Manastır Valley
The Manastır Valley looks like a “small Ihlara Valley” with a stream, willow trees, and 28 rock-carved churches, chapels and underground cities, both small and large, that can be identified between high rocks on both sides. The sheltered structure of the region became a shelter for the clergy who opposed the prohibition of depiction in the period. From the end of the 11th century, the region came under the domination of the Turks and the Christians living here continued their worship freely. The valley, which has hosted many people in its monasteries and churches, hides the traces of the first monastic life. Saint Gregorius Theologos, a Nenezili religious scholar, made this region his center in the fourth century, and ensured the spread of Christianity in Anatolia.
