Çanlı Kilise

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Çanlı Church

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Overview

Çanlı Church: A Silent Witness of Aksaray

Introduction

Hidden away from the crowds, yet waiting to be discovered, Çanlı Church is one of Aksaray’s lesser-known gems—a historic site seemingly frozen in time. As part of a rock-carved monastery complex, this church captivates visitors with both its architectural beauty and mystical ambiance. At Viofun, we highly recommend exploring this site—not just for its historical value, but for the unique, immersive experience it offers.

General Information

Çanlı Church is situated near Akhisar Village, overlooking a vast valley in Aksaray. Built in the 10th century, it is one of the few Byzantine-era churches that have survived to this day. The surrounding area is dotted with rock-carved dwellings and tombs. One of the church’s most striking features is its original frescoes, which, despite some damage over time, still depict scenes from the Bible and remain remarkably intact

Things to Experience

Explore: Step inside the church and wander through the surrounding cave structures. The silence of the place makes it easy to feel the spiritual weight of its past as a place of worship.

Observe: Take a close look at the frescoes on the walls and the architectural details that echo the Byzantine style.

Taste: In the nearby villages, you can enjoy traditional breakfasts featuring wood-fired flatbread and local cheeses.

Viofun’s Tip

Plan your visit for the morning or early afternoon. Since the church sits in a wide valley, hiking during the hottest part of the day can be challenging. Be sure to bring water and wear comfortable walking shoes. If you're into photography, the sunset offers a breathtaking view over the valley—a perfect end to your visit.

Aksaray

Aksaray: Where History and Nature Embrace Located in the heart of Central Anatolia, Aksaray is a unique destination where history and nature come together. From the enchanting hiking trails of Ihlara Valley to the historic texture of Selime Cathedral and the breathtaking views of Salt Lake, Aksaray offers a peaceful and exploratory journey for every visitor. Appealing to both history enthusiasts and nature lovers, this city remains one of Anatolia’s hidden treasures.

Location Note & Transportation Information

By Bus
You can reach Akhisar Village from Aksaray city center by taking bus number 303. After getting off the bus, it’s about a 20–25 minute walk to the church along marked paths.

By Minibus
There are also minibuses running from Aksaray to Akhisar Village. Once you arrive in the village, follow the signs and enjoy a scenic walk to the church.

By Tram
There is no tram system in Aksaray. However, you can still reach Akhisar Village easily via city buses or minibuses.

By Taxi
A taxi ride from Aksaray city center can take you directly to Çanlı Church. The journey takes approximately 30–35 minutes.

By Private Vehicle
If you're driving, simply follow the signs from Aksaray to Akhisar Village. The road is mostly paved, with a short unpaved stretch toward the end.

Reaching Çanlı Church is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. Whichever route you choose, you're in for a journey steeped in history.