering structures. Tourists visiting the area encounter unique fairy chimneys as well as the remains of churches, chapels, and monks' rooms reflecting Orthodox Christian heritage. Selime Monastery bears traces of many civilizations, including Roman, Hittite, Byzantine, and Ottoman cultures, representing Cappadocia's rich historical layers. Inside the monastery, there is a cathedral-sized church, kitchen areas, and living quarters. Today, Selime Monastery stands out as an important cultural and historical destination within Cappadocia tourism.