Göreme Açık Hava Müzesi'nde Bulunan Azize Barbara Kilisesi

Abstract

In this study, the architecture and wall paintings of Church of St. Barbara which is located in the Göreme Open Air Museum in Nevşehir have been taken into consideration.Region of Kappadokia, often formed the eastern border of the empire through ages, had always been a part of the life of Byzantine aristocracy, military commanders and land owners which was brought along with the most crowded and most talented military units of the thema system.The presence of the Christian individuals and communities choosing to live a monastic life in the region of Göreme, Ihlara and the surrounding valleys is known. Also is known the presence of a settled and powerful Christian congregation since 5th century. Göreme Valley can be said to be a part of a more closed monastic life in which many churches, rock-cut rooms probably serving for numerous purposes and at least eleven rock-cut trapezai had existed.