Soganli ValleyPlaces to Visit in Nevsehir

Soganli Valley was created by landslides triggered by earthquakes. The area has been inhabited since the Roman period, during which locals buried their dead inside rock cones scattered along the valley’s hillsides. These cones were later transformed into churches by the Byzantines, many of which still feature magnificent frescoes dating from the 6th to the 14th centuries. Among the prominent churches to explore in Soganli Valley are Karabas (Çukurbağ), Yılanlı, Kubbelli (Kubbele), and the Church of St. Barbara (Tahtali).

KARABAS CHURCH

Located on the right side of the valley, nestled between two villages, stands the Karabas Church. This sacred site consists of a nave and apse, with walls richly decorated by exquisite paintings created using diverse techniques over different periods. The church’s artwork showcases numerous biblical scenes including the Deesis, Annunciation, Nativity, Presentation of Jesus in the Temple (also referred to as The Childhood of Christ), Transfiguration, Apostles’ Missions to Spread Christianity, Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Ascension. Visitors can also admire portraits of various saints within the church.

SNAKE CHURCH (SAINT GEORGE CHAPEL)

Situated close to the Karabas Church, the Snake Church is a captivating site in Cappadocia. Also called St. George’s Chapel, it features a distinctive mural depicting St. George battling a dragon. The church also contains a rare fresco known as "Mature Jesus", portraying Jesus as an elderly man, which locals believe represents His appearance on the Day of Judgment. Additional frescoes illustrate themes of life after death, making the church an essential stop for visitors to the area.

KUBBELI CHURCH (THE DOMED CHURCH)

Located to the north of the village on the left side of a small valley, the Kubbeli Church features a magnificent dome intricately carved from rock, making it one of the only two examples of this architectural style in Cappadocia. Dating back to the 14th century AD, this church demonstrates advanced construction techniques and follows a basilica layout with three naves and three apses. Though some scenes are partially damaged, the church displays remarkable frescoes including the Prophetic Vision on the main apse, Deesis on the side apse, and depictions such as the Massacre of the Innocents, Elizabeth’s Pursuit, Annunciation, Visitation, Proof of the Virginity, Adoration of the Magi, Flight into Egypt, Presentation in the Temple, Killing of Zacharias, Calling of John, John Meeting Christ, John’s Preaching, Baptism, Christ and Zacharias, Marriage at Cana, Miracle of the Wine, Jesus and the Samaritan Woman, Entry into Jerusalem, and Healing of the Nobleman’s Daughter. The church also contains saints’ portraits.

CHURCH OF ST. BARBARA (TAHTALI CHURCH)

Situated at the valley’s end to the west of the town, the Tahtali Church is a single-nave, single-apse structure with barrel vaulting, dating back to the early 14th century. Renowned for its beautiful saint portrayals, the church features scenes such as the Prophetic Vision on the apse, Deesis on the vault, and images of the Annunciation, Visitation, Proof of the Virgin, Journey to Bethlehem, Nativity, Anastasis, Seven Sleepers, alongside saints’ portraits.

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