Soganli Valley

Soganli Valley

Soganli Valley was formed due to landslides caused by earthquakes. It has been inhabited since the Roman era, with locals burying their deceased in rock cones scattered across the valley's slopes. These cones were later repurposed by the Byzantines as churches, with many still adorned with stunning frescoes dating back to the 6th to 14th centuries. Notable churches to visit in Soganli Valley include Karabas (Çukurbağ), Yılanlı, Kubbelli (Kubbele), and Church St. Barbara (Tahtali).

Soganli Valley
KARABAS CHURCH

Situated on the right side of the valley, between two villages, is the Karabas Church. This religious site features a nave and apse, and its walls are adorned with stunning paintings that were created using various techniques throughout history. The church's artwork includes an array of scenes such as the Deesis, Annunciation, Nativity, Presentation of Jesus in the Temple (also known as The Childhood of Christ), Transfiguration, Missions of the Apostles to Preach Christianity, Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Ascension. Visitors to the church will also have the opportunity to view portraits of various saints.

SNAKE CHURCH (SAINT GEORGE CHURCH)

Located near Karabas Church, the Snake Church is a fascinating attraction in Cappadocia. Also known as St. George's Chapel, the church features a unique depiction of St. George slaying a dragon. Additionally, the church houses a one-of-a-kind fresco called "Mature Jesus," which portrays Jesus as an elderly man. Locals believed that this is how Jesus will appear on the Day of Judgment. Other frescoes in the church depict life after death, making it a must-see for visitors to the region.

KUBBELI CHURCH (THE DOMED CHURCH)

The Kubbeli Church is situated to the north of the village, nestled on the left side of a small valley. This remarkable church has a splendid dome that was intricately carved from rock, and it is one of the only two examples of such architecture in all of Cappadocia. The Kubbeli Church showcases advanced architectural techniques and dates back to the 14th century AD, boasting a basilica-style with three naves and three apses. The church features a range of scenes, albeit in a somewhat damaged form, including Prophetic Vision on the main apse, Deesis on the side apse, and Massacre of the Innocents, Pursuit of Elizabeth, Annunciation, Visitation, Proof of the Virginity, Adoration of the Magi, Flight into Egypt, Presentation in the Temple, Killing of Zacharias, Calling of John, John meeting Christ, Preaching of John, Baptism, Christ and Zacharias, Marriage at Cana, Miracle of the Wine, Jesus and the Samaritan Woman, Entry into Jerusalem, and Healing of the Nobleman's Daughter. Additionally, the church also displays portraits of the saints.

CHURCH OF ST. BARBARA (TAHTALI CHURCH)

The Tahtali Church is located at the end of a valley to the west of the town. The church is a single-apsed, single-naved building with barrel vaulting and dates back to the early 14th century. It is known for its picturesque portrayals of saints. The church features various scenes, including Prophetic Vision on the apse, Deesis on the vault, Annunciation, Visitation, Proof of the Virgin, Journey to Bethlehem, Nativity, Anastasis, Seven Sleepers, and portraits of the saints.