Places to Visit in Soganli Valley

Travel enthusiasts should definitely explore areas like pigeon valley, Gulludere valley, and Baglıdere valley in addition to Soganlı valley. Because in these valleys, you can spend time away from the city noise and encounter various outdoor activities. Therefore, don’t forget that choosing Cappadocia for a peaceful, calm, and beautiful holiday is a must.

Soganlı valley, located in the town of Soganlı, affiliated with the Yesilhisar district of Kayseri, emerges as a vast area with features resembling fairy chimneys. Situated 15 km away from the center of Yesilhisar, the width of this valley extends up to 25 km. While exploring the intriguing rock formations here, you can also see numerous monasteries, shelters, churches, and caves. Places to visit in Soganli valley

It is situated between the provinces of Nigde, Nevşehir, and Kayseri. This region, which is 80 km away from Kayseri, is 60 km from Nevşehir and again 80 km from Nigde. Additionally, it is 40 km to Urgüp and 30 km to Derinkuyu. Travelers using private vehicles can easily reach the valley by following the signs from the nearest center.

The valley in Soganlı, located in the town of Yesilhisar in Kayseri, is notable for its resemblance to Ihlara Valley in terms of size. Situated 15 km away from Yeşilhisar center, this valley stretches up to 25 km in width. Its most prominent features include the domed rock church, Snake church, and Karabaş church. The history of the valley dates back to the 6th century, with more than 50 churches, of which 15 are accessible, believed to have been built during the Byzantine era. The region, thought to have been inhabited by Byzantines, was transformed into a Turkish village after being taken from the Byzantines in the 12th century.

Soganlı still retains the captivating fairy chimneys that Cappadocia is famous for. Despite being small, Soganlı is a charming village with a population of approximately 400. The region, which was affected by earthquakes due to the previous activity of volcanoes, has numerous plateaus formed on its slopes. As a result, it’s easy to access churches and tombs from the Byzantine and Roman civilizations.

The Kubbeli church, located in the northern part of Soganlı valley, is one of the most important sites to visit. The impressive structure with its large fairy chimney is a result of skillful craftsmanship. The Kubbeli Church features numerous corridors, stairs, and tunnels carved into the rocks, making it a mysterious place. The church, with its unique acoustics, still leaves the origin of sounds heard within its premises unknown. Finally, the church took its final form in the 14th century and is adorned with many frescoes.

Soganlı is home to several pigeon houses as well. In ancient times, the ruined parts of structures built as monasteries or churches were repurposed into pigeon houses by constructing walls in the form of windows and doors. Therefore, encountering pigeon houses in churches, tombs, or underground cities is common. Places to visit in Soganli valley

While the region once boasted hundreds of churches and monasteries in the 850s, there are now around 50 structures remaining. The Tokalı church, located 2 km from Soganlı, welcomes visitors with its broad and high-vaulted structure. By climbing 50 steps to reach this church, you can observe its three-nave structure and three connected apses. Another significant church in Soğanlı, the Karabaş Church, is worth seeing. Showing traces from the Roman period, this church incorporates Byzantine and Seljuk motifs, depicting scenes such as the birth of Jesus, crucifixion, and baptism.

One distinctive aspect of Soganlı valley during a visit to Cappadocia is the presence of cloth dolls. Adding vibrant colors to the region, these cloth dolls are one of the primary sources of income for the locals. In addition to the dolls meticulously crafted and adorned with special makeup by the women of the village, socks, carpets, and bags are also available for purchase. For a taste of local cuisine, you can enjoy delicious gözleme prepared by the villagers.

Where is Soganli Valley Map

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soğanlı_Valley

Soganli Valley Places to Visit Photos