History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
St. Nicholas Monastery is one of the most magnificent monastery complexes of Cappadocia, located in the Monastery Valley, south of the historical Mustafapaşa (Sinasos) town of Ürgüp. The three-storey building, part of which was carved into the rock and whose front façade was built with regular cut stones, was extensively revitalized by the Orthodox Greek community during the 19th century Ottoman period. It was believed that the water of the fountain in the courtyard of the monastery dedicated to St. Nicholas, who was considered the protector of sailors and children, was healing; In the past, both Muslim and Christian people visited this place for healing and prayer purposes. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
The monastery is located at the base of the fascinating Monastery Valley, surrounded by fairy chimneys and conical rock formations, at an altitude of approximately 1,130 meters. Poplar trees, vines and wild roses grow throughout the valley. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Entrance is free (or a small ticket may be applied under the supervision of Ürgüp Museum).•Visiting Hours and Days:Open 7 days a week between 08:30 - 18:00.•Rules, Safety and Stroller/Disabled Access: The floor in the rock-cut parts of the monastery is natural stone; Comfortable walking shoes should be worn. Stroller access is possible up to the courtyard.•Facilities and Facilities:There are resting points at the entrance of the valley, a fountain and local cafes in the center of Mustafapaşa. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Manastır Vadisi Mevkii, Mustafapaşa Village, 50420 Ürgüp / Nevşehir.•Road Condition and Vehicle Availability: 6 km from Ürgüp center and 1 km from Mustafapaşa village square; Asphalt and keystone roads are extremely suitable for passenger vehicles.•Real Public Transportation Information: Mustafapaşa public minibuses depart from Ürgüp center every half hour; The valley can be reached with a 10-minute walk from the town.•Parking Availability:There is a free parking area at the entrance of Manastır Valley. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photo Spots and Frames:The 'Mini Cappadocia' silhouette formed by the three-storey arched facade of the monastery, the bell tower carved into the rock and the fairy chimneys in the valley.•Light and Shooting Hours:As the morning sun illuminates the valley slopes, the monastery façade offers the richest color tones.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:You should try stuffed stuffed vine leaves, manti and homemade baklava served in historical stone mansions in Mustafapaşa village center.