Cavusin VillagePlaces to Visit in Nevsehir

Cavusin Village is located in a valley that lies between the towns of Avanos and Goreme, a landscape that has expanded gradually over time. In the early 20th century, the village was largely inhabited by Christian Orthodox families. However, in 1924, a mandatory population exchange between Turkey and Greece resulted in significant demographic changes. During this period, all Turkish Muslims living in Greece were required to move to Turkey, while approximately 1.2 million Christians were relocated from Turkey to Greece.

When the Greek immigrants arrived in Cavusin Village, they were settled in the homes that had previously belonged to the departing Greek locals. Yet, because the number of newcomers was smaller than the original population, many homes were left empty. With no one to occupy or maintain them, these abandoned houses eventually deteriorated and crumbled over time, particularly those situated on the edges of the village.

In the 1950s, a devastating landslide triggered by falling rocks forced authorities to evacuate Cavusin Village for safety reasons. The government supported the relocation by offering financial aid to build new homes in a more secure location on the nearby plateau. As a result, the once-bustling village was left deserted, its silent, empty homes now standing as powerful symbols of its storied past and the historic population exchange that reshaped the region.

The homes in Cavusin Village are uniquely built into the area's natural rock formations. Over time, exposure to wind, rain, and seismic activity has worn down many of these cave-like dwellings. Adventurous visitors can hike a meandering path to the top of the village, where they are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Red Valley and Uchisar Castle. At the summit lies the remarkable Saint John the Baptist Church, dating back to the 5th century. As the second-oldest church in Cappadocia, it features a rare and striking fresco illustrating "The Murder of St. John", which has endured despite repeated attempts to erase it.

Another remarkable place to visit in Cavusin Village is the Church of Nicophoras Phocas, regarded as one of the most well-preserved churches in all of Cappadocia. It was commissioned by Byzantine Emperor Nicophoras Phocas during his journey through Cappadocia in the 960s. Built around 965, the church is adorned with vibrant frescoes portraying scenes from the life of Jesus, including a notable depiction of Nicophoras and his family.

The interior of Nicophoras Phocas Church features a range of detailed religious scenes, such as the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Proof of the Virgin, the Flight into Egypt, Joseph’s Dream II, the Blessing and Mission of the Apostles, the Adoration of the Magi, the Massacre of the Innocents, the Pursuit of Elizabeth, the Killing of Zacharias, the Entry into Jerusalem, the Raising of Lazarus, the Healing of the Blind Man, the Descent from the Cross, and the Women at the Tomb. A striking image of Emperor Nicophoras Phocas and his family can be seen in the north apse, making this site a fascinating destination for art and history lovers.

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