El Nazar Church is an important early Christian structure carved into a rock formation located east of Göreme town and west of the Göreme Open Air Museum, within the Zemi Valley in Nevşehir. The church is considered one of the distinguished examples of the characteristic rock-cut architecture of the Cappadocia region.

^{El Nazar Church(Kültür Turizm Bakanlığı)}

Architectural Features

El Nazar Church is constructed with a ‘T’-shaped free cross plan, featuring three apses and a central dome. The arms of the cross are covered with barrel vaults, and the transitions to the dome are achieved through a pendentive system. The main apse opens directly to the central space where the cross arms intersect. Graves are located in the eastern arm, and the side apses were later expanded by carving into the rock. Over time, the floor and the lower part of the main apse have been damaged.

Interior Decoration and Frescoes

The frescoes covering the interior walls of El Nazar Church depict the life of Jesus and significant scenes in Christianity in chronological order. Notable scenes include the Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, Adoration of the Magi, Flight into Egypt, Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, Visitation of Elizabeth, Baptism, Resurrection of Lazarus, Transfiguration (Metamorphosis), Entry into Jerusalem, Crucifixion, Descent into Hell (Anastasis), and Ascension. Additionally, medallions containing portraits of saints are present.

The fresco technique involved applying pigments on a thin plaster layer composed of gypsum, straw, and sand. The presence of green underdrawings and the work of two different artists indicate the variety and quality of the frescoes. Although some frescoes have suffered damage over time, most scenes have been preserved until today.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Constructed likely in the late 10th to early 11th century during the Byzantine period, El Nazar Church is an important part of Cappadocia’s religious and artistic heritage. Its architectural plan, fresco subjects, and artistic style align with Byzantine iconography and the traditions of rock-cut churches of the era.

Conservation Status

Over time, part of the floor and the lower section of the main apse have collapsed. Soot from candles, water leakage, and natural weathering have caused some damage to the frescoes. Nevertheless, El Nazar Church remains a significant example of rock-carved architecture and early Christian fresco art in Cappadocia, valued for both tourism and academic research.