Kizil Kilise, also known as the Red Church, is one of the oldest churches on the vast plains of the Cappadocia region of Turkey. It was built in the sixth century during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. (...)
Kizil Kilise, also known as the Red Church, is one of the oldest churches on the vast plains of the Cappadocia region of Turkey. It was built in the sixth century during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. Unlike other churches in the region carved from volcanic rock, Kizil Kilise’s structure employs traditional masonry building methods and exemplifies the high quality of craftsmanship of the area at that time. The central dome supported by an octagonal base is the most prominent architectural element of the church featuring various types of volcanic stone. Light illuminates the interior through windows located at the base of the building. Evidence of huge lintels and precisely cut granite blocks indicate that the church served as an imperial, or funerary, chapel and belonged to the family of St. Gregory of Nazianzus, a Church Father of Cappadocia. The site was also a stop for pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem.
