Cappadocia, Turkey, attracts millions of local and international tourists throughout the year, offering more than limited places to visit. In this region, renowned worldwide for its fairy chimneys, you can continue to witness beautiful historical and natural wonders. In this context, our article will provide information about Zelve Valley, addressing frequently asked questions and details about the Zelve Open-Air Museum, including entrance fees.
Those deciding to embark on a Cappadocia tour can easily reach the region by private vehicles or organized tours. Apart from local tourists who often prefer day tours, millions of international tourists visit the region throughout the year. Now, let’s delve into the details of Zelve open-air museum and Zelve Valley, known as the land of natural and historical wonders in Cappadocia.
This museum, located within the borders of Zelve valley in Cappadocia, is approximately 1 km from Paşabağları and 6 km from Avanos. The site offers two different walking trails, with the longer one being 250 meters and the shorter one measuring 170 meters in length.
The entrance fee for Zelve open air museum is 50 TL. Situated on the north and steep slopes of Aktepe, this museum is also located within the Zelve Archaeological site, consisting of three different valleys and hosting the region’s most densely clustered fairy chimneys. The entrance fee for Zelve open air museum is 50 TL.
Cappadocia Zelve open-air museum is one of the most intriguing and visited museums after the Göreme Open-Air Museum. Initially used as a settlement until 1950, the Zelve region was home to both Muslim and Christian communities. The local people, who moved to the nearby Zelve village, played a crucial role in transforming this area into an open-air museum. The region officially became a museum in 1967, featuring a labyrinthine path with numerous human and animal figures, as well as frescoes, in its caves.
The open air museum houses several churches, including the Deer church, Grape church, and Fish church, all of which are must-see structures. The depictions of Jesus and Mary at the doors of the Fish and Grape Churches are noteworthy, while the vaulted section portrays angels Gabriel and michael carrying a cross. The frescoes in these churches, adorned with intersecting circular patterns and the maltese cross in the vault, are known to date back to the 8th century. In addition to these well-preserved structures, there is also a mosque within the museum.
The museum encompasses various sections, such as the Mill, Holy Hac church, Pillared church, Monastery, and Tunnel. Each area in this history-infused museum showcases structures formed by natural stones that are a must-see for those exploring the sights of Cappadocia. Visitors researching places to visit in Cappadocia often encounter information about the Zelve open air museum, where you can witness the flight of swallows and enjoy a spectacular view, especially during sunset.
Zelve valley is located 1 km from Paşabağları and 5 km from Avanos. Comprising three different valleys, Zelve valley is the region where fairy chimneys are most densely clustered. Hosting broad-bodied and pointed fairy chimneys, Zelve became an important settlement for Christians between the 9th and 13th centuries. It was also used as a religious center, as research indicates that the first religious seminars for priests took place in Zelve.
Zelve Valley, while discussing the Zelve open air museum, it is essential to delve into information about Zelve Valley itself. Recognized as the longest-inhabited settlement in Cappadocia, this valley is naturally the oldest settlement area. According to a legend, Christianity first spread here. The valley is home to numerous churches, monasteries, and dwellings, and it served as a village until the 1950s. People lived in homes carved into the rocks, creating a unique village. However, after a while, they moved to Zelve Village to continue their lives.
The rock houses in the valley create beautiful landscapes that captivate newcomers to the region. Observers can imagine what life was like in these houses before 1950 by picturing the scenes of daily life. The tunnels in the valley also continue to attract attention. Due to damages over time, most of the tunnels are currently closed. Nevertheless, it’s worth mentioning that there are still many structures that visitors can see and explore.
To get to know Zelve valley better, the entrance area, where various events are organized, is noteworthy. Visitors interested in enjoying music in such a beautiful setting can participate in the organized events. For those who want to explore the valley, it is important to note that comfortable shoes and clothing should be preferred. As visitors would need to walk for some time and climb a few routes to see the surrounding structures.
Zelve valley is separated from Göreme – Avanos road. Located only 1 km from Paşabağı valley, Zelve valley is one of the important places to see in Cappadocia.
Where is Zelve Open Air Museum Map
Zelve valley is located in the Avanos region. However, even if you are not staying in Avanos during your Cappadocia vacation, transportation is extremely easy. The distance between Goreme and Zelve museum is approximately 7 km. You can reach the museum with a 10-minute drive by private car.
Zelve open air museum is almost equidistant from Goreme and Avanos. The museum has its own parking lot. Located about 7-8 km from the city center, you can reach the museum by private car. Additionally, Zelve valley and museum are popular stops for tours. You can also use minibuses departing from Avanos and Goreme. However, transportation via public transport might be more challenging.
Yes, you can enter Zelve open air museum using the Museum Pass. If you don’t have a Museum Pass, you can obtain one at the entrance. Additionally, you can apply for the Museum Pass online before coming to Cappadocia. If you’re not considering getting a Museum Pass and don’t want to make any applications, keep in mind that Maximum cards can also be used as a Museum Pass. İş Bankası’s credit card, Maximum, can be used as a Museum pass for one month every year. You don’t need to apply separately; you can simply scan your card. The one-month period starts after the first use, during which you can enter museums using your card.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zelve_Monastery
Zelve Open Air Museum
Zelve Open Air Museum Photos
