Red & Rose Valleys

Red & Rose Valleys

Cappadocia's Red Valley and Rose Valley are two of the most fascinating valleys in the region, with Red Valley starting from Panorama Point in Ortahisar Village and concluding in Cavusin Village. The interconnected valleys are full of dwellings, vineyards, and fruit trees such as apricot and almond trees.

The valleys have trails of varying lengths and levels of difficulty, ranging from easy to strenuous, some of which can be completed in as little as 45 minutes. The most comprehensive and lengthy path, which takes approximately four hours, leads you to all of the hidden churches. One such church is the Uzumlu Church, which dates back to the 9th century and still has a few frescoes on its walls.

Red & Rose Valleys

Kolonlu Church is one of the most interesting churches in the mountain range, accessed through a tunnel at the back and a pigeon loft. During the Roman period, Paganism was the official religion, and Christians in the region had to hide in the valleys to avoid persecution and pray. Kolonlu Church is one of these hidden churches, and it resembles a pigeon's nest from the outside but opens up into a vast church with columns inside.

Another church worth seeing is the Hacli (Cross) Church, an 11th-century cross-shaped church with lovely frescoes depicting Christ and Lady of Mercy inside. The ceiling is decorated with a large cross with marks from its origins, which adds to the church's name: The Cross Church. Three Hacli Churches can be found along the way in Rose Valley, featuring three crosses etched into the ceiling.

It is recommended to undertake the hike through Red and Rose Valleys with a knowledgeable tour guide who can lead you along the way and point out all the essential details, so you don't miss out on any of the attractions.