Historical El Nazar Church and Fairy Chimney (10th Century T-Planned Rock Carving Masterpiece)

History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore

The Historical El Nazar Church, built by completely hollowing out a single, free-standing giant fairy chimney in the Zemi Valley extension of the UNESCO World Heritage Göreme National Park, is one of the peak works of late 10th century Cappadocia rock architecture and Byzantine monumental painting. World Monuments Fund (WMF) and T.R. The priceless frescoes of the building were saved through a meticulous restoration project carried out in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Architectural / Natural Structure and Details

The church was designed in the "T" plan scheme (free cross plan), which is rare in Cappadocia rock-carved architecture. The eastern, northern and southern cross arms are barrel vaulted, and the middle area is domed. In the Bible cycle frescoes that cover the entire interior; The Annunciation, Visitation, Birth, Presentation of Jesus to the Temple, Adoration of the Three Magi, Resurrection of Lazarus, Entry into Jerusalem and Metamorphosis scenes are depicted with chronological mastery.

Spiritual Visiting Etiquette and Commemoration Guidelines

Entering a solitary pointed-coned fairy chimney in the middle of a lush apple and walnut garden and coming face to face with the 1100-year-old vibrantly colored sacred frescoes will present visitors with a fairy-tale and fascinating Cappadocia experience.

Practical Visiting Tips & Transportation / Check-in

It is located in Göreme town of Nevşehir Central district, on the right side of Göreme-Museum road, at the entrance of Zemi Valley. It can be reached in 10-15 minutes on foot from Göreme centre. It is open to visitors throughout the week; Museum card is valid.

Surrounding Routes & Local Gastronomy Discovery

Göreme Open Air Museum is in the same historical core line as Zemi Valley and Tokalı Church. After the visit, you should try tile casserole, apricot stew and Cappadocia meatballs in Göreme stone restaurants.