The last walk I’m writing about this month is our
trek through the gorgeous Ihlara Gorge in Cappadocia, Turkey.
Although it wasn’t a strenuous walk, it required a descent
of 360 steps to make our way into the valley. This beautiful gorge was formed by the Melendez River
carving its way through the volcanic rock in central Turkey.
We spent about four hours walking through the valley. Our time in Cappadocia was chilly, but
that day was warm enough to walk without our coats. It was early spring, and the valley was just beginning to
come to life.
So much of Cappadocia was barren, but the gorge was fertile and full of vegetation. The trees were just beginning to bud. Both sides of the path were bordered with grass and wild flowers.
The previous week had been mild, and the cherry blossoms had
just begun to bloom.
The walk was culturally significant, too. The Ihlara Gorge was the hiding place for early Christians fleeing
their persecutors because of the large number of caves that could be used for
refuge. Some of these caves were
among the earliest Christian churches in the area. The gorge was home to over 100 churches.
Just next to the entrance to the
valley, Agacalti Kilise (Church Under the Tree) is thought to have been used
for worship in the 10th or 11th century.
Its stunning frescoes depict Daniel in the Lions’ Den and the visit of
the Magi, among other Biblical scenes.
Tea and cookies with our
guide.
18 comments:
Beautiful. These are the beautiful places around the world. Awesome that you were able to experience it.
Velva
Beautiful! I love hearing about all of your travels. I was looking at a map of Afghanistan the other day and forgot how close Turkey is to it. Its interesting because some of your pics look like they could be in North America and some definitely look like they are in a place near the gray rocky landscape of Afghanistan.
What a stunning walk!! Those tress are particularly lovely.
You have been to so many incredibly beautiful places - this world of ours is spectacular! :)
What fantastic views on your walk!
Beautiful photos and descriptions! Turkey's Ihlara Gorge is completely new to me, so it was fascinating read. And ah, spring...it seems to far away right now.
Spectacular Beth; that road, the gorge, your memories; I can only imagine how majestic it must be.
Rita
Lovely, Beth. How fortunate we are to have such a well traveled blogger as a friend! I learn so much when I visit you!
Beautiful photos, Beth.
Fabulous picture of the frescoes and your trip sounds like it was a terrific experience!
Is there a country you haven't been to, Beth????? :D
Soon, I'm going to be expecting recipes on your blog from all the places you've visited. ;)
I love taking these "trips" with you Beth. Thanks for sharing :)
How fascinating. It does look gorgeous and I bet it was interesting exploring.
Hi Beth! Thanks for visiting my blog so I could discover yours. It's so great to read about other people's fantastic international travels because it allows me to live vicariously while sitting at my desk :) I look forward to reading more about your baking and trips.
Tea and cookies after a nice walk sounds lovely! It must have been so pretty to see the cherry blossoms. Another great walk!
Beth, Your photos are lovely! A place I always wanted to visit!
We've had so much rain this week, your walk looks so good to me!
I wish we could have done more exploring in central Turkey- hopefully next time;-) Your photos are lovely and always inspiring;-)
I love your tea party set up with the tree trunk table and stools! :) One of my uncles was born in Turkey...my grandparents were en route from Armenia on their trek to the U.S.
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