Niğde, situated in the Cappadocia Region, is a town rich in history and culture. The town is home to many cave settlements, churches, and other historical sites. It lies near several ancient trade routes, including the road from Kayseri (formerly Caesarea) to the Cilician Gates. Throughout its history, Niğde has been inhabited by various cultures, including the Hittites, Assyrians, Greeks, Armenians, Romans, Byzantines, and Turks from the 12th century onwards.
Niğde became a major center in the 13th century and was captured by many Turkish empires, including the Karaman Beylik and Eretna Beylik. It was not taken by the Ottomans until the 15th century during the reign of Mehmet II.
Some of the notable Muslim buildings in Niğde include the 14th-century Alaeddin Mosque, Sungur Bey Mosque and his tomb, and the Hudavend Hatun Mausoleum built in 1312. The 15th-century AkMedresse, now converted to an archaeological museum, displays artifacts from the area. The town also has several remarkable ruins from the early periods, including those found in the nearby towns of Kemerhisar and Bor, where ancient Roman and Hittite ruins can be seen.
For history enthusiasts, Gumusler is an important site with over a thousand years of Byzantine monasteries and churches still standing. The high columns and walls adorned with amazing frescoes make it a must-see wonderland.