Faith / Monastery
Gümüşler Monastery
Merkez, Niğde
One of the largest monasteries of Cappadocia, carved into tuff rock in the town of Gümüşler; a 10th–11th-century complex known for its 'Smiling Virgin Mary' fresco.
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Its story
The Gümüşler Monastery is carved into a large tuff rock mass in the town of Gümüşler, about 10 km northeast of Niğde. Around a square-plan central courtyard are a church, a chapel, a refectory, monks' cells and underground spaces. The church's well-preserved colorful frescoes depict scenes from the life of Jesus and Church Fathers such as Basil the Great and Gregory of Nyssa; they are thought to be the work of at least three different masters. The 'Smiling Virgin Mary' fresco, known as the only example in Anatolia, is the most famous part. Rediscovered and restored in the 1960s, the site was declared an archaeological protected site in 1973.
Key facts
- Period
- 10th–11th century
- Admission
- Paid (Müzekart valid)
- Getting there
- About 10 km from Niğde
- Visit duration
- 45 minutes
Trip purpose
- Photography
- Rainy day
Location
37.99834, 34.77202
Reviews
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Source: Web derlemesi (doğrulanmalı): https://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gümüşler_Manastırı | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gümüşler_Monastery | https://nigde.ktb.gov.tr/TR-74408/oren-yerleri.html