Durmuş Kadir Church is one of the oldest and most significant churches in Cappadocia. It is estimated to have been built in the 6th century and is a fine example of basilica architecture, which was also used in palaces in the past. The church is located in Göreme, a town in the central part of Cappadocia, and is about 1 km southwest of the town center.
The church is notable for its elegant carved details and vaulted ceiling. It is a large building, and even the entrance room is larger than many churches in the region. There are a total of 10 tombs inside the church, and they are larger than normal tombs, which suggests that they may have contained multiple items buried together.
Like many churches built during the rise of Byzantium, Durmuş Kadir Church was constructed at a very high level, and the highest part of the building rises up to 11 meters. The church is made entirely of rock, which is a common building material in the region. However, over time, many parts of the building, especially the burial chambers, were damaged due to heavy rains.
To get to Durmuş Kadir Church, you can use your own car or take the Göreme minibuses. If you have a vehicle, you can use navigation to find the church easily. The church is located in a relatively quiet area, surrounded by wires to protect it. You can see that the door is open for most of the day. However, as in Göreme Open Air Museum, the concept of working hours does not apply to this church, so whether you can see inside or not is up to your luck. But you can inspect the outside of the church, and it is a popular spot for taking pictures, especially for wedding photos.
If you plan to visit Durmuş Kadir Church, it is best to wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven in some parts. The church is also located in an open area, so it can get quite hot during the summer months, and it is recommended to bring sunscreen and water. There are no entrance fees to visit the church, and it is open to everyone.
Overall, Durmuş Kadir Church is a fascinating historical site to visit, and it provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Cappadocia. With its elegant architecture and unique features, it is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.
