ABOUT SELIME CATHEDRAL

Selime Cathedral is a magnificent architectural masterpiece located in the town of Aksaray in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. The cathedral, which dates back to the 8th century, is carved out of a massive rock formation and is considered one of the largest and most impressive examples of rock-cut architecture in the region.

The cathedral is believed to have been built by the Byzantines during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, who ruled from 527 to 565 AD. The cathedral was originally used as a place of worship for the early Christian communities that lived in the Cappadocia region. The cathedral was later abandoned and fell into disrepair, but was rediscovered in the 20th century and has since been restored to its former glory.

One of the most striking features of Selime Cathedral is its size. The cathedral is approximately 100 meters long, 30 meters wide, and 25 meters high, making it one of the largest rock-cut structures in the world. The cathedral is also notable for its intricate carvings and frescoes, which adorn the walls and ceilings of the interior. The frescoes depict scenes from the Bible, including the life of Jesus, as well as images of early Christian saints and martyrs.

The cathedral is divided into three main sections: the narthex, the nave, and the apse. The narthex is the entrance to the cathedral and was likely used as a gathering place for the faithful before and after services. The nave is the main body of the cathedral and was used for the celebration of the Eucharist. The apse is the semicircular area at the end of the nave and was used for the altar and the bishop's throne.

In conclusion, Selime Cathedral is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that showcases the skill and ingenuity of the Byzantine builders who created it. The cathedral's size, intricate carvings and frescoes make it a truly unique and impressive site that is well worth visiting. The cathedral also serves as an important reminder of the early Christian communities that lived in the Cappadocia region and the challenges they faced.