Guzelyurt Village

Guzelyurt Village

Located in Cappadocia, Guzelyurt (also known as Gelveri) is a fascinating town that was once home to a thriving population of Christian Orthodox families. However, in 1924, as part of a population exchange between Greeks and Turks, all the Christian citizens were forced to leave Turkey and move to Greece, while Muslim citizens from Greece were required to move to Turkey.

This exchange left many of the town's houses empty and abandoned. Unfortunately, many of these homes fell into disrepair and have remained neglected for decades.

Guzelyurt Village

Despite this unfortunate history, Guzelyurt is still home to many historic churches, with the Church of Saint Gregorius Ologos Nazianzus being the most impressive. Built in 385 AD, it is the oldest known church in Cappadocia and the surrounding region. It was once a symbol of the thriving Christian community that once lived in the area, but it was eventually converted into a mosque after the population exchange. Visitors can still explore this historic site and see how large the Christian population once was in Guzelyurt.

In addition to the historic church, Guzelyurt is also home to two underground cities and a stunning viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of St. Gregory Church and Mount Hasan, one of Cappadocia's most famous volcanoes. As you make your way up to the viewpoint, keep an eye out for Sivisli Church, which dates back to the 19th century.

Overall, Guzelyurt is a town steeped in history and a must-visit destination for those interested in the rich cultural heritage of Cappadocia.