Zelve Open Air Museum

Open air museum Avanos, Nevsehir, Turkey

What to expect

Zelve Open Air Museum is an open valley with a large cave settlement, featuring 15 Byzantine-era cave churches. The area was a Byzantine-era settlement, with the oldest churches dating back to the 500s. The site has a unique landscape with picturesque cones and enchanting caves, and offers a chance to explore various cave rooms and enjoy Cappadocia's stunning terrain. The museum also features a mill, dovecotes, and a rock-cut mosque, showcasing the area's rich history and culture. Visitors can walk through the Y-shaped valley and explore the different rooms and passages, including the Fish and Grape Church, the Church of the Holy Cross, and the Direkli Church. The valley's dramatic topography and freedom for exploration make it a great destination for those interested in history, culture, and nature

Plan your family visit to the Zelve Open Air Museum with these blog insights 👇

Guide to Göreme, Turkey and Cappadocia with Kids: Zelve Open Air Museum (Zelve Açık Hava Müzesi)

This family's experience:

Activities: We explored the ancient cave churches, homes, wineries, etc

Highlights: The kids really enjoyed scrambling all over the paths and rocks and it was a great fresh air experience! ✨

Göreme, Cappadocia Day 2: Hot Air Balloon Watching, Zelve Open Air Museum, Ürgüp, and Horseback Riding

This family's experience:

Activities: We had some great hiking and climbing. It requires some scrambling, stairs, narrow routes, and mobility

Highlights: We were very happy with our choice to repeat Zelve, as we love the site and there are way fewer people ✨