Duration
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Make the best use of your time in Cappadocia with a visit to Zelve Open Air Museum, renowned for its cave settlements and monastic community.
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Wander through the three valleys on Aktepe's northern slopes, each filled with ancient churches, monasteries, and striking natural formations.
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Visit iconic rock-cut churches, including Balıklı, Üzümlü, Direkli, and the Church of the Holy Cross, each showcasing early Christian architecture.
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Marvel at the fairy chimneys in Paşabağı, also known as the Valley of the Priests, featuring a chapel dedicated to St. Simeon.
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Don't forget to admire the intricately carved pigeon houses, decorated with primitive art and once used for communication and agriculture.
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- Entry ticket to Zelve Open Air Museum
- Hotel transfers
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Immerse yourself in the Y-shaped valleys of Cappadocia at Zelve Open Air Museum, where Byzantine-era churches are carved into soft volcanic rock.
Getting started
Present your ticket at the entrance for validation. After a brief security check, you are free to explore Zelve Open Air Museum and its valleys at your own pace.
What to expect
Zelve Open Air Museum
The museum was once a thriving Christian settlement from the 9th to 13th centuries, with its three valleys showcasing a mix of natural rock formations, historic cave dwellings, and monastic structures.
Features
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Cave neighborhoods: Stroll through cliffside homes carved directly into the rock, providing insight into daily life in the troglodyte village.
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Chapel-adorned fairy chimneys: Admire the multi-headed formations in Paşabağı, where chapels reflect early Christian devotion.
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Ancient churches: Explore hidden churches tucked into the cliffs, each preserving centuries-old frescoes and Christian symbols.
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Monastic quarters: Discover secluded living spaces and chapels used by monks, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life of the region.
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Ornamental pigeon houses: Observe intricately carved pigeon homes used for farming and communication, scattered across the valleys.
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What to bring
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A valid photo ID matching the name on your booking, as it may be required at pickup
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A light jacket or sweater, since mornings in Cappadocia can be cool
What’s not allowed
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Drones, alcohol, and drugs are strictly forbidden
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Large bags, suitcases, or oversized luggage are not allowed inside the museum
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Smoking is prohibited throughout the experience
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Pets are not permitted
Accessibility
- Zelve Open-Air Museum has limited wheelchair accessibility at the entrance, as much of the site features rugged terrain and uneven paths.
Additional information
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Your entry tickets will be sent to you the day before your visit
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The museum is open daily from 8am to 7pm
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This experience is non-refundable
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This is a self-guided experience, with no guide or transfers included
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Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption point.
Ticket redemption point
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Show your ticket at Zelve Open Air Museum.
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Address: Aydınlı Mahallesi, Yavuz Sk. No:1 No:1, 50180 Aktepe/Avanos/Nevşehir, Türkiye.
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