Sakli Kilise, meaning 'Hidden Church' in Turkish, is one of Cappadocia's lesser-known cave churches, distinguished by its remarkably preserved frescoes. Unlike the more accessible churches within the Goreme Open Air Museum, Sakli Kilise offers a more intimate and adventurous exploration of Byzantine rock-cut architecture and art. Its remote location and unique access method contribute to its charm, appealing to visitors who prefer a discovery-oriented experience over a standard tourist route.
Visitors consistently praise the church's stunning wall paintings, which are often cited as being in better condition than those in some of the more frequented sites. The sense of discovery and adventure in finding the church is a recurring positive theme. Many reviewers highlight the necessity of engaging with the guardian of the nearby El Nazar Church to gain entry, often for a combined fee that includes both sites. This interaction with a local guide is frequently mentioned as a highlight, providing a more personalized experience.
To make the most of your visit, wear sturdy shoes suitable for a steep, uneven climb. The path to the church is described as challenging, involving some scrambling. It is highly recommended to visit the El Nazar Church first and inquire about access to Sakli Kilise from its guardian. This typically involves a small fee, often around 15 TL, which covers entry to both churches and guidance to the hidden one. Allow at least an hour for the combined visit, including the walk and exploration of both churches. Bringing water is advisable, especially during warmer months, as the area is exposed.
Sakli Kilise is located off the main road leading to the Goreme Open Air Museum. While there's a yellow sign pointing towards it, finding the exact path can be tricky. The most reliable way to reach it is to first go to the El Nazar Church, which is more clearly signposted from the main road. From Goreme town, you can walk to the Goreme Open Air Museum area, and then follow signs for El Nazar Church. The guardian there will provide directions or even accompany you to Sakli Kilise. Taxis or private transfers are also an option to reach the vicinity of El Nazar Church, reducing the initial walk.
A common complaint among visitors is the difficulty in finding the church independently, with some reporting unsuccessful attempts or confusion about the correct path. To mitigate this, do not rely solely on the yellow sign; instead, make your way to the El Nazar Church and speak with its guardian. Some visitors also note that parts of the church's ceiling show signs of deterioration, which is a natural consequence of its age and exposure, but the overall quality of the frescoes remains impressive.