Zelve Valley is a prominent open-air museum in Cappadocia, nestled between Avanos and
Goreme, close to Pasabag Monks Valley. As an integral part of the UNESCO World
Heritage Site, the Zelve Valley Open Air Museum ranks among the must-visit destinations in
Cappadocia, offering travelers the chance to encounter both sharply pointed and expansively
wide fairy chimneys.
Here is important information about Zelve Valley
➢ Zelve Valley Open Air Museum thrived as the residence of a Christian monk
community, ingeniously utilizing distinctive rock formations to craft a network of
underground dwellings, chapels, and storage areas.
➢ This museum spans three primary valleys, featuring numerous cave dwellings, tunnels,
and chapels.
➢ Visitors can independently explore the caves and tunnels or partake in a guided tour to
better understand the site's history and its former inhabitants.
➢ Renowned for its captivating frescoes gracing chapel walls, the museum provides a
unique glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of the valley's monks.
➢ As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Zelve Valley Open Air Museum is significant
among Cappadocia's historic treasures. Open year-round, certain periods may see
closures for restoration work on specific chapels and tunnels.
➢ Easily accessible from the nearby town of Goreme, visitors can reach the site by car or
local bus. A favored spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts, the valley offers a rugged
landscape and breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and valleys.
➢ To fully enjoy the experience, comfortable walking shoes and ample water and
sunscreen are recommended, especially during the hot and dusty summer months.
With its rich history, stunning scenery, and unique cultural offerings, the Zelve Valley
Open Air Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Cappadocia
region of Turkey.
ZELVE VALLEY’S HISTORY
Zelve Valley Open Air Museum is a distinctive open-air museum offering visitors a glimpse
into the region's rich cultural and historical legacy. Its history extends back to over 4,000
years ago when the Hittites were the initial settlers in the area.During the Byzantine period,
the Zelve Valley was a hub for Christian monks who carved rock churches and dwellings. The
valley also housed a vibrant community of farmers and tradespeople, capitalizing on the
fertile soil and abundant resources.In the 20th century, due to geological instability arising
from erosion and earthquakes, the residents of Zelve Valley were compelled to abandon their
homes and relocate to nearby towns. Presently, the valley stands as a meticulously preserved
open-air museum showcasing the region's unique cultural and historical heritage.
YOU CAN SEE & DO IN ZELVE VALLEY
Zelve Valley stands out as one of the premier destinations to explore and marvel at
Cappadocia's most striking fairy chimneys. The valley captivates travelers with not only its
enchanting fairy chimneys but also its breathtaking natural beauty. We highly recommend
including a visit to Zelve Valley in your Cappadocia itinerary.
Visitors to the Zelve Valley Open Air Museum can delve into the numerous rock-cut
churches, houses, and chapels alongside the cave dwellings and tunnels that once served the
local inhabitants. The museum provides a captivating insight into the daily lives of those who
resided in the valley, showcasing the distinctive architecture and cultural practices passed
down through generations.Zelve Valley Open Air Museum offers a tranquil environment where travelers can witness various natural and human-made formations, featuring the finest examples of Byzantine art in
Cappadocia, including churches, tunnels, mills, houses, and monasteries.
In this region, you'll encounter numerous monasteries, churches, settlements, and naturally
formed fairy chimneys, bearing witness to the rich history and traces of life. Between the 8th
and 13th centuries, this area stood as one of the most significant residential and worship
locations for Christianity.
Embarking on a delightful journey through Zelve Valley, one of the most captivating activities
involves walking or hiking amidst the enchanting fairy chimneys. Allow yourself a generous
3-4 hours to explore the valley thoroughly.
Comprising three distinct valleys, the first unveils a rock-cut mosque, the second reveals
living spaces from the past, and the third showcases ancient rock-cut settlements and
churches.Upon entering the valley, you'll be greeted by an impressive fountain that instantly captivates.
The valley boasts 15 churches, each contributing to the rich historical tapestry of the region.
Exploring the rich historical tapestry of Cappadocia, the Uzumlu Church (the Church with
Grapes), Balikli Church (the Church with Fishes), and Geyikli Church (the Church with
the Deer) stand as the most renowned fairy chimney churches. A visit to these captivating
sites is genuinely worthwhile.
For trekking enthusiasts, Zelve Valley proves to be an ideal destination. Embark on a
pleasant stroll around the valley, allowing you to examine the intricacies of the rock-cut
monasteries and their dwellings up close. Ascend to the elevated hills to witness the valley
from a panoramic view and capture numerous photos.
What can we eat in Zelve Valley?
A petite buffet awaits at the valley's entrance. Indulge in pancakes, toast, or savor local tea
crafted by skilled artisans.
ABOUT VISIT ZELVE VALLEY
Accessible daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ticket prices may vary due to changes in exchange rates. Currently, the entrance fee is 65
Turkish Liras (2.21 USD / 1.99 Euro). However, joining tours could be a better deal as they
usually cover services like lunch, professional tour guide, and transportation.
For Museum Card- https://muze.gov.tr/urun-ekle?catalogNo=KRT-MBL01-08-008
Distance of Zelve Valley;
• 1 km(0.62 mile) from Pasabag Valley
• 12 km(7 miles) from Uchisar
• 11 km(6 miles) from Urgup
• 7 km(4 miles) from Goreme
• 6 km(3 miles) from Avanos
