Türkiye’s Gumusler Monastery shines with unique ‘Smiling Virgin Mary’ fresco

In the Gumusler district of Nigde, Gumusler Monastery stands out with its “Smiling Virgin Mary” fresco.

This historical site is renowned not only for its impressive wall paintings but also for its unique architectural and historical significance.

Dating back to the eighth to 12th centuries, Gumusler Monastery features rock-carved structures, including monk quarters, a kitchen, storage jars, a two-story underground city, and secret compartments for emergencies.

The most notable feature of the monastery is the fresco of the “Smiling Virgin Mary,” found on the church walls. This fresco, the only example of its kind in Anatolia, depicts scenes such as the annunciation of Christ’s birth, the washing of Christ by his nurses, the presentation of gifts to Christ, and the introduction of Christ to saints by the Virgin Mary.

Governor Cahit Celik highlighted the monastery’s uniqueness.

“Gumusler Monastery has a courtyard with a 15-meter diameter and a 14-meter height, making it the only one of its kind in the region. While other monastery churches in Cappadocia typically include kitchens and dining halls, Gumusler Monastery is a single structure with a square shape and open courtyard,” he said.

Celik pointed out that the northern part of the monastery houses a church with the exclusive “Smiling Virgin Mary” fresco, adding: “There is also a 1.5-kilometer-long settlement area outside the monastery. In this regard, Nigde is a significant city in the Cappadocia region. Gumusler Monastery is one of the most important tourist attractions in our province.”

The fresco, restored by English restorer Michael Gough in 1963, offers visitors a unique experience.

Celik emphasized the rarity of the “Smiling Virgin Mary” figure and encouraged everyone to explore this exceptional historical site.