Mokissos, known in ancient sources also by the name "Nora," is located today within the boundaries of Helvadere town in Aksaray Province, at the foothills of Mount Hasan. Spanning an area of approximately 200 hectares, the city is situated in the southern part of the Cappadocia region, about 11 kilometers from the Ihlara Valley. Its geographical features, including its elevation and surrounding natural basalt rock formations, indicate that the settlement had a defensible and strategically advantageous position.
Ancient City of Mokissos (Nora) - Kalkınma Ajansları Genel Müdürlüğü, Ahiler Kalkınma Ajansı
Historical Background
Mokissos (Nora) is an ancient settlement located in the southern part of the Cappadocia region. Established on the slopes of Mount Hasan, the city gained significance throughout history due to its strategic location and expansive urban layout. The history of the city dates back to the Hellenistic period, and it became a regional center particularly during the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire.
The earliest archaeologically documented remains of Mokissos are pagan tombs dated to the 1st to 3rd centuries AD. Starting in the 5th century, intensive urban development took place over these burial areas, and the city significantly expanded during this period. Especially in the 5th and 6th centuries, Mokissos became one of the most densely populated cities in the region, with approximately 1,000 residential buildings constructed during this time.
Mentioned in ancient texts as Nora, the city was designated as a regional capital during the Byzantine era. Numerous churches, cisterns, and public structures found within the city provide tangible evidence of the administrative and religious organization of the period. In this context, Nora functioned not only as a residential area but also as one of the social, economic, and religious centers of Cappadocia.
The first scientific research in the area was carried out in 1990 by a German archaeological team. After a hiatus of nearly 30 years, in 2020, new research and documentation efforts were resumed under the coordination of the Aksaray Provincial Directorate of Culture and the Aksaray Museum Directorate, with scientific supervision by Associate Professor Dr. Tolga Uyar. These efforts aimed to systematically investigate the historical layers of the city.
Architectural Structures
Mokissos contains numerous structures that reflect the typical features of Late Antiquity settlements. Archaeological studies have identified approximately 1,000 residential buildings, 32 churches, and 20 cisterns. Most of the churches were built between the mid-6th and early 7th centuries. Their architectural characteristics reflect common features of Byzantine architecture. Among these churches, the best-preserved is known as the "Kemerli Kilise" (Arched Church). The buildings were generally constructed using finely cut stones and natural basalt blocks.
The streets, passageways, and roads connecting the buildings indicate a well-organized urban layout. These structures form a coherent urban plan across the settlement. The cisterns played a crucial role in water supply, especially considering the volcanic terrain, making them essential for sustaining life in the settlement.
Ancient City of Mokissos (Nora) - Aksaray Valiliği
Residential Buildings
Archaeological studies have identified approximately 1,000 residential buildings in the ancient city. Most of these structures were built during the 5th and 6th centuries and reflect both the population density and the urban planning of the settlement. The houses were constructed using basalt stone and were spread across a wide area.
Churches
A total of 32 church structures, including those still standing, have been documented in the city. Architectural analysis indicates that most of these churches were built between the mid-6th and early 7th centuries. They exhibit characteristic features of Byzantine architecture. Among them, the “Arched Church” (Kemerli Kilise) stands out as the best-preserved example.
Cisterns
Approximately 20 cisterns have been identified in the city. These structures played a critical role in water supply and storage, ensuring the sustainability of the settlement. Situated on volcanic terrain, such infrastructure was essential for effective management of natural resources.
Streets and Passageways
The network of streets and passageways connecting various structures indicates a highly developed urban layout. Houses, churches, and other buildings were interconnected through these roads, reflecting the city’s organized infrastructure.
Archaeological Findings and Documented Elements
Pagan Tombs
The earliest documented remains in the city are pagan tombs dated to the 1st–3rd centuries AD. Later phases of settlement were established atop these burial grounds starting from the 5th century.
Monumental Tombs
Monumental Roman tombs constructed from finely cut stone demonstrate the architectural richness of the city during the Late Roman period.
Architectural Documentation
Recent studies have completed the mapping and architectural documentation of these structures. Environmental planning and visitor guidance systems (signposts and walking paths) have also been established to improve accessibility for tourism.
Mokissos (Nora) Ancient City is one of the most expansive and well-preserved settlements in the Cappadocia region. Spanning a historical timeline from the Hellenistic period to the Eastern Roman Empire, the city is distinguished by its residential architecture, religious buildings, and infrastructure systems. Archaeological evidence indicates that Mokissos was not only densely populated but also functioned as a regional administrative center. Ongoing excavation and conservation efforts aim to reveal the historical value of the city and ensure the transmission of this cultural heritage to future generations.
