Yüksek Kilise (The High Church), built in the 19th century inside the Byzantine chapel in Aksaray, impresses with its splendor.
The historical building, which was built as stone carved on steep rocks by the lake, 3 kilometers from the town center of Güzelyurt and also known as the “Kızlar (Girls) Monastery”, attracts attention because it was located on the holy pilgrimage route of Christians in the past.
Tourists visiting the High Church, which was restored by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2001 and opened to visitors in the same year, also visit the water cistern and the dovecote.
Güzelyurt District Governor Nurullah Cemil Erciyas reminded that the district is the eastern entrance gate of the Cappadocia region.
Explaining that the district is the cultural treasure of the Cappadocia region, Erciyas said, “Life started with Christianity in our region. With the arrival of Saint Gregorius Theologos here in the 4th century, the first ideas of the Orthodox sect found a living place in this region.”
Erciyas stated that the High Church was built as stone carved on a high hill overlooking the region.
Emphasizing that Sivrihisar Castle is located right across the building, Erciyas said:
“High Church has a communication network with Mokissos Ancient City, which was established on the skirts of Ihlara Valley and Hasan Mountain. The building is in a physical location that can see when there is a danger in this area. High Church has a wonderful structure on steep rocks by the lake. In the following years, it was also used as a women’s prison. It was opened to visitors after the restoration works started in 2001 by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. We welcome all our domestic and foreign guests.”
“Our Guests are Witnessing History”
Erciyas said that before the Covid-19 pandemic, approximately 600 thousand visitors came to see the historical and natural beauties in the district.
Stating that Güzelyurt has become an attraction point for tourists, Erciyas said, “Visitations continue, it’s currently open to visitors. Our guests who come to the High Church are witnessing history. We think that tourism activity in our region will increase after the conditions brought by Covid-19.” (AA)
