Selime Monastery - a majestic dimension of multi-level caves or a planet of clay holes?

During my trip to Cappadocia I had the opportunity to visit Selime Monastery, a spectacular site located at the northern end of the Ihlara Valley, about 28 km from Aksaray. This monastery complex, carved directly into the volcanic rock, is the largest in the region and offers a fascinating insight into the religious and architectural history of Cappadocia.
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We were truly amazed standing at its foot because it is such a grandeur of the mighty high rocks, the first attempt to visit its monastery was unsuccessful because upon arriving at the point we got caught in a huge sandstorm that literally made it impossible to be outside the car. So we quickly fled away from sin. The next day the weather was less good, it was cloudy and it was going to rain. But since we firmly decided that we had to conquer this horizon, we went there no matter what, 50tl for parking per day is absolutely a small price. And we set off to climb up.

Also, for some reason, I decided to take a picture of the restroom and tell an interesting nuance about the fact that the entrance fee there is 10 lira in local money, but in dollars it is 1$ and it is 39 lira. But we are locals, you can't separate us. It was immediately clear from my sister's face that the weather promised to be better.

Many interesting wooden paths and steps leading up, plus blue and red arrows beckoned to explore. In some places the height was really significant and I even took a photo in a panorama to show it better. Because even on my lens the whole area did not fit into the frame due to the height. We went through various tunnels, holes, it was all really exciting, like a small child you climb around with inspiration.

My favorite place was at the top there were steps into the ground and I even specially filmed a video of me going down there, the stairs were quite steep and it was even a little slippery but there was a handrail and it was very interesting. So on with the story. The Selime Monastery dates back to the 8th and 9th centuries and served as both a place of worship and a refuge for Byzantine monks.

The main building, a cathedral carved into the rock, is notable for its high vaults, sculpted columns, and wall frescoes, although some have been damaged by time. The frescoes, dating from the 10th and 11th centuries, depict biblical scenes such as the Ascension and the Annunciation.

While exploring the monastery, I discovered the monastic quarters, including cells, a kitchen with an impressive fireplace, churches, shops, and rooms. Secret passages and steep staircases testify to the defensive function of this place, which also served as a fortress against invasions.

The monastery also played an important role in trade, especially during the Seljuk period, serving as a caravanserai for merchants traveling the Silk Road.
Camel caravans could be moored in the monastery’s central courtyard, providing a safe haven for travelers.

The climb to the monastery is a bit challenging, with steep and slippery wooden paths, but the panoramic views from the top are worth it. You can admire the region’s characteristic fairy chimneys, unique cliffs and the Ihlara Valley stretching below.

Next to the monastery is the monumental tomb of Selime Sultan, dating back to the 13th century. The Ihlara Valley itself is a natural wonder with its steep caves, rock-cut churches and the winding course of the Melendiz River. The 14-kilometer hike through the valley offers immersion in a landscape that is both wild and steep-sided.

Upon entering the rock-hewn church, I am immediately enveloped in a solemn and almost sacred atmosphere. The massive columns on both sides of the nave, carved directly from volcanic rock, resemble the columns of an ancient, forgotten palace. Despite the centuries that have passed, they still retain their presence, as if they still carry the memory of those who came here to pray.

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The walls are decorated with frescoes that have faded with time, but biblical symbols can still be distinguished. All around, carved arches open into the black rock, creating an impression of depth and mystery. Light penetrates through small round holes in the ceiling, illuminating the interior with a golden, almost heavenly glow. You really feel that this place was not just a religious space, but a true sanctuary of silence, refuge and spirituality.

The fine dust on the ground, the rough textures of the stone, the carved details on the columns—all are memories of an ancient civilization, restrained but deeply inspired. In conclusion, the visit to the Selime Monastery was an unforgettable experience, although the bright sun came out as soon as I ran out of all my strength for a photo shoot and memory on my phone.

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But all that seems to me is that my shots do not lose their effectiveness and uniqueness of this exceptional place that I was drawn to, as I said earlier, by our engine of progress @olga.maslievich. Selime, as a cultural wealth of Cappadocia, fully deserves an honorable place on your travel list.😊