Selime MonasteryPlaces to Visit in Nevsehir

The Selime Monastery stands out as a remarkable destination in the Cappadocia region, admired for its vast scale and rich historical background. Construction is believed to have spanned over 200 years, and the monastery was capable of housing up to 5000 individuals simultaneously. Originating from the 8th or 9th century, the Selime Monastery remains the largest and most significant monastery within the region.

Initially constructed as a monastery, Selime was transformed into a caravanserai during the 11th century. These caravanserais functioned as complimentary inns for traders and their animals, allowing stays of up to three days along the Silk Road throughout the Seljuk Empire. This system greatly facilitated commerce in Turkey until maritime explorations by pioneers like Christopher Columbus changed global trade routes. Sadly, after the 16th century, the monastery was deserted and fell into ruin. Later, shepherds and local children inhabited the site, causing considerable damage.

The Selime Monastery includes a spacious kitchen with a chimney, a water well, a missionary school, extensive storage areas, a church, a chapel, and residential quarters. The cathedral stands as the monastery’s most important structure, featuring two rows of columns that divide the interior into three distinct sections. Although many of the original paintings suffered from vandalism, some remnants of these exquisite artworks still remain visible.

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