Goreme Dark Church
The Goreme Dark Church, also known as the Karanlik Kilise, is a popular attraction located in the Goreme Open Air Museum in Cappadocia, Turkey. This church is one of the best examples of rock-cut architecture in the region and is famous for its beautiful frescoes.
To get to the Goreme Dark Church, you first need to make your way to the Goreme Open Air Museum, which is located about 1.5 km (1 mile) from the center of Goreme. There are a few different ways to get there, but the easiest way is by taking a taxi or hiring a private driver. Alternatively, you can also walk from Goreme to the museum, which should take about 20-25 minutes.
Once you arrive at the Goreme Open Air Museum, you can purchase your entrance ticket at the gate and then make your way to the Dark Church. Please note that there is an additional fee to enter the Dark Church, which is currently 15 TL per person. The museum and the church are open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
The Goreme Dark Church was carved into the soft tuff rock in the 11th century and features a number of stunning frescoes that depict scenes from the Bible. These frescoes are well-preserved thanks to the fact that the church was sealed off for centuries and was only rediscovered in 1957.
As you explore the church, you’ll be able to see intricate details in the frescoes, including images of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. The overall effect is both beautiful and awe-inspiring.
Visitors should be aware that photography is not allowed inside the church in order to preserve the frescoes, so be sure to take in the beauty of the artwork with your own eyes.
In summary, the Goreme Dark Church is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Cappadocia. To get there, you’ll need to make your way to the Goreme Open Air Museum and purchase an additional ticket to enter the Dark Church. Be sure to set aside enough time to fully appreciate the beauty of the frescoes and the history of this incredible site.