Dağpazarı Church

Dağ Pazarı Kilisesi is located within the ancient city of Corapissus, in the Mut district of Mersin Province, in the Mediterranean Region. This ancient settlement lies along the historical route extending from Karaman to Silifke, granting it significant historical and strategic importance. The church, dated to the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) period, was constructed in 476 AD in honor of Emperor Zeno’s second accession to the throne.

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The structure was built along an east-west axis and follows a three-aisle basilical plan. The central nave is separated from the side aisles by rows of arches. The apse is semicircular in plan and covered by a half-dome. Supporting columns are positioned on either side of the apse. These columns are adorned with capitals characteristic of the Corinthian order, featuring basket-shaped, upward-flaring tops. The capitals are decorated with motifs of cantaloupe or acanthus leaves.

^{Dağ Pazarı Kilisesi (}Türkiye Culture Portal⁾

It is known that the Dağ Pazarı Kilisesi was built in 476 AD by Emperor Zeno to commemorate his second ascension to the imperial throne. The western facade of the church has been completely destroyed, while the apse and some walls have survived to the present day. A paved opening made of regular stones is located at the front of the structure. To the south of the city, in the valley, lies a necropolis consisting of rock-cut tombs, as well as cisterns used for collecting rainwater, which are today regarded as cold storage facilities.

Although the overall structure of the building is largely ruined, it still contains remains that provide valuable information about Byzantine architecture and decorative traditions. In particular, the apse enables a clear understanding of the building’s original plan and form.