Ancient City of Kilistra

The Ancient City of Kilistra is located within the boundaries of Gökyurt Village, in the Hatunsaray settlement (historically known as Lystra), district of Meram, Konya Province. Situated approximately 45–55 kilometers from the city center of Konya, Kilistra features a volcanic landscape similar to Cappadocia, a characteristic that enabled structures in the region to be carved directly into the rock.

The Ancient City of Kilistra (Republic of Türkiye, Konya Governorship)

History and Archaeological Development

The historical origins of the Ancient City of Kilistra can be traced back to the Late Bronze Age, as evidenced by ceramic finds in the region. The ancient settlement, together with the mound upon which it was built, was intensively inhabited during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. During these eras, the area gained strategic importance as a key transit point along the Royal Road (Via Sebaste).

In the Early Byzantine period, the city expanded through the creation of dwellings carved into the rock, with numerous structures constructed across five distinct levels, adapted to the natural rock formations. It has been determined that the settlements were designed with principles of secrecy and concealment: from the outside, the structures appear as natural rock formations, while their interiors have been hollowed out to form spacious rooms. Lighting and ventilation were provided through skylights and chimney openings.

The structures identified in the city are categorized as follows:

Religious structures: Churches, chapels, monasteries.

Social structures: Dwellings, cisterns, wine cellars, workshops, stables, fountains, rock-cut tombs.

Defensive structures: Watchtowers, garrisons, barracks, and shelters.

Kilistra came under Turkish rule from the 11th century onward and was incorporated into the Ottoman territories in 1466. The city’s multi-layered history is reflected in the diversity of its architectural remains.

Connection to Christianity

The Ancient City of Kilistra became a center for the spread of Christianity in the 1st century CE through the missionary activities of Saint Paul and Barnabas, who passed through the region. The ancient settlement holds significant importance in the context of early Christian missionary efforts, as Christianity rapidly spread throughout Kilistra and its surroundings during this period.

Kilistra lies between Iconium (modern Konya), where Saint Paul preached, and Pisidian Antioch (modern Yalvaç), forming a vital link between these two major centers. During one of Paul’s sermons in Lystra, Thecla, who listened from a window opposite the synagogue, was deeply moved by his message and embraced Christianity, choosing to preserve her virginity. Despite being persecuted by the Romans, she refused to renounce her faith and was thereafter venerated as a saint.

During the same period, Timothy, the son of a Jewish family that had saved and healed Thecla, became one of Paul’s closest disciples and was appointed Bishop of Ephesus. Timothy is referred to in Paul’s letters with terms such as “my child,” “my true son in the faith,” “my beloved son,” and “our brother.”

Thanks to these figures, Kilistra became a significant center in medieval Christianity. The rock-carved chapels, churches, and monasteries represent the architectural manifestations of this faith.

Architecture and Urban Structure

Kilistra possesses an urban fabric shaped in direct harmony with the natural rock formations. The settlement plan emphasizes defense and concealment. Interior spaces were illuminated through skylights and chimneys, and the entire settlement was arranged so as to be nearly indistinguishable from the surrounding rock when viewed from the outside. The structures have remained largely intact and are still accessible to visitors today.

The Ancient City of Kilistra (Republic of Türkiye, Konya Governorship)

Relationship Between Kilistra and Lystra

Kilistra is located approximately 15 kilometers from Lystra (modern Hatunsaray), and both settlements shared similar cultural and religious influences during the Roman period. Lystra was one of five centers granted the status of a military colony by Emperor Augustus, and due to its strategic importance, it maintained historical and geographical proximity to Kilistra.

Location on the Royal Road

The Ancient City of Kilistra lies along the historical Royal Road (Via Sebaste), placing it at the intersection of military, commercial, and religious transit routes. Today, visitors reach the ancient city by following this historic road, which still preserves its original stone paving, coming from the direction of Hatunsaray.

Current Status and Photography

Today, the Ancient City of Kilistra is a popular archaeological site, attracting visitors due to its proximity to Konya, accessibility, and well-preserved structures. Particularly during winter months, when covered in snow, its volcanic terrain and rock-cut architecture draw the attention of photography enthusiasts. Photographers working in the region note that the winter landscapes create a natural photographic studio environment within the city.

The Ancient City of Kilistra (AA)

The Ancient City of Kilistra (Republic of Türkiye, Konya Governorship)

Current Research and Excavations

Archaeological excavations and cleaning operations at the Ancient City of Kilistra are ongoing. Efforts are being made to enhance the site’s potential for both tourism and cultural heritage. Considering its historical value, its early Christian architecture, and its strategic position along the Via Sebaste, Kilistra is clearly understood as a multi-layered and multi-period settlement.