Gomeda Valley Gomeda Valley, situated in the west of Mustafapaşa town in Ürgüp district of Nevşehir, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The valley stretches for about 6 kilometers, comprising both Gomeda and Üzengi valleys. Unlike other popular tourist spots, Gomeda Valley maintains its authentic ambiance and remains off the beaten path. Visitors who venture to explore this valley, adorned with multi-level dovecotes, are mesmerized by its untouched beauty. The name Gomeda comes from the historical ruins at its entrance, while the name Üzengi comes from the stream that flows through the valley. The Üzengi River starts south of Ortahisar and runs through the Ürgüp Valley until it joins the Damsa Dam. Along the river are picnic areas that provide a scenic spot for visitors and have mineral springs that offer a refreshing break from the walk through Ürgüp. Gomeda Valley is home to many remarkable dovecotes that house dozens, if not hundreds, of pigeons that visit during the summer months. The locals still use these dovecotes to obtain fertilizer. Each dovecote is unique, some made of stone and others so intricately designed that they seem like works of art rather than practical structures. Travelers can experience both breathtaking and terrifying views as they explore these dovecotes. The Gomeda Valley has historically attracted fewer visitors due to the absence of fairy chimneys. The Christian community were the first inhabitants of this valley, which was once believed to have been home to a vast settlement comprising two churches, two necropoles, and an underground city, where up to 600 households resided. Exploring the Gomeda Valley presents a plethora of historically significant sites to discover. At Alakara and St. Basilios Church, you are greeted with frescoes that vie for your attention with their intricately painted walls. The Underground City is among the attractions that arouse curiosity about its past. At the start of our trek through the valley, the ruins of the Alakara Church are visible. This church, built in Roman times, features depictions of Jesus, his twelve apostles, and angels in the apse frescoes. Additionally, images of saints adorn the arches. St. Basilios Church, which has a rectangular layout with two interior naves, is a rare structure built during the Byzantine Iconoclastic period. The sloping ceiling boasts a large cross decorated with floral and geometric designs. On the south wall, positioned in the east and facing the Gomeda Valley, are three Maltese crosses, inscribed beside geometric and floral patterns. These crosses bear inscriptions for Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob instead of portraits.