Central Anatolia

With a length of 14 kilometers, an average depth of 150 meters, and a width of 200 meters, the Ihlara Valley is located in the Cappadocia Region, in the Güzelyurt district of Aksaray city. The Melendiz River, which shapes the Ihlara Valley and flows between the canyon walls, sometimes gently and sometimes excitedly, is the main source of life here. Hundreds of churches and rock-carved places, which were formed by the easy carving of the rocks surrounding the valley, make the valley one of the most important centers of culture and civilization in the world.

The Melendiz River, which forms the valley, flows in meanders. It stops by Selime, Yaprakhisar, Belisırma villages, takes the name Uluırmak near Aksaray and pours into Tuz (Salt) Lake. A relatively easy hike can be taken in the valley, which, with its beautiful greenery, provides its visitors a slice of heaven on earth.  You will come across cave churches lined up along the paths on the 14-kilometer-long walkway.

The valley is thought to be home to more than 4,000 households and 100 cave churches once upon a time. Some of these rock-carved houses and churches still exist today.

The Ihlara Valley, which is preserved like a green oasis thanks to Melendiz Stream, hosts many different plant and tree species including walnut, pistachio trees, vineyards, and gardens. The sound of Melendiz, accompanied by the voices and flapping of the birds, is soothing.  The valley is home to a diverse range of species, including eagles on occasion.