Selime Cathedral

"The basilica church, often labeled as the "Cathedral," in Selime's upper courtyard is one of the largest and most complex rock-cut churches in Cappadocia. Dating back to the early 900s, based on the remaining wall paintings, this church exemplifies advanced architectural planning and craftsmanship. It follows a basilica-style layout, with two arcades dividing the church into three aisles. The pillars alternate between square piers and round columns, each featuring monumental bases and capitals. One of the unique architectural highlights is how the church was positioned to allow a window to illuminate two apses, adding a sophisticated element to the design. The apse is particularly notable, recessed back and raised a step above the narthex platform. It is subdivided into three registers by cornices, with the upper conch featuring a depiction of Christ in Glory, surrounded by the heavenly hosts. The middle section portrays apostles flanking an arched window, while the bottom register houses a synthronon bench, where church leaders would have sat among the Church Fathers. Although the paintings in the central aisle are mostly eroded, faint outlines remain of scenes from the lives of Jesus and Mary. Unique features, such as the throne chair cut into a pillar and alternating pillar designs, highlight the influence of tenth-century Georgian church architecture. Above the church's entrance is a large donor panel, depicting the Virgin Mary with outstretched hands blessing aristocratic patrons. The narthex also contains a painted inscription above a niched grave, delivering a Greek funerary poem warning about the dangers of wealth. Nearby, a fairy chimney features unrelated living spaces, with ornately carved rooms, one of which includes bird-like creatures carved on a rear lunette. This church, along with its neighboring structures, highlights the blend of religious function and residential living in Selime."

"A cave cathedral with lots to explore!"