Hotels near Selime Monastery

Selime Monastery is the largest religious cave complex in Cappadocia, often described as the regional Star Wars set because the rock-cut domes and corridors inspired Tatooine moisture farms in the 1977 film. Built between the 8th and 9th centuries, the monastery housed up to 1,000 monks and contains a basilica with three apses, a kitchen with carved chimneys, stables for camels (caravan stops on the Silk Road branch), and a refectory long enough for 50 diners. The climb up the stone gully to the upper chapel involves a moderate scramble and a low overhang; closed-toe shoes help. Entry is TRY 250 in 2026. Most visitors arrive at the end of the Green Tour and stay 60 to 75 minutes. The hilltop terrace beside the monastery offers a viewpoint over the Selime fairy chimneys and the village below.

Pro Tip: The Green Tour rushes Selime in 45 minutes. Self-drive instead and time your visit for 16:30, when the western sandstone glows orange and tour groups have left.