Zelve Open Air Museum

Zelve Open Air Museum consists of three valleys that served as one of the largest monastic settlements in Cappadocia from the 9th to 13th centuries. Unlike other open-air museums in the region, Zelve was inhabited until 1952, making it unique as both a historical site and a glimpse into more recent traditional Cappadocian life. The site contains numerous rock-cut churches, chapels, monasteries, and residential dwellings carved directly into the fairy chimneys and cliff faces, creating a fascinating landscape of religious and civilian architecture.

The three valleys - Zelve Valley, Geyikli Valley, and Aktepe Valley - each offer different perspectives on monastic life and community organization in medieval Cappadocia. Visitors can explore the Fish Church (Balıklı Kilise), the Grape Church (Üzümlü Kilise), and the Deer Church (Geyikli Kilise), each containing unique frescoes and architectural features. The site also includes a fascinating collection of millstones, storage facilities, pigeon houses, and tunnel systems that connected the various parts of the settlement.

The museum offers excellent hiking opportunities with trails that wind through all three valleys, providing stunning views and close encounters with the remarkable fairy chimney formations.