Located within the unique historical landscape of Cappadocia, Virgin Mary Church stands as one of the largest and most monumental religious structures in Nevşehir. Built in 1849 during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecid, the church was funded by the l
📍 Location: Cumhuriyet Neighborhood, Nevşehir
🏛️ Highlights: Historical church architecture, frescoes, Ottoman-era heritage, former prison history
Located within the unique historical landscape of Cappadocia, Virgin Mary Church stands as one of the largest and most monumental religious structures in Nevşehir. Built in 1849 during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecid, the church was funded by the local Orthodox Greek community and designed by architect Leontizu Gregor Kalfa. It was consecrated for worship by Kayseri Metropolitan Paisios and served as an active Orthodox Greek church until 1924.
🏛️ In 1924, following the Turkish-Greek population exchange, the Greek Orthodox community left the region, and the church was closed for worship, remaining abandoned for nearly 26 years.
🏢 In 1950, the church underwent modifications and was converted into a prison, serving as Nevşehir Prison until 1983.
📖 *During this period, many renowned writers and artists were imprisoned here. The famous Turkish writer Yılmaz Güney wrote his novel "Boynu Bükük Öldüler" in this prison. Additionally, the 1973 film "Mahpus", starring Türkan Şoray and Hakan Balamir, was filmed within the church walls*.
🏗️ During its time as a prison, several structural changes were made, including the addition of concrete floors, cells, toilets, and a small prayer room; however, the original architectural integrity of the church was largely preserved.
🎨 The church follows a basilica plan and is distinguished by its octagonal tower.
🏛️ Built from Nevşehir stone, the structure features three lower and five upper naves, with five semi-circular apses, making it one of the Cappadocian churches with the most apses.
🖌️ The interior is adorned with frescoes depicting biblical scenes, enriching the spiritual and artistic atmosphere.
📜 Inscriptions in Greek and Karamanlı Turkish indicate that the church was used by different Christian communities throughout history.
🛠️ In 2020, the Virgin Mary Church underwent an extensive restoration and conservation process.
🏗️ After three years of meticulous work, it was reopened to visitors on April 27, 2023, restoring its place in Nevşehir’s cultural heritage.
🌍 Today, the church is more than just a religious site—it serves as an important tourism and cultural landmark reflecting Nevşehir’s diverse historical background.
🚗 By Private Car
Follow the signs from Nevşehir city center towards Cumhuriyet Neighborhood to reach the church.🚌 By Public Transport
Nevşehir city buses and minibuses provide transportation to the area.📲 For the latest travel routes and navigation support, use the Advisormapp app! 🚀
✅ 📍 Navigation and Route Assistance
✔ Find the shortest and safest routes to the church
✅ 📸 Historical Exploration Guide
✔ Learn about the church’s past, its frescoes, and its Ottoman heritage
✅ 🎥 Cinema and Literary History Route
✔ Discover films shot here and notable writers who spent time in the church
📌 The Virgin Mary Church is one of Cappadocia’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks. With its rich past, remarkable architecture, and fascinating transformations, this unique site offers visitors a glimpse into Nevşehir’s diverse heritage.
📍 For up-to-date tourist information, cultural guides, and travel details, download the Advisormapp app! 🚀✨
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