Çanlı (Bell) Church Ruins and Caves Located close to Aksaray, the Çanlı Church Ruins and Caves are perched on rugged hills with a stunning view of Mount Hasan. The site is home to 25 intricate rock-carved structures and a grand church, offering breathtaking views, numerous cave rooms, and several churches, making it a must-see destination. The church was founded in the 900s and reached its height of significance during the late 11th century. However, its decline began after the arrival of the Seljuk Turks in the region during the 1100s. The Çanlı Church stands as one of the largest and most well-preserved stone churches in the area, featuring stunning architecture and a historical context that sets it apart from any other building. The vast cross-in-square nave (9m x 9m), complete with 3 slits in the apses, is part of the original Byzantine structure. The enormous central dome was supported by four pillars, each measuring 4.5 meters in width and 16 meters in height. The tall 12-sided drum had four slits for interior lighting and was topped with a flat cap. Sadly, the dome collapsed due to an earthquake in the 1950s. The surviving frescoes are of exceptional quality, illustrating miracle scenes from Christ's life. These artworks were created about 200 years after the church's initial construction. In 1250 AD, a second parish church (paraekklesion) was built on the northern side, but it was later buried by a landslide. The Çanlı Church area is home to over 25 substantial rock-carved settlements, stretching across a length of one kilometer. These separate yet connected dwellings serve as isolated homes that provide shelter to their residents. The intricate architecture indicates that the area was once inhabited by a wealthy community, likely associated with Akhısar, which can be seen 4 kilometers away. The courtyards were opulent, with an elite guard offering exceptional care, along with high-end horse stables designed for thoroughbred horses. This suggests that the Çanlı Church and its surrounding area were not a monastery, but instead a residential zone. If you have any questions or inquiries about the Çanlı (Bell) Church Ruins, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or simply message us via Whatsapp, and we will respond promptly.