Gumusler Monastery
What people say
Pedro Pereira
Available for hire
"Eski Gümüşler Monastery, also known as the "Old Silver" Monastery, is a significant Byzantine-era cave monastery located in the small town of Gümüşler, about 10 km northeast of Niğde in Turkey. Rediscovered in 1962, it was restored by archaeologists led by Michael Gough and declared a protected archaeological site in 1973. Carved from a vast expanse of rock, the monastery is one of the best-preserved and largest in the Cappadocia region. It features a central courtyard surrounded by various sections, with the main church located to the north, designed in a Greek cross plan with four aisles and notable tombs.
The church is adorned with intricate frescoes believed to date from the 7th to 11th centuries, showcasing scenes such as Christ Enthroned, the Cappadocian Fathers of the Church, and representations from Aesop's Fables—an unusual feature for Cappadocian monasteries. Different artists contributed to the frescoes, each bringing unique styles and iconography. While traditionally viewed as a monastic site, some scholars suggest that Eski Gümüşler may have served as a nobleman’s residence with a private chapel, a theory supported by the distinctive frescoes. The monastery's rich history and artistic heritage make it a captivating destination for visitors interested in Byzantine culture and art."
Liveta Greitaityte
"Just 10 kilometers northeast of the town of Niğde in southern Cappadocia, far from the region's main tourist hub, the rock-hewn monastery complex contains some of the most impressive Byzantine frescoes in Cappadocia.
The paintings date from the 11th century and include the Annunciation and the Virgin Mary with the baby Jesus, flanked by the archangels, Gabriel and Michael.
In the recently restored and opened tourism complex, you can wander through the tunnels and admire what nature and man have created.
💶 Paid admission
💡 To get to the monastery, it is most convenient to use a rented car or taxi services.
You can also inquire about the possibility of a tour of the monastery at the hotel."
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