History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
Yılanlı Church is a world-renowned atomic rock temple carved into the steep rocky slopes of the Ihlara Valley between the 9th and 12th centuries. The church took this name because of the famous fresco on the western wall depicting the torment of sinners in hell. In the fresco; Four women who did not breastfeed their children, took away the rights of orphans, slandered and lied were punished by giant snakes. In folk narrations, these depictions were described as a sign of instruction and became a point of deep contemplation in the self-improvement of the monks living in the valley. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
It was carved into the rocks on the western slope of Ihlara Canyon, approximately 40 meters above the level of the Melendiz Stream. Its altitude is 1,165 meters. Located among the steep basaltic cornices of the canyon, the church offers a bird's eye view of the breathtaking geological stratification of the Melendiz Valley and the green canyon floor like an eagle's nest. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Ihlara Valley ruins ticket or T.R. Ministry of Culture and Tourism Museum Card is valid.•Visiting Hours and Days (Mandatory): It can be visited 7 days a week between 08:30 - 19:00 (Summer) / 08:30 - 17:00 (Winter).•Rules, Safety and Stroller/Disabled Access: Wall frescoes should never be touched and flash should not be used. It is not suitable for baby strollers and disabled chairs as it is climbed via paths in the valley and steps carved into the rocks.•Facilities and Facilities:There are rest points, fountains and directional signs on the valley floor. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Inside the Ihlara Valley Track (approximately 500 m walking distance from Ağaçaltı Church), Ihlara, Güzelyurt / Aksaray.•Road Conditions and Vehicle Availability: Vehicles are left at the Ihlara Vadisi official parking lot; After descending into the canyon, you can cross the wooden bridge at the valley floor and reach the church via the path.•Actual Public Transportation Information (Mandatory): You can reach the main entrance of Ihlara Valley by Ihlara/Güzelyurt minibuses departing from Aksaray Bus Terminal; From here you can walk down to the valley.•Parking Availability:There is a large parking area at the official entrance of Ihlara Valley. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photography Spots and Frames:From the terrace at the entrance of the church, the bends of the Melendiz Stream and the canyon walls, as well as the Last Judgment and St. George depictions inside the church, should be photographed.•Light and Shooting Hours:When the sun is high at noon, the inner window of the church becomes dim, and the best shots are taken in the afternoon when the canyon is shaded.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:After the trip to Ihlara, you should taste the famous Güzelyurt pot beans, tandoori bread and homemade walnut baklava in Güzelyurt district center.