Swords Church
Located in Swords Valley, this church takes its name from sword motifs on its walls and is an important structure of the early Byzantine period.
Valley Church
The Swords Church is one of the important rock churches hidden in the valleys of Goreme. The sword-shaped cross motifs on the walls are the source of the church's name. These motifs, connected to depictions of warrior saints, demonstrate the importance of the military saint cult in the region.
The church has frescoes from the 9th-10th century. Scenes in archaic style reflect Cappadocia's early Byzantine painting tradition.
Related Churches
El Nazar Church
Carved into a fairy chimney in Goreme Valley, El Nazar Church is one of the oldest churches in Cappadocia, dating to the 7th century.
Buckle Church
The largest and most impressive rock church in Goreme, the Buckle Church is the most important Byzantine structure in Cappadocia with its indigo blue frescoes and spacious interior.
Hidden Church
Accidentally discovered in 1957, the Hidden Church is an 11th-century structure with frescoes preserved thanks to having remained hidden for a long time.